LANSING – Representative Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard) today threw his support behind a plan that requires any hunting land sold by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to be replaced by new hunting land. The plan ensures that Michigan remains a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
"Hunting is a proud tradition that is a huge part of Michigan's economy," McDowell said. "Hunters come to our state from all parts of the nation, and their dollars go into the local restaurants, hotels and stores that support our workers and their families. We must protect this vital part of our heritage."
The plan would require that there is no net loss of state-owned hunting land in Michigan. Any public hunting land that is sold by the state would have to be replaced with an equal amount of public hunting land.
Michigan boasts 8 million acres of public hunting land, with 4.5 million acres managed by the DNR. Michigan ranks first in the nation in licensed hunters, according to the DNR.
Hunting significantly bolsters Michigan's economy by $3 billion each year, according to the DNR.
"The sport of hunting is part of what makes our state great," McDowell said. "Protecting our land also will protect our local economy. This plan ensures our hunting land will be protected for all future generations."