Senate announces first-ever Michigan Conservation Week
LANSING-Senate Republicans today announced the first-ever Michigan Conservation Week and introduced key legislation designed to protect outdoor activities, such as hunting and fishing.
To help promote the importance of conservation, the state Senate has designated April 22 through May 1 as Michigan Conservation Week. Beginning with Earth Day, the week is encompassing National Wildlife Week, the state's trout and turkey openers and an observance of the Michigan United Conservation Club's 70th birthday.
"The Michigan Legislature is constitutionally charged with the responsibility to preserve the natural resources of this great state," said Sen. Randy Richardville, R-Monroe. "Michigan's natural resources provide both beauty and background for residents and visitors, and it is important that they be conserved."
As chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee, Birkholz said she is excited to sponsor Senate Resolution 33, officially designating Conservation Week in Michigan.
"Conserving Michigan's natural resources is a priority for most Michigan residents, organizations and lawmakers," said Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township. "It's important to remember that conservation means to preserve our natural resources, while also using them wisely."
Several legislative packages that promote conservation and traditional outdoor activities, such as hunting and fishing, are being unveiled during the observance. The measures will:
Establish in state law the mission of the Department of Natural Resources and the Natural Resources Commission to protect the right to hunt and fish;
Provide new hunting opportunities to attract out-of-state hunters and land available for hunting;
Create new penalties for organized, multiple-offense poaching; and
Expand use of DNR licensing to attract new voters and increase use of DNR gift cards.
In addition to Birkholz and Richardville, Republican senators will be holding events to celebrate Michigan Conservation Week across the state and will be introducing legislation throughout the week, including Jason Allen, R-Traverse City, Jud Gilbert, R-Algonac, Roger Kahn, R-Saginaw, Michelle McManus, R-Lake Leelanau, Bruce Patterson, R-Canton, and Gerald Van Woerkom, R-Norton Shores.
For more information about Michigan Conservation Week, visit the Senate Republican Web site at: http://www.MISenateGOP.com/conservation/.
Posted: Tuesday, April 24, 2007
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