• Creating a Statewide Bear Management Plan
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is working to develop a Statewide Bear Management Plan. We hope to have the plan finalized in the Spring of 2009. Public involvement throughout the planning process is critical in order to create a plan that is acceptable to as many Michigan citizens as possible. Therefore, throughout 2008 and early 2009, the DNR will be asking for the public to provide input.

• Bear Management Mission
The mission of the Department's black bear management program is to maintain a healthy black bear population that provides a balance of recreational opportunities for residents while at the same time minimizing conflicts with humans.

• Goals of the Management Plan
To fulfill this mission, the Department of Natural Resources has established six strategic bear management goals that address Population, Recreation and Education.

• Timeline
We plan to hold to the task at hand by following this timeline.

• Bear Consultation Team

• Public Participation
We will have five meetings across the state to discuss bear regulation issues.

• The Plan
Bears are an important natural resource in Michigan and the DNR uses a scientific approach in the management of this resource.

• Contact us
dnr-wld-wild@michigan.gov

• Your Input matters!
Please attend a public meeting.