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Western Upper Peninsula Citizen Advisory Council DNR Division Reports Date of Production: November 2014 This documentation is provided by Michigan DNR staff as a supplement to verbal reports that will be distributed to the Western UPCAC at the December 1, 2014 meeting in Iron Mountain, MI.

Upper Peninsula Regional Coordinator: Stacy Welling Haughey Upcoming Events/Public Outreach Public Meetings December 3 Wildlife Division Sportsman’s Coalition Meeting – DNR Marquette Office, 6:00pm December 4 Wildlife Division Sportsman’s Coalition Meeting – Great Lake Sportsmen’s Club, Escanaba,

6:00pm December 4 Eastern U.P. Citizen Advisory Council Meeting, Comfort Inn, Newberry December 11 Natural Resource Commission Meeting, Lansing State Park & State Sponsored Activities December 6 Michigan Iron Industry Museum – Snowshoe Lacing Workshop December 27 Porkies – Lantern Lit Ski & Snowshoe Trail December 31 Porkies – Shoe Year’s Hike January 3 Porkies – Lantern Lit Ski & Snowshoe Trail & Guided Snowshoe Hike January 10 Muskallonge Lake State Park - 16th Annual Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race January 10 Porkies – Lantern Lit Ski & Snowshoe Trail & Guided Snowshoe Hike January 16 Van Riper State Park – Lighted Snowshoe Trail January 17 Porkies – Lantern Lit Ski & Snowshoe Trail & Guided Snowshoe Hike January 24 Porkies – Lantern Lit Ski & Snowshoe Trail & Guided Snowshoe Hike January 31 Porkies – Lantern Lit Ski & Snowshoe Trail & Guided Snowshoe Hike

UP Recreation Events November 27 Houghton Turkey Trot, www.keweenaw.com November 27 Marquette Turkey Trot, http://www.active.com/marquette-mi/running/distance-running-

races/turkey-trot-2014 November 27 Ishpeming Ishpeturkey Trot for Hunger, www.ishpeturkey.com November 27 Dickinson County Turkey Trot, Quinnesec, www.facebook.com/dickinsoncountyrunning PRESS RELEASE October 15, 2014 Contact: Bill O’Neill, 517-284-5876 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815 DNR reviewing Graymont's revised land transaction application for public land in Mackinac County The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has received a revised land transaction application from Graymont, Inc., proposing development of a limestone mine and limestone processing facility in northern Mackinac County near the town of Rexton.

Graymont Land Transaction Update

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In comparison to the earlier Graymont proposal, the revised application significantly reduces the amount of public land the company would purchase. In addition, the application gives for the first time a proposed valuation for the limestone to be mined. Under the application, Graymont would pay the state 18.75 cents for each ton of extracted limestone. Those royalties would be deposited into the State Parks Endowment Fund. The entire revised proposal can be found on the DNR website. “The DNR will thoroughly review the revised application for environmental, legal and social impacts,” said Bill O’Neill, chief of the DNR’s Forest Resources Division. “As this review entails much of the same acreage originally proposed for acquisition, the total review time will be less than the first review. The review will still include each of the resource-managing divisions within the DNR, including Forest Resources, Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks and Recreation.” A review of the application also will be conducted by the DNR's Minerals Management Section. The revised proposal – which alters an application first received by the DNR in November 2013 – seeks to acquire limestone mining privileges on approximately 10,357 acres of state-owned land. The company proposes to obtain an easement for surface use on a planned 7,256-acre underground mining location, land it had previously sought to purchase. In addition, the company is proposing to directly acquire the state-owned mineral rights for the underground mine. The company proposes to directly purchase the surface of 1,005 acres, and acquire an additional 1,630 acres of land surface through exchanges, by which it would offer other property for public ownership in exchange for the acquired acreage. The proposed exchanged lands would provide immediate replacement of public property of equal or greater value. Part of the proposed land exchange would include an acquisition of 801 acres of state land as a buffer around a proposed limestone processing facility. The revised proposal also includes a request to obtain an easement for a transportation corridor for mining products. Proceeds from the direct sale of lands would be available for the purchase of additional public land. Graymont has indicated that public access would be permitted to continue on lands it proposes to acquire, except where active mining or processing is occurring. The DNR would continue to manage the surface of the proposed underground mine location for recreational, environmental and economic values, including logging. The proposal includes the ability for Graymont to designate “exclusive use” areas in the surface easement area for locations that are needed for mining infrastructure such as vent shafts, conveyors, etc. “We will undertake a detailed review of the revised application,” said O’Neill. “Feedback from the public remains a critical component of the review process and will be taken into consideration before any decisions are made.” As a result of this review, staff will make a recommendation to DNR Director Keith Creagh, who has the authority to make a final decision on the proposal. Director Creagh will announce his decision at a future Natural Resources Commission meeting, after public review. There are multiple ways people can provide comments about the proposal. The public will have an opportunity to make comments on the revised application at an upcoming Natural Resources Commission meeting. Additionally, the DNR will host a public meeting to discuss the revised proposal and recommendation prior to the director's decision. The DNR continues to maintain an email address for the public to comment. Interested parties may send comments to DNR-GraymontProposalComments@michigan.gov. Mailed comments can be sent to the Roscommon Customer Service Center, Attn. Kerry Wieber, 8717 N. Roscommon Road, Roscommon, MI 48653. Comments will be accepted until a final decision is made. A date, time and location have not yet been determined for the public meeting. An additional press release will announce the meeting information once confirmed. For a full review of all information regarding this proposal, visit the website at: www.michigan.gov/graymontproposal and http://rextonproject.com. AGENDA NRC Marketing, Partnership, Youth Outreach and Outreach Advisory Committee 1. Update on Hunting, Fishing, Camping and Recreation Passport Customer Data 2. Youth Conservation Council

November 2014 Natural Resources Commission Meeting

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3. Pure Michigan Fishing 4. Public Comments NRC Committee of the Whole 1. Director’s Report

a. Silver Lake State Park Voucher Reservations b. DNR Scorecard Review c. Results on Kalamazoo River eDNA Sampling d. Request for Proposal on Invasive Species Grants e. Process for Wolf Plan Update f. Deer Management Assistance Permit Pilot Program Update g. Forestry Updates h. Preliminary Update on October 29 Oil & Gas Lease Auction i. Island Lake Minerals Auction Update j. Graymont Update k. National Wild Turkey Federation Partner Presentation-Turkey Patch

2. Legislative Report 3. Partners in Conservation Award: Frank Mortl Public Appearances Before the NRC NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION ACTION 1. Approval of Minutes: October 9, 2014 Natural Resources Commission meeting 2. Salvage Regulations for Game Killed by Collision with a Motor Vehicle, Wildlife Conservation Order

Amendment No. 16 of 2014 3. Elk Management Unit Technical Change, Wildlife Conservation Order Amendment No. 17 of 2014 DIRECTOR’S ACTION 1. Prohibited and Restricted Aquatic Invasive Species, Invasive Species Order Amendment No. 1 of 2014 2. Designated Trout Streams for Michigan, Fisheries Order No. 210.15 3. Statewide Trout, Salmon, Whitefish, Lake Herring, and Smelt Regulations, Fisheries Order No. 200.15 4. Land Transactions – No U.P. Specific Transactions This Month Natural Resources Commission Meeting Recap from the November 6, 2014 NRC Meeting from Ed Golder, Public Information Officer: The Natural Resources Commission met in Lansing today. The commission lacked a quorum, so items on the agenda for commission action today had to be postponed until the December meeting. However, several actions were taken by Director Keith Creagh. The director: Approved statewide trout, salmon, whitefish, lake herring, and smelt regulations. This action added three streams to a study evaluating brook trout bag limits in the Upper Peninsula. A total of eight streams will now be evaluated in the U.P. to better understand the social and biological effects of a 10-brook-trout bag limit over the next several years. Data gathered from anglers on these streams include creel surveys, post card surveys and Internet based surveys. The DNR will survey these streams to measure any effects to the fish population from the increased bag limit. Made changes to Michigan’s Designated Trout Streams. This order removes Sheldon Creek and its tributaries in Cass and Van Buren counties from trout stream designation because water temperatures have increased in this creek system and there are no longer trout present. However, recent surveys conducted on Beaver Tail

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Creek in Chippewa County and Cable's and Iron Ore creeks on Beaver Island in Charlevoix County indicate good trout populations. Those streams have been added as designated trout streams. Added species to Michigan’s list of aquatic invasive species. In 2013 the Council of Great Lakes Governors and Premiers agreed to prohibit 16 "least wanted" species in their respective jurisdictions. Nine of the sixteen are already prohibited in Michigan. The Fisheries Order approved today by the director will list six of these "least wanted" fish species as prohibited. The last "least wanted" species is a plant. The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development has authority for listing plant species as prohibited and plans to take up the matter in January. Additionally, this order will add red swamp crayfish -- a popular food item from the south – to the list of prohibited species. Red swamp crayfish have invaded several other states outside of their home range and have wreaked havoc on native crayfish populations. The order will modify the listing of rusty crayfish from a prohibited to a restricted species. Rusty crayfish are invasive, but they are not considered widespread. Crayfish trapping is a popular activity in Michigan and modifying the listing of rusty crayfish from prohibited to restrictive will allow the public to help remove an AIS while enjoying some table fare. In addition, the director approved five land transactions. The day's meeting began with the Marketing, Partnership, Youth Outreach and Outreach Advisory Committee. The committee saw a run-down of hunting, fishing, camping and recreation passport data. Fishing license sales are down about 5 percent compared to the same point last year and hunting licenses sales are down about 2 percent. This is still better than the 7 percent resistance the department expected as a result of the change in license costs. The number of people buying licenses online has increased. Recreation Passport sales for the past fiscal year reached 28.5 percent of registered vehicles, slightly better than the 28 percent of registered vehicles for which the Parks Division had budgeted. Lodging reservation nights at state parks are down 5.57 percent. Snowmobile permits for September and October are up this year compared to the same time period for the last two years. ORV trail permits are exceeding expectations under the new permit structure inaugurated this year. Ray Rustem of Marketing reported to the commission on the Youth Conservation Council, formed to encourage the participation of young people in the outdoors. Because young people involved in the group are so dispersed throughout the state -- and so involved in other activities in their daily lives -- gathering them for regular meetings has proved to be a challenge. To address that issue, Ray said, the department will change the focus of this group, moving it from a council kind of structure to an academy-style program. Kelly Wolgamott of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation told the committee about the Pure Michigan Fishing campaign. The campaign has managed to increase the number of e-license fishing sales and resulted in some great media for the department. The partnership between the DNR and MEDC will continue. The Marketing and Outreach Division is working with MEDC on a 2015 hunting and fishing campaign. During the director’s report before the Committee of the Whole, John Cherry of the Executive Division reported to the Commission on the Department Scorecard, which tracks the department's progress on specific goals Ron Olson, chief of the Parks and Recreation Division and Charlotte Kiefer of Parks talked about the development of a new voucher reservation system at Silver Lake State Park. The department is creating an alternative to the current process of having off-road vehicle users sitting in line for long periods of time to get on the dunes. The plan is to move to an online and call-in system -- similar to the current camping reservation system -- to provide better customer service. Ron also informed the commission about parcels of land the department recently acquired near Milliken State Park and Harbor and the Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit to enhance public recreation in the area. Fisheries Chief Jim Dexter informed the commission about the recent results from an additional round of environmental DNA testing on the Kalamazoo River. The additional testing followed an early October announcement of a single positive eDNA result on the river for silver carp, a species of Asian carp. The additional round of sampling turned up no additional positive results for Asian carp eDNA samples. The results

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from the additional sampling are welcome, but the department will continue to be vigilant on the Kalamazoo, Jim said, conducting additional sampling in the spring. Sue Tangora of Wildlife spoke about the recent request for proposals issued for invasive species grants. As provided for in this year’s budget, the DNR, together with the departments of Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Rural Development, will issue a minimum of $3.6 million in grants to detect, prevent, manage and eradicate invasive species on the ground and in the water. Grant applications are due Dec. 5. Brent Rudolph of Wildlife talked about the department’s Deer Management Assistance Permit Pilot Program. Adam Bump of Wildlife informed the commission about an update that is underway of the department's 2008 Wolf Management Plan. Adam said there will not be mayor revisions to the plan, but the process will update information on the biology of wolves and evaluate how the department has done in implementing the plan. The proposed revision should be available for approval by the director and the commission in March of next year. Forest Resources Division Chief Bill O'Neill reported to the commission on timber sales. The department this year prepared 62,000 acres of state-managed public forest land for timber sale, the second highest acreage prepared since 2000. This was in keeping with what the Timber Advisory Council identified as a sustainable number of acres for harvest. Revenue from timber sales this fiscal year totaled more than $46 million, compared to $38 million in timber sales for the immediate past fiscal year. A recent Michigan State University study values Michigan’s forest products industry, previously estimated at $14 billion annually, at about $16 billion annually. The goal of the department is to help the state’s forest products industry reach $20 billion over five years. Mary Uptigrove of Minerals Management talked about the department’s Oct. 29 Oil and Gas Lease Auction. The department leased nearly 153,000 acres, with more than $2.9 million raised. Steve Sutton from Real Estate talked about a revised proposal from Graymont, Inc., for limestone mining on acreage in northern Mackinac County near the Upper Peninsula community of Rexton. In comparison to an earlier Graymont proposal, the revised application significantly reduces the amount of public land the company proposes to purchase. In addition, the application gives for the first time a proposed valuation for the limestone to be mined. Under the application, Graymont would pay the state 18.75 cents for each ton of extracted limestone. Royalties from the mining would be deposited into the State Parks Endowment Fund. The revised application will go through a field review and go before the department’s Land Exchange Review Committee. The department will hold a public meeting in the Rexton Area and will eventually present a recommendation to the director. Al Stewart of Wildlife and Tony Snyder, president of the Michigan State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, recognized the 2014 turkey patch design winner: Phoebe Talaga of Lake Orion High School. Legislative Liaison Trevor VanDyke updated the commission on legislation affecting the department. Trevor noted that two ballot referendums related to wolf hunting were defeated Tuesday. Trevor also noted that a citizen initiated law, the Scientific Fish & Wildlife Conservation Act, will take effect in March or April of next year, 90 days after the close of the current legislative session. The act gives the NRC the authority to name game species; appropriates $1 million for the control of aquatic invasive species, including Asian carp; and gives the NRC exclusive authority to regulate the taking of sport fish. The department and commission presented a Partners in Conservation award to Frank Mortl, immediate past president of the Michigan Oil and Gas Association. Frank, who served at MOGA for 43 years, was instrumental in the formation of the Natural Resources Trust Fund in the 1970s. Those are the highlights of today’s briefer-than-usual meeting. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information.

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HB 5141 – Provides for a Transfer of State-Owned Property to Kent County – Rep. Peter MacGregor This bill seeks to authorize the Department of Natural Resources to convey property located in Plainfield Township to Kent County.

• This bill is currently before the full Senate. • The Administration supports this legislation.

Proposal 14 -1 – A Referendum of Public Act 520 of 2012, Establishing a Hunting Season for Wolves and Authorizing Annual Wolf Hunting Seasons This referendum allowed Michigan citizens to vote on whether Public Act 520 of 2012 would remain in effect. The November 4, 2014, vote resulted in a defeat of Proposal 1. Proposal 14 -2 – A Referendum of Public Act 21 of 2013, Granting the Natural Resources Commission the Power to Designate Wolves and Certain Other Animals as Game Without Legislative Action This referendum allowed Michigan citizens to vote on whether Public Act 21 of 2013 would remain in effect. The November 4, 2014, vote resulted in a defeat of Proposal 2. If you would like to learn more about these and other bills, you can access the Michigan Legislature website at www.legislature.mi.gov. Wildlife Division: Terry Minzey, Wildlife Supervisor (prepared by Monica Joseph, Wildlife Biologist) 2014 Bear Season: Since the October 26th closure of this year’s bear season, wildlife personnel have been collecting

harvest data from bear registration stations and compiling it for analysis. The 2015 bear season will be the first year in our next 2-year regulation cycle. Analysis of harvest data, the bear tetracycline survey results and a new population model will aid in making the 2015-2016 harvest quota recommendations.

2014 Grouse and Woodcock Seasons: Although it is early to estimate the harvest results of this year’s grouse season, reports from bird hunters have been favorable, particularly in the south central Upper Peninsula. Hunters have reported flush rates similar to those they experienced during the 2013 season. Significant use of newly developed grouse enhanced management systems (GEMS), by upland bird hunters, was evident during the early grouse season. Planned habitat improvements on existing GEMS and the addition of 6 more Upper Peninsula GEM sites, in 2015, will make the U.P. an even more popular destination for upland bird hunters from across the country.

Personnel Update: Kevin Swanson has been named Michigan’s new Bear and Wolf Specialist. This position was

made possible by the hunting license restructuring and “More Bang for Your Buck” initiative. He will have statewide responsibilities for bears and wolves and will be housed in Marquette DNR office.

November Referendum Proposals Regarding the Future of Wolf Hunting in Michigan: On November 4th, voters

will have 2 referendums on the ballot on which to cast their vote. Each is described below:

Proposal 14-1: (Public Act 520) This proposal is tied to legislation that declared wolves as a game species. • A YES vote would uphold the legislature’s decision to add wolves to the list of game species in Michigan. • A NO vote would repeal this legislation and remove wolves from the list of game species (again, the results are

only effective until spring 2015). Proposal 14-2: (Public Act 21) This proposal is tied to legislation that gave the Natural Resources Commission the authority to declare game species and establish the first open season for a game species (the Legislature would retain and share this authority with the NRC). • A YES vote would uphold the legislature’s decision to share this authority with the NRC.

November 2014 Legislative Update - Trevor VanDyke , Director, Legislative & Legal Affairs Office

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• A NO vote would repeal this legislation and return sole authority to declare game species to the state Legislature (again, effective only until spring 2015).

National Forest Wildlife Management

• A cooperative wildlife biologist position has been created on the Ottawa National Forest to inventory aspen stands and prepare an increased acreage for harvest. This 2-year position is funded by the Ottawa Forest, NWTF, RGS, and DNR.

• The Ottawa Forest provided a grant to DNR WLD the past 2 years to enhance habitat conditions for a variety of migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wetland associated species on the Baraga Plains and Sturgeon River Sloughs State Wildlife Management Areas.

• The Ottawa Forest has created a “Grouse Enhanced Management System” (GEM) site to provide high quality hunting opportunity for grouse and woodcock. They are considering the addition of 1-2 more sites. The Hiawatha Forest is also considering a GEM area.

• Both the Ottawa and Hiawatha National Forests are participating in the newly-reformed “Wildlife Habitat Workgroup” which is focusing on management of deer winter range.

Education Programs: Wildlife staff has been providing educational talks to schools, boy and girl scouts, and other

civic groups, in the Escanaba area. Examples of these presentations include: introducing elementary students to the types of wildlife found in the Upper Peninsula, teaching deer aging techniques to high school students, and exploring animal habitats with boy and girl scout troops.

Infrastructure Repairs: Wildlife staff from the Escanaba Field Office repaired the boardwalk at Peterson Pond, in

Menominee County. The boardwalk provides public access to the Peterson Pond along with wildlife viewing and recreational opportunities.

2014 Deer Season Forecast: As a result of 2 consecutive, difficult winters, deer numbers are down across most of

the Upper Peninsula. Spring fawn recruitment from 2012, 2013 and 2014 was significantly impacted, as a result. Hunters should anticipate seeing fewer deer, particularly fawns, yearlings and 2 year olds. To allow deer numbers to rebound, no public land antlerless permits were issued across the UP and private land licenses were significantly reduced and will only be available in 3 southern deer management units (DMUs). Once again, we are encouraging hunters to participate in the 2014 Deer Camp Survey.

Forest Resources Division: Jeff Stampfly, WUP District Supervisor (prepared by John Hamel, Inventory Planning Specialist) The 2016 Year of Entry (YOE) inventory information for the Western Upper Peninsula (WUP) Forest Management

Units (FMUs) is posted to the internet. All Open houses and Compartment reviews have been completed as of November 7th. Forest management staff are starting on the 2017 YOE inventory. Open house and compartment review schedules will be posted online when they are finalized, along with other state forest inventory information at: Michigan.Gov/Forestry

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) recently completed a Surveillance

Audit of Michigan State Forest lands in early October. The field portion was exclusively in the Upper Peninsula. In the WUP, the Escanaba FMU was visited by the external auditors. It is expected that we will receive the final report from that audit by the end of the year and it will be posted online For more information on Michigan’s Forest Certification Program go to: Michigan.gov/ForestCertification

The Crystal Falls Unit Manager position was filled on October 12 by Ben Wiese. Ben comes to the West UP from the

Roscommon Management Unit where he was stationed for about five years. Prior to coming to work for the DNR, Ben worked as a Forester for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in Oregon. He is a graduate of Michigan State University.

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We have also filled the vacant fire officer supervisor position in Escanaba with Steve Sanville. Steve was a fire officer at Escanaba and his vacancy was filled with a transfer from Seney (Jay Osterberg). Additional forester vacancies were filled by transfers including a vacancy in Stephenson filled by Dan Beaudo and a vacancy in Ishpeming being filled with Rick Hill. Both Rick and Dan were previously stationed in the EUP.

Timber harvesting activity is strong. As of October 10th, we have 281 open timber sale contracts in the WUP. This

represents 27,858 acres of timber valued at approximately $22.0 million.

Bid prices on offered timber continue to be high on sales with quality timber. Four sales in the Gwinn unit have gone with no bids. Two of these sales were offered in the past. Primarily these are sales with lower quality wood that are difficult to access. The Baraga Unit received a record bid on a recently offered sale of just over $700,000.

Approximately 94 fuel wood permits were issued over the last two months in the WUP. For more information on

fuel wood permits go to: Michigan.gov/fuelwood

Timber sales prepared for the 2014 YOE were completed at the end of October. In the WUP about 13,000 acres where prepared in 126 timber sale. These sales contained approximately 219,000 cords of wood with an appraised minimum value of 7.8 million dollars

UP fire activity has been one of the lowest in recent memory. Staff are beginning the process of winterizing fire equipment. Fire officer activity will switch to major equipment maintenance, snowmobile program work and winter fire planning and training.

There has been lots of activity preparing for the upcoming snowmobile season and grant sponsor meetings were

conducted across the UP. Grant sponsor contacts (fire officers) have begun checking trails for signing and brushing.

Nearly 250 acres have been or are in the process of being trenched and seeded in the WUP this year.

Work identifying and controlling Oak Wilt epicenters in Escanaba FMU continues, 61 acres of wilt have been treated on 44 sites.

Law Enforcement Division (LED): Lt. Pete Wright, District Law Supervisor Recruit School #5: 31 recruit conservation officers began the academy in January 2014. 23 graduated and have

recently completed their additional 18 weeks of on-the-job training. The 3 probationary conservation officers assigned to District 1 are now in their counties and open for business. It’s been a very long process and it’s nice to finally see all that hard work paying off.

Recruit School #6 is slated to begin January 12th, 2015 with a target number of 44 recruits. A total of 387 applications were received. 224 candidates attended a pre-screening interview with 155 recommended for backgrounds. From there, 78 final interviews were conducted. 40 conditional offers of employment were extended and accepted. One of which has since declined. A recommendation memo for the final five positions will be sent to HR for approval.

District 1 conservation officers have been very busy with the Fall hunting season. The following examples are some of the cases that they have been involved with during a 2 week period in October: CO Mark Leadman and PCO Josiah Killingbeck reported an increased level of ORV activity. The following violations

were encountered last week: operate ORV no license, operate ORV no helmet, operate ORV while operator license suspended, operate ORV on public highway, operate ORV in closed area and operate ORV against the flow of traffic. Appropriate enforcement action was taken with the persons involved.

CO Mark Leadman and PCO Josiah Killingbeck contacted two different groups of adults camping in a prohibited area. Multiple state land use violations were encountered as well. Appropriate enforcement action was taken with the persons involved.

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CO Mark Leadman and PCO Josiah Killingbeck contacted a group of anglers fishing at a popular public access site. Only one of the subjects in the group had a valid fishing license. Appropriate enforcement action was taken with the persons involved.

CO Dennis Gast checked an angler fishing from a kayak on a secluded lake. Among the various violations encountered on this check was failure to provide a PFD and fish no license. Appropriate enforcement action was taken.

CO Mark Leadman and CO Elton Luce conducted a covert patrol on a remote Marquette County lake. Several anglers were checked. Among the anglers was a group of three men fishing from a boat. Two of the three men did not possess a valid fishing license. Two short northern pike were also discovered in the boat. Appropriate enforcement action was taken.

CO Mark Leadman and CO Elton Luce made contact with two juveniles that were operating ORV’s without supervision and also were in possession of firearms. The juveniles had plans to hunt unsupervised when they reached their destination. The juveniles were escorted home and the parents were contacted. Appropriate enforcement action was taken.

CO Douglas Hermanson received a call from a bear hunting outfitter in Ontonagon County who found a dead bear cub near a bear bait. The bear was located where a hunter claimed he shot at and missed a bear. CO Hermanson responded to the scene and collected the cub and a spent rifle casing. A bullet was recovered from a log in the bait pile. Incriminating text messages from the hunter to the outfitter were also retrieved. The cub had been shot then dragged into a nearby creek. The hunter had gone back home to the Flint area. CO Joel Lundberg and PCO William Brickel were called to conduct an interview. The hunter admitted to shooting the cub then attempting to hide it. Enforcement action was taken.

CO Douglas Hermanson made contacted with 2 subjects shooting at a target and bottles with a pistol on state land. The pistol owner stated he had bought the pistol last month but hadn’t registered it to himself. He said he had proof of purchase at his residence. The pistol was seized and the suspects were met again at the home where an inspection of the purchase paperwork was done. Enforcement action was taken.

CO Grant Emery, PCO Brian Lasanen and Sgt. Marc Pomroy worked a bear hunting complaint near Watersmeet. The officers conducted a group patrol to target hound hunting in the wrong bear management unit. Contacts were made with a large group in the area, good compliance was found.

CO Dave Painter and PCO Mansell handled a complaint of the theft of trail cameras and tree stands in Iron County. Contact was made with a possible suspect and it was determined the trail cameras and tree stands were placed on private property and were removed by the land owner. After a discussion with both parties a peaceful resolution was found, and the trail cameras and tree stands returned.

On September 30th, while patrolling an area with complaints of early deer hunting, CO Marvin Gerlach and PCO DeLonge observed an occupied camp that had questionable activities going on. Just prior to night fall the officers observed a light shine from a tree stand and an individual exited toward the ground. Upon contact with the individual, the officers observed a compound bow and after a brief interview learned of a second hunter that was later contacted. Both individuals admitted to deer hunting before the start of archery season. Enforcement action was taken.

CO Jason Wicklund was working bear hunters when he came across a bear hunter who just had his dog killed by wolves. CO Doug Hermanson was in the area and came to assist with the investigation. The bear hunter informed the COs that he also had another dog killed by wolves 2 weeks prior in the same area. As the COs were finishing their investigation, Sgt. Marc Pomroy called to inform the COs that another dog was missing a few miles North of where they were. The COs responded to assist a bird hunter in looking for his dog, which according to the hunter had encountered a pack of dogs just prior to disappearing. After 2 hours of searching the dog was not located.

CO Brian Bacon checked an illegal bear bait he had located earlier in the year. Contact was made with a hunter using an illegal blind that had been set up at the bait location. Along with the illegal bear bait, the hunter was found to be utilizing an illegal ground blind and had failed to register his ORV since 2011. Enforcement action was taken.

CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen assisted Enbridge Pipeline with their monthly safety meeting. The officers spoke on safe hunting practices and the proper use of tree stands.

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CO Grant Emery contacted a group of bear hound hunters who were utilizing illegal baits. The baits were established before the legal start date, and CO Emery was able to investigate and determine the responsible parties. Enforcement action was taken.

CO Marvin Gerlach and PCO DeLonge observed an ORV operating along the state highway. A stop of the ORV found the subject to be the same individual who was given a warning for the illegal operation a month earlier. Enforcement action was taken.

Sgt. Ryan Aho made contact, interviewed and obtained a confession from a subject that had been illegally hunting deer from a motor vehicle at night. The subject had taken two deer at night with a .22 caliber rifle. The subject also admitted to several failed attempts at taking deer that involved shooting from his motor vehicle at night. During those failed attempts shots were taken; however, deer were not recovered. The subject was arrested and seizures were made of the .22 rifle and assorted deer parts.

Conservation Officer Matthew Eberly and Sgt. Ryan Aho made contact with a subject that had crashed his vehicle, left the scene of an accident, failed to report the accident and was operating on a suspended operator’s license. The subject was transported by MSP to the hospital and charges are pending court action.

Conservation Officer Mark Leadman and PCO Robert Freeborn made contact with a subject operating an ORV with no ORV license. The subject was not cooperative. The subject became so angry with the contact that he assaulted PCO Freeborn and attempted to flee with his ORV. The subjects attempt to flee was stopped by CO Mark Leadman and PCO Freeborn. The subject was taken into custody and charges are pending court action.

CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen worked grouse hunting activity on Old M-28 in Gogebic County. Officers contacted a boyfriend and girlfriend who were out target practicing. Further investigation revealed an uncased shotgun in the vehicle. The boyfriend was ticketed for transporting a loaded/uncased shotgun in a motor vehicle.

CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen worked grouse hunting activity on Great Lakes Road in Gogebic County. Numerous checks were made with one subject being ticketed for transporting a loaded/uncased shotgun in a motor vehicle.

CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen worked a night time set line patrol on Lake Gogebic. Numerous camps/docks were checked with one subject being ticketed for fishing with more than three lines.

CO Marvin Gerlach and PCO Brett DeLonge were patrolling on US Highway-41 when they observed an ORV traveling the opposite direction on the shoulder of US-41. After being contacted by PCO DeLonge, the driver of the ORV mentioned that he was taking a shortcut home from the car wash and admitted that he was given a warning about operating the ORV on the highway just a few weeks before. Law enforcement action was taken.

CO Marvin Gerlach and PCO DeLonge received information that a hunter shot a nine point buck on the opening day of archery season before his hunting tags were purchased. After being interviewed by the officers, the suspect admitted to purchasing hunting tags after the buck was harvested. The deer was seized and law enforcement action was taken.

CO Marvin Gerlach and PCO Brett DeLonge received the disposition of a previous case regarding two suspects hunting prior to the opening of the 2014 archery season. Both suspects involved were required to pay over $300 in court costs and fines in addition to losing their hunting privileges for the remainder of the 2014 hunting season.

CO Marvin Gerlach and PCO Brett DeLonge received information regarding a shine and shoot incident in an area frequented by such activity. Upon arriving at the scene, the officers located a doe and fawn that were shot with a firearm and intentionally left by the suspects involved. The investigation continues.

CO Dave Painter and PCO Mike Mansell met with Mick Brown, a Master Falconer out of Ohio. Mr. Brown was able to show the officers the hunting techniques used by falcon hunters, and answered questions for the officers.

CO Dave Painter and PCO Mike Mansell worked the grouse decoy for road hunting activity in Iron County. It didn’t take long before a vehicle pulled up with a loaded/uncased shotgun and attempted to shoot the grouse decoy. Officers made contact with the driver who was cited for the loaded/uncased gun in a motor vehicle.

CO Dave Painter and PCO Mike Mansell followed up on a complaint of a suspicious vehicle possibly road hunting deer with a crossbow. While patrolling in the area, the officers came across the vehicle and contacted the driver. The suspect did have a legal crossbow in the vehicle, but the officers uncovered illegal drugs and open intoxicants in the vehicle. While contacting the subject it was also determined that he was carrying a firearm under a CPL permit, but failed to disclose that to the officers. Enforcement action was taken.

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CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen received a complaint of 3 coon cuff traps set out a day before the season. A suspect has been identified and the officers are the investigation is ongoing.

CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen observed an ORV traveling on the state ORV trail in Marenisco without any ORV decals on the rear portion of the ORV. A traffic stop was conducted and it was determined the operator of the ORV had a suspended driver’s license along with 4 other violations. Law enforcement action was taken.

CO Grant Emery and PCO Brian Lasanen were patrolling in Bessemer when a medical assist call came out. Officers were just passing the local American Legion where the medical call was. Officers were first on scene and administered first aid until local deputies and paramedics arrived on scene.

Fisheries Division: Darren Kramer, George Madison, Jessica Mistak Conducted first round of interviews for the Crystal Falls Fisheries Biologist position and are anticipating having

someone on board early 2015. Conducted fisheries surveys on Lake Perrault, Houghton County; Clear Lake, Houghton County; Cornelia Lake,

Gogebic County; Escanaba River, Delta County; Deer Lake, Iron County; Crystal Falls Impoundment, Iron County; Chicagon Lake, Iron County; and West Bass Lake, Marquette County.

Collected fish from the Menominee River hydroelectric impoundments for contaminant testing. Retrieved temperature loggers. Helped stock fall fingerling walleyes, brook trout, and muskellunge (see http://www.michigandnr.com/fishstock/ for

details). Held annual meeting with the Upper Peninsula Sportsmen’s Alliance Fisheries Committee. Attended “Trout Trails” program kick-off meeting to discuss opportunities to promote trout fishing opportunities in

Iron County. Established a new cooperative rearing agreement with the Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sport Fishermen, Inc. to allow for

a Chinook salmon net pen in Escanaba. Developed Family-friendly water fishing sites for:

− Coldwater trout stream fisheries: Montreal River (Ironwood), lower Dead River between Forestville Basin and Tourist Park.

− Bluegill fisheries: Lake Manganese (Copper Harbor), Tourist Park, Rockland Pond, Boston Pond Reviewed numerous DEQ permit application reviews for bulkheads, as recent Lake Superior high water is causing

numerous shoreline erosion problems for property owners. Reviewed and provided guidance on Fisheries Division’s Aquatic Habitat Grant proposals for the Upper Peninsula. Marquette Fisheries Research Station (Ed Baker, Manager): The Lake Char completed the summer lake trout survey covering south shore waters from Ontonagon to Grand

Marais. The Lake Char also returned to Isle Royale in mid-September. While at Isle Royale the survey work focused on lake trout reproductive dynamics and documenting differences between near-shore and off-shore forms of lake trout. The final survey work of 2014 will begin shortly when the vessel crew will sample and tag spawning lean and siscowet form lake trout.

The summer/fall survey work in bays de Noc has been completed. The late summer/fall emphasis of this work is on documenting year class strength of walleye. Waters surveyed included Big and Little bays de Noc as well as Lake Michigan waters at Naubinway and Manistique.

Stream fish and habitat surveys associated with evaluating the 10 brook trout bag limit on selected streams have been completed. Electrofishing surveys focused on coaster regulations project streams are underway and will be completed by the end of October. Surveys are scheduled for October to coincide with potential coaster spawning activity.

Lake sturgeon tagging and egg collections were conducted on the Sturgeon and Menominee rivers this spring. Egg collections support the streamside rearing and restocking efforts on the Ontonagon, Cedar, and Whitefish rivers. Lake sturgeon growth and survival in the Cedar and Whitefish River facilities was good this summer and fish were stocked in late September. There were 345 lake sturgeon stocked in the Cedar River and 606 stocked in the Whitefish River. Unfortunately, lake sturgeon eggs failed to hatch in the Ontonagon River facility and there won’t be any lake sturgeon stocked in the Ontonagon in 2014.

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Marquette and Thompson Fish Hatcheries (Jan VanAmberg, Manager): Marquette Hatchery Fisheries technicians at Marquette been working extensively with Marquette Research and field units doing field

work on brook trout studies and Lake Superior lake trout assessments. Marquette Hatchery started lake trout spawning activities in late September and we expect to start spawning brook

trout in late October. We expect no problems meeting 2015/2016 targets. Brook trout fall fingerling stocking has started (www.michigandnr.com/fishstock). Experimenting with new egg disinfection procedures at Marquette Hatchery to improve hatchery biosecurity. Many large maintenance projects planned for this year to improve hatchery infrastructure. Thompson Hatchery Added an Electronics Technician (maintenance) that has statewide responsibilities. This position is located at Platte

River Hatchery. The experienced technician at Oden now services the two Upper Peninsula facilities and Oden while the new technician services the three other Lower Peninsula facilities.

Advertised and recruiting for a Trades Helper (maintenance) for Thomson Hatchery. Steelhead fingerlings have been graded to select the largest for yearling production and the small grade has been

stocked out (Anna River, Wolverine and Big Trout Lake). New asphalt and seal coating completed and new water supply pumps installed for better rearing water

temperature control. Many large maintenance projects planned for this year to improve hatchery infrastructure. Aquatic Habitat Management Grant received to allow removal to two dams in Thompson Creek watershed. The

project will be implemented summer of 2015. Reel in Michigan's Fisheries, October 2014 edition http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10364-338816--,00.html This quarterly publication is an outreach item to Michigan anglers to describe what the DNR's Fisheries Division does and why we do it. Specifically it highlights the work Fisheries Division employees are accomplishing on inland lakes and streams. Reel in Michigan's Fisheries will often showcase waters that are actively managed and provide the public with enhanced knowledge and the opportunity to access the wealth of information contained in survey reviews and management reports. Bays de Noc smallmouth bass fishery shines on the national stage http://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDNR/bulletins/d1e846 ESCANABA, Mich. – Mention Lake Michigan’s Bays de Noc to most anglers and they’ll immediately start talking about fishing for walleye. But in the wake of September’s high-profile Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship – which brought 50 of America’s top anglers to Escanaba to ply the waters of Big and Little Bays de Noc – what was once seemingly relegated to “also-ran” status is now national news: The Bays are loaded with trophy bass, too. “The fishery has always been kind of walleye-centric,” said Department of Natural Resources fisheries biologist Darren Kramer. “Bass is kind of an up-and-coming, emerging fishery. Every year we see more and more bass boats, and more out of state anglers, taking advantage of the fishery. There’s a lot of traffic out on Big Bay de Noc after the bass opener. That fishery’s really taken off in the last five or six years. “Our creel data indicates there’s increasing angler effort and we think that’s attributable to bass,” Kramer continued. “Bass harvest has stayed the same, but use of the resource is going up along with angler success, which implies we’re recruiting more catch-and-release bass anglers to the area.” The Bassmaster Angler-of-the-Year Championship started with a bang: On the first day, 12 competitors brought in five-fish limits with a total weight in excess of 20 pounds. Catching bass that weigh more than four pounds each isn’t often accomplished in tournaments, even on some of America’s best big-bass lakes. Although the tournament hit a minor snag, with high winds causing delays that shortened the event to two days rather than three, the weather couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the competing pro anglers who described the fishery as

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“awesome,” “incredible,” “unbelievable” and “amazing.” Paul Elias, a Laurel, Mississippi, resident who won the BASS Classic in 1982, was effusive in his praise. “It’s as good as, or better than, any smallmouth fishery we fish,” he said. And Elias’ comments were echoed by virtually all the competitors. Fayetteville, Tennessee, bass pro Brandon Lester, who brought in the biggest bass of the first day’s competition – a six-pound, four-ounce smallmouth, said, “I’ve never seen so many big smallmouths in my life. They’re not everywhere, but when you find one, you’ll find a group of them. When you get around them, you can light them up real quick.” Said Skeet Reese, a top angler from Auburn, California, at the weigh-in: “That’s the best day of smallmouth fishing I’ve ever had in my life. This is an incredible fishery.” While many of the anglers were surprised by the quality of the fishery, Kevin Short of Mayflower, Arkansas, said the results were just what he expected. Short first fished the waters off Escanaba in 2008 when he recognized that the area would undoubtedly host a future tournament, and has come back every year since just to fish for fun. “If there’s any place in the whole country we would move to for nine months of the year, this would be it,” Short said. “The first couple of trips we really didn’t catch that many, but once we figured it out, holy smokes. It’s a really special place. I’d drive 18 hours just to come up here and fish a few days.” Bass anglers familiar with the fishery had predicted an outstanding tournament. Scott Cormier, a 42-year-old recreational vehicle salesman and lifelong bass angler from Gladstone, said the tournament was “going to open up a lot of eyes” across the country. “There’s a big deep-water fishery out there that nobody’s really fishing,” Cormier said. “There are fish out there in 40 feet of water that have never seen a lure before.” Indeed, most of the anglers were fishing shallow water during the tournament, concentrating on the rocky shoals that were only a few feet deep on the top or on the weedy flats adjoining drop-offs. Dan Anderson, a 48-year-old maintenance supervisor from Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin, who fishes Bays de Noc regularly and was on hand to take photographers out on the lake during the tournament, said the fishery is capable of yielding 100-bass days at any time. “They’re biting good by opening day,” he said. “You can catch them by May 1st and fish right up to deer season.” That such an outstanding bass fishery flew under the radar for so long is just a matter of the Upper Peninsula fishing culture, Kramer said. “Many anglers in the U.P. are typically looking for panfish or walleye,” Kramer said. “A lot of the bass fishermen we see are from downstate or out of state. But I predict that might begin to change.” Added Jessica Mistak, the DNR’s fisheries management supervisor for northern Lake Michigan: “We think this is a world-class fishery that’s really been overshadowed by the walleye fishery. Now that anglers see that there are fish to catch other than walleyes in the Bays, they’ll be eager to come here and try it.” Although invasive species are typically talked about in a negative light, Mistak said water clarity changes – brought on by zebra and quagga mussels – and new prey species, such as gobies, may have helped the smallmouth population. Certainly, the smallmouths are thriving, a fact that is not so secret any more. “This place is unbelievable,” said Jacob Powroznik of Port Haywood, Virginia, who brought in a limit weighing 24-pounds and one-ounce, good for third place after the first day of competition. “I hope we come back real soon.”

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State announces grants as part of new invasive species initiative; At least $3.6 million available to fight land, water invaders Contact: Tammy Newcomb, 517-284-5832 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815 Agency: Natural Resources Oct. 28, 2014

A handbook has been released outlining the scope and guidelines for the new Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program, made possible through funding in Gov. Rick Snyder's fiscal year 2015 budget. The program is a joint effort of the Michigan departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Rural Development.

The grant program will devote at least $3.6 million toward projects to detect, prevent, manage and eradicate invasive species on the ground and in the water.

"The long-term health of Michigan's natural resources is critical to our state's economy and quality of life," said DNR Director Keith Creagh. "The Asian carp, for instance, could devastate the $7 billion Great Lakes fishery. These grants will help us link with partner groups to address the significant threat invasive species pose to Michigan."

The grant program is central to a new invasive species initiative, which brings a multi-department, comprehensive approach to the ongoing problem of harmful, non-native invaders. The initiative is made possible with funding first proposed by Gov. Snyder and approved by the Michigan Legislature. The governor and Legislature devoted $5 million in ongoing funding to invasive species beginning in the 2015 fiscal year. A minimum of $3.6 million of the funding will be devoted to grants, with additional grant funding possible.

Administered by the DNR, the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program targets four key objectives:

• Preventing new introductions of invasive species through outreach and education. • Monitoring for new invasive species as well as expansions of current invasive species. • Responding and conducting eradication efforts to new findings and range expansions. • Managing and controlling key colonized species in a strategic manner.

The program begins October 2014 and will operate each year that funding is available. Local, federal and tribal units of government, nonprofit organizations and universities may apply for a Michigan Invasive Species Grant for work to be conducted in Michigan. Applications must be submitted by Dec. 5, 2014, and those applicants approved for funding will be announced Feb. 15, 2015. Projects funded through this grant cycle must be completed by Oct. 30, 2016.

Collaborative projects will receive higher scoring than those for individual agencies. The minimum grant amount is $25,000 and applicants must commit to provide at least 10 percent of the total project cost in the form of a local match. Applicants with more than a 10-percent match will receive greater scoring consideration.

"The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program is a critical component of the state's comprehensive invasives strategy to prevent new invasions, limit the spread of existing invasions and control their associated impacts," said Creagh. "This program will greatly benefit Michigan's world-class natural resources."

Learn more about the new invasive species initiative - including the grant program - at:www.michigan.gov/invasivespecies.

Latest round of Asian carp eDNA sampling on Kalamazoo River produces zero positive results Contact: Tammy Newcomb, 517-284-5832 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815 Agency: Natural Resources Oct. 27, 2014

The Department of Natural Resources today announced that the latest round of Asian carp environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling on the lower Kalamazoo River in Allegan County produced all negative results.

Earlier this month the DNR and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced a single positive eDNA result for silver carp - a species of Asian carp - within the river, discovered during water sampling efforts conducted this summer.

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Immediately after the DNR learned of the positive sample, the agency worked with USFWS to conduct this third eDNA surveillance effort. The two agencies collected 200 additional water samples on the lower Kalamazoo River Oct. 7 and 8. In addition to sampling, the DNR increased the presence of staff along the river to enlist anglers as part of surveillance efforts.

The previous positive result indicated the presence of genetic material of silver carp, such as scales, excrement or mucous. However, there is no evidence a population of silver carp is established in the Kalamazoo River. In addition to live fish, genetic material can enter water bodies via boats, fishing gear and the droppings of fish-eating birds.

"We greatly appreciate the quick work by USFWS to collect and evaluate these latest samples," said DNR Fisheries Division Chief Jim Dexter. "We are pleased these samples were negative, but that doesn't mean our efforts to keep Asian carp out of Michigan's waters are over."

The DNR will continue to take action in response to the previous positive result. Those actions will include:

• Conducting additional sampling efforts in the spring with USFWS to continue monitoring the river. • Enhancing DNR fishery survey efforts, including expanding our outreach to anglers. • Continuing public education efforts about all aquatic invasive species, including Asian carp, to increase general

understanding of this significant threat to Michigan's waterways.

Anglers and boaters are a first line of defense in the fight against aquatic invasive species. Anglers are urged to become familiar with the identification of Asian carp, including adults and juveniles, as the spread of juvenile Asian carp through the use of live bait buckets has been identified as a potential point of entry into Great Lakes waters. Anglers and boaters are strongly encouraged to drain all water from their boats and to clean boats and gear after each trip. Invasive species and eDNA are known to "hitchhike" within live wells and attach to boat trails, anchors and fishing gear.

For even more information on Asian carp, visit www.michigan.gov/asiancarp.

Parks & Recreation Division: William Doan, WUP District Supervisor Wells State Park: Fixed the well house pump on the south end day use area. Roofed the headquarters office.

Campground was totally full for our Spooktacular event. Turnout was great for this event. Attendance was down 7% for the month in the campground, cabins were the same as last year and the harbor was down 32%.

Cedar River State Harbor dock removal still in the works. Project is still on track for dock removal in the fall of this year.

Baraga State Park camping was slower due to rainy weather, the Harvest Festival event, warmer temperatures and fall colors boosted end of season attendance. Electrical problems with pedestal breakers persisted on Harvest Festival weekend and Labor Day but the issues were repaired in a timely manner so guests could get back to their activities. Camping for the season was down 4% but mini cabin and tepee use were normal. Historical and abatement renovations to the North Toilet Building began in September and are yet to be completed. Due to students returning to school, staffing was a challenge during September and October. Aging equipment repairs were also a constant priority.

Bond Falls Scenic Site had high day use for fall colors. Recreation Passport sales have been steady. Due to students returning to school, staffing was a challenge during September and October.

Fort Wilkins Historic State Park: PRD staff finished installing a new cedar roof on the West Barrack at Fort Wilkins at the End of August. The Historic Flag Stand at the Fort was restored as well. Fort Wilkins hosted a Harvest Festival in September that included a spoo-tacular and geocaching event. Four to Five hundred people participated in the event. Twenty additional sites were reserved compared to the year before. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park hosted 120,628 visitors (day use=70,109/ campers=50,519) in FY 2014. When we compare attendance dating back to 2004 this was the 4th highest year (1st-2004, 2nd-2005, 3rd-2012, 4th-2014). Courtesy Piers located at DNR PRD administered Boating Access Sites and Harbors located in Keweenaw County will be pulled for the season starting on 11/1/14. PRD is Partnering with the Copper Harbor Trails Club on the construction of a mountain bike trail on the south side of Lake Fanny Hooe. Parks and Recreation Division is providing the materials and the Trails Club is

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providing the labor. Construction is under way. The Copper Harbor Trail system is a great example of the economic benefits of sustainable outdoor based recreation.

Twin Lakes State Park Camping for the fall season was complicated by a glitch in the Reservation system which had our water system shut down on the 14 of Sept. Campers during this time made numerous calls to the park about our water, in turn camping was slower. On Sept 25, Twin lakes State Park along with MI-TRALE had our 2014 Senior Ride; over 100 seniors from the surrounding area enjoyed a Side by Side ORV ride from Greenland to the park. The weather was great and the riding conditions were almost perfect. Riders and driver enjoyed a lunch of Pasties donated by Krupp’s Store of Twin Lakes, coffee, water and fresh cookies from park staff. Doing more with less, and keeping our old equipment running is a challenge.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: The Baraga major maintenance crew did a great job putting in a

concrete box culvert and other smaller culverts for our trails projects. Their effort in this project has been exceptional! August and September were our busiest months for this years use season. Attendance tripled compared to the previous months of June and July with some days having over 1000 visitors to Lake of the Clouds, Visitor Center and other areas of the park.

Baraga Field Office finished culvert work at Porkies, worked at Omen Creek for storm damage, Crushed prison camp at Porkies, Moved toilet at Omen Creek and replaced vault at East Shore of Lake Gogebic. Fixed sawmill and cut logs for dock posts.

Escanaba Field Office: Assisted Wells Park with headquarters roof replacement. Waterline Repair at Wells Park. Ramp repair, maintenance dredge and road/parking lot improvements at three Gwinn BAS sites (Sporley, Engman and Big Trout Lakes). Palms Book State Park parking lot island reconfiguration with Newberry FO assistance. Grading and drainage repairs at Fayette State Park.

Van Riper State Park: Logging at Blueberry Ridge Pathway has been very controversial with our Cross Country Ski user group. BBR warming hut construction progressing, there has been an accepted contractor, stating he can have it built in 54 days, there is potential for this to be built by winter. Michael Knack, Ranger-E will be heading to Porcupine Mountains State Park as a Lead Ranger, we wish him the best of luck. September proved to be very busy as usual with our 3 weekends of Harvest Festival; the attendance numbers were amazing as always. Sept 5-7th had 529 participants, Sept 12-14th had 467 participants, Sept 19-21st had 551 participants. Little Presque Isle-- cabin nights were down 3.17% in FY14 from FY13 and brought in just under $10,000 in recreation passport funds. Our STW was writing on average 100 violation notices a weekend. Van Riper State Park-- Camper cabin: was down 15.15% in FY14 from FY13; Rustic cabin: nights increased 38.16% in FY14 from FY13. Mini cabins: camping nights were down 11.66% in FY14. Campground nights: Camping nights decreased 7.37% in FY14 compared to FY13. Water building water softener/iron removal system issues. Broken water line in campground caused us to shut out water system down 2 weeks earlier than normal. The concessionaire at Van Riper chose not to renew their contract in FY14 so we sold firewood, ice, and ice cream out of our contact station and profited $6,576.84 this was quite a revenue increase compared to the $1800.00 from the concession contract that we had previously. Received a trail

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proposal for expanding the Thunder Valley Equestrian trail, under staff review currently. Little Presque Isle Recreation Area hosted another successful marathon put on by Superiorland XC Ski Club.

Lake Gogebic State Park: Staff assisted in clean up of Oman Creek access site damaged in major storm.

Craig Lake State Park: Staff installed new entrance sign for the park. Construction work on suspension bridge at Craig Lake State Park continues, concrete for the footings was brought in via helicopter due to the remote area. Construction equipment (excavators) were brought in via barge. Yurt attendance for FY14 increased by 12.2% from FY13. Rustic cabin nights for FY14 increased 4.76% from FY13. Backcountry camping for FY14 increased 8.03% from FY13. Beaver dam plugged a road culvert; thanks to the Baraga Construction Crew and our staff they diligently got the road passable again.

McLain State Park: No report, supervisor position is vacant. Work is being done to repair exposed sewer line at

shoreline.