Michigan’s DNR Wardens series: New season starts Friday

A television series showcasing the work of Michigan conservation officers returns to the Outdoor Channel on Friday with its 2026 season premiere.

“Wardens” features Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers and employees as they protect and manage the state’s natural and cultural resources. The show airs Fridays at 9 p.m. Eastern.

Friday’s season opener will feature opening-day deer season patrols, a visit to the Fennville Farm Unit during January goose season and a meeting with a local Cub Scout pack.

David Haupt, an analyst in the DNR’s Gladwin Field Office who helps coordinate production, attributed the show’s longevity to the diverse work of DNR staff.

“Many hunting and fishing programs run for a short time due to the nature of the content and the constant need for fresh storylines and locations, but I think the success of ‘Wardens’ is largely due to our officers, biologists, educators, rangers, foresters and many other DNR employees who give us a glimpse into the work they do in some of the country’s most beautiful places,” Haupt said. “We’re excited to keep offering people an inside look at what the DNR does to take care of Michigan’s fish, wildlife and outdoor spaces.”

Upcoming episodes this season will document Fourth of July activities at South Higgins Lake State Park, the reintroduction of Arctic grayling to Michigan waters and the grand opening of the DNR’s Newberry Customer Service Center, which was built from Michigan-produced mass timber.

The show chronicles conservation officers enforcing hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation regulations while educating the public about safe and responsible outdoor activities.

Michigan-based Wolf Creek Productions films and produces the series at locations throughout the state. The show has aired since 2011.

Michigan conservation officers are fully commissioned state peace officers who handle natural resources protection, recreational safety, general law enforcement and lifesaving operations.

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