Michigan

Michigan may have fewer deer hunters, but venison donations to food banks are up ⋆ Michigan Advance

Published

1 year ago

November 23, 2023

Michigan may have fewer deer hunters, but venison donations to food banks are up ⋆ Michigan Advance

Despite an ongoing trend in Michigan of fewer people heading into deer blinds, the amount of venison being donated to local food banks and other charities has been steadily increasing.

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 2022 Deer Harvest Survey, the total number of hunters declined by about 4% from 537,014 in 2021 to 516,336 last year. More significantly, the number of deer that were harvested dropped 14%, from approximately 395,000 in 2021 to just 339,189 in 2022.

In and of itself, that is not much of a surprise, as deer hunting, in general, has been steadily declining in Michigan over the last several decades. While 2020 saw a small increase largely attributed to the expanded interest in outdoor activities during the first year of the COVID pandemic, the annual deer harvest still pales in comparison to the peak seen in the late 1990s, when just under 600,000 deer were taken.

What is somewhat surprising is that over that same period, Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger (MSAH) reports an inverse increase in donated deer meat.

Dean Hall is treasurer of the MSAH, an all-volunteer organization that connects hunters, wild-game processors and charities that feed individuals in need.

“Hunting license sales have indeed not enjoyed the amount of sales numbers as in past decades,” Hall told the Michigan Advance. However, he added that their tracking “shows increases in venison burger production as a result of deer donations.”

Courtesy of Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources 2022 Deer Harvest Survey

According to numbers provided by the group, while the number of deer harvested in Michigan dropped 14% from 2021 to 2022, the pounds of donated venison that were processed through their network rose by nearly 6%, from 107,012 pounds to 113,491 pounds.

In fact, while the number of deer hunters has been on the overall decline, MSAH reports a more than five-fold increase in donated venison over the past ten years, with more than 1.1 million pounds collected and donated between 1991 and 2022.

Hall said the increase in donated venison has several contributing factors.

“While sportsmen and sportswomen continue to support the MSAH mission in strength, additional deer donations come in from post season deer management efforts in the MetroPark System, city parks and townships where hunting is not allowed but deer management is a necessity, and deer management in specific counties of the State through the United States Wildlife Service,” he said.

MSAH is funded through an account in the state Treasury and promoted by the DNR as the “perfect way for hunters to share their harvest,” while they are encouraged to “offset the cost of processing, and packaging venison by making a monetary donation” when they purchase a hunting or fishing license.

According to the Michigan Wildlife Council, those monetary donations have also increased exponentially, from less than $1,000 in 2005 to approximately $100,000 in 2018.

Meanwhile, state wildlife officials say that while they encourage the continued donations by deer hunters, they also caution that only licensed processors like those utilized by MSAH should be used by those looking to purchase venison.

“Many people assume food items sold online are from licensed and inspected companies, but this is not always the case,” said Jennifer Bonsky, MDARD Food and Dairy Division acting director. “Before you buy any food, and at this time of year particularly venison, make sure the food was processed at a facility licensed by MDARD. Our staff works tirelessly to make sure businesses are following the law to keep your food safe and family healthy.”

Legally, hunters can only take their deer to an unlicensed meat processor if the venison is simply cut and wrapped, although that meat must be marked as “Not for Sale” and used for personal use/consumption by the hunter. While it can be shared with the hunter’s friends and family, it can not be resold. If further processing like grinding with added fat, sausage making, or smoking is needed, the processor must be licensed.

“The best way to tell if venison being offered for sale is being sold legally is to look at the label,” said Bonsky. “A proper label will list ingredients, weight of the product, the name, address and contact of the licensed food business, and have a best by date, if needed. You can also ask to see a copy of the seller’s food license.”

As for the long-term trend of the decline in hunting across Michigan, there are actually small signs of optimism, said Nick Buggia, chair of the Michigan Wildlife Council.

“According to statistics just released by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, hunting license sales are generally holding steady compared with recent years — even increasing among some demographics — and that bodes well for all Michiganders,” he said.

While hunting license purchases were down slightly, a .79% decrease from the 459,490 bought in 2022, the purchase of first-time hunting licenses saw a .86% increase.

There was also a 3% upward swing from 2022 in the number of hunting licenses purchased by out-of-state visitors through Oct. 31.

That bodes well for the efforts of Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger.

“Michigan hunters for decades have been donating venison to the hungry of our state,” Buggia said. “It’s just one of the ways sportsmen and sportswomen give back to their neighbors and fellow citizens.”

Courtesy of Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger

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Michigan

Michigan DNR issues winter safety reminders amid fluctuating weather

Published

2 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Press Room

Michigan DNR issues winter safety reminders amid fluctuating weather

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges outdoor enthusiasts to stay safe as fluctuating winter conditions continue across Michigan.

According to a press release issued Friday (Dec. 20), proper preparation and caution are key to avoiding accidents while enjoying activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and hiking.

Winter Safety Tips

The DNR recommends dressing in light, adjustable layers to avoid overheating or freezing. Check weather and road conditions, and carry essential equipment like ice picks, ropes, flashlights, and backup gear.

“The right gear is definitely essential to going out,” said DNR conservation officer Brandon Vacek. “I mean, you want to make sure you’re dressed in layers to that you know you can adjust accordingly.”

Further, Vacek said people should travel with a buddy, inform someone of your plans, and ensure your communication devices work in remote areas.

“That goes back to always having, you know, a plan, leaving some information with someone about where you’re going and when you’re set to return,” said Vacek.

Staying hydrated and fueled with snacks is also important, according to the news release, and if you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to stay home.

Ice and Snowmobile Precautions

Ice conditions are unpredictable, so wear a flotation device and keep ice picks accessible, advised Vacek. Furthermore, snowmobilers should ride on the right-hand side of trails, keep speeds safe, and avoid alcohol.

Riders aged 12 to 16 must obtain a Michigan-approved snowmobile safety certificate to operate without a guardian or crossroads.

Last winter, the DNR reported that there were 19 snowmobile fatalities, highlighting the importance of caution.

For more safety tips and trail updates, visit Michigan.gov/RideRight and Michigan.gov/DNR/Education/Safety-Info.

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Michigan

Washington transfer LB Khmori House sets Michigan visit

Published

10 hours ago

December 20, 2024

Press Room

Washington transfer LB Khmori House sets Michigan visit

Michigan is expanding its board at linebacker during the winter transfer portal cycle by hosting the second linebacker target of the week.

Washington rising sophomore LB Khmori House is set to visit Ann Arbor on Sunday according to his agents.

House will join Georgia linebacker Troy Bowles as linebacker visits who have been on campus this week.

Maize & Blue Review can confirm that Bowles was on campus on Thursday.

House appeared in 9 games as a freshman for the Huskies this season, recording 33 total tackles, one forced fumble and an interception.

Stick with Maize & Blue Review for more Transfer Portal coverage.

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Michigan

These 10 small mid-Michigan businesses just received nearly $200K in grants

Published

18 hours ago

December 20, 2024

Press Room

These 10 small mid-Michigan businesses just received nearly 0K in grants

SAGINAW, MI – Officials with the Great Lakes Bay Business Hub have announced the recipients of nearly $200,000 in direct grants to small businesses, and the application for the next round of grants is now open.

“After receiving over 29 competitive applications, ten small businesses have been awarded a total of $194,688.03 in funding,” reads a the Central Michigan University Research Corp. (CMURC) news release.

“This collaborative initiative, involving the Small Business Development Center, regional chambers of commerce, community and economic development organizations, and entrepreneurial service providers, are now accepting applications for the next round of grants, with a deadline of May 13.”

CMURC President and CEO Erin Strang said in a statement, “These grants are more than financial awards – they’re investments in entrepreneurs that drive positive social change, empower communities, and shape a stronger, more resilient future for generations to come.”

“By championing small business growth, we’re building the foundation for lasting regional impact.”

The recipients, representing Bay, Clare, Midland, Isabella and Saginaw counties, are:

Allegiance Home Healthcare Agency
Barney’s Bakehouse Bakery LLC
BreAna Allen Consulting LLC
Clare Family Fitness Inc.
My Angel Adult Foster Care LLC
New Beginnings Learning Center LLC (Sweet Angels Childcare)
Nor’East Outdoors LLC
Solutions Behavioral Health LLC
Tarsha Works Consulting
Unplugged Outfitters LLC

The nearly $200,000 in direct grants to these small businesses will make “significant impacts,” officials said, “with recipients using the funds to purchase equipment, expand operations, and create new jobs, fueling economic development across the region.”

“I am honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Direct to Business Grant opportunity and am grateful for the experience of working with Great Lakes Bay Business Hub, which has provided me with valuable knowledge and resources,” Iesha Johnson, owner of Allegiance Home Healthcare Agency, said in a statement.

“In response to this award, our plan is to create a positive impact in our community by promoting economic growth, creating jobs, providing training, and expanding care services to those in need. I sincerely thank GLBBH for this incredible opportunity.”

The Great Lakes Bay Business Hub (GLBBH) is a resource for business support and workspace solutions across the Great Lakes Bay Region. GLBBH aims to strengthen existing resources and deliver impactful programs and services through partnerships with key regional entities, including CMURC, Michigan Economic Development Corp., Michigan Small Business Development Center, and the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance, the release states.

At the county level, Bay County includes the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and Bay Future; Midland County is represented by the Midland Business Alliance; Isabella County encompasses the Middle Michigan Development Corp. and Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce; Saginaw County includes the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Saginaw Future; and Gratiot, Clare, Gladwin and surrounding counties have the ability to participate as well.

Businesses and entrepreneurs across the region are encouraged to apply for the next round of grant funding by May 13. For more information about the grant program and to submit an application, visit workgreatlakesbay.com.

Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free “3@3″ daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw.

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