I have hunted in Lake County, Michigan, for the past 32 years, witnessing both the bounty and decline of our wildlife. However, in recent years, I have noticed something alarming—the deer population is at its lowest point. Fellow hunters and residents in Lake County echo the same sentiment, and it is with growing concern that we seek action for the 2026 deer season.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Michigan Natural Resource Commission have the responsibility of ensuring that our wildlife populations remain sustainable. In Lake County, both public and private land hunters are witnessing a troubling decline in deer numbers due to excessive antlerless permits issued along with heavy predation from coyotes and bears. This effects the fawn recruitment the following year and makes sustainment of the deer herd very difficult threatening not only our traditional practices but also the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

We urge the Michigan DNR and Natural Resource Commission to implement a conservation measure that limits the issuance of antlerless deer licenses on private properties to no more than 2,000. Furthermore, we propose the elimination of antlerless deer licenses on public lands in Lake County for the 2026 deer season.

This measured approach would address the critical need to allow deer populations to regenerate, providing future generations of hunters and wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy the richness of Lake County's natural environment. According to state wildlife data, balanced deer populations are crucial for many reasons and harvest quotas should be based on sound science (proposal G)

It is imperative that we take immediate action to revitalize our local deer populations and promote ecological health. Let us come together to preserve the hunting heritage and natural beauty of Lake County.

Please join us in urging the Michigan DNR and the Michigan Natural Resource Commission to take thoughtful measures for effective wildlife management. Your signature can make a difference in safeguarding our deer population for generations to come. Sign this petition to advocate for a sustainable and thriving wildlife ecosystem in Lake County.