MDOT lifts traffic restrictions to ease Memorial Day travel

MDOT lifts traffic restrictions to ease Memorial Day travel

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 25, 2023

 

MEDIA CONTACT
See regional contact
information below.

MDOT lifts traffic restrictions to ease
Memorial Day travel

Safety benefits:
– MDOT is suspending work and lifting traffic restrictions wherever possible this holiday weekend to ease congestion and increase safety (81 out of 146 projects).
– AAA Michigan estimates more than 1.2 million Michigan residents are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, a 9 percent increase from last year.
– Although some equipment and traffic configurations will remain over the weekend, suspending construction operations improves safety for workers and motorists.
– Remember to buckle up, stay alert and avoid distractions at all times when driving.

LANSING, Mich. – This Memorial Day weekend, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is removing lane restrictions on more than 55 percent of its road and bridge projects statewide to ease traffic delays for holiday travelers. AAA Michigan estimates more than 1.2 million Michigan residents are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, a 9 percent increase from last year.

Beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, May 26, and continuing until 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, 81 out of 146 projects statewide will have lane restrictions removed. While motorists will see suspended operations in most MDOT work zones for the weekend, drivers are advised that equipment and certain traffic configurations may remain in place, like temporary shifts or shoulder closures.

“With holiday traffic expected to be back to nearly pre-pandemic levels, this is a great time to remind drivers of safe habits as everyone takes to the road this summer,” said Acting State Transportation Director Brad Wieferich. “Don’t forget there is still a record amount of road and bridge work happening out there thanks to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Rebuilding Michigan program, which means you’ll probably be driving through a few of these work zones. We remind all drivers to slow down, stay alert and avoid distractions. You depend on us to fix the roads; road workers are depending on you with their lives. Let’s make sure everyone makes it home each and every night.”

MDOT oversees I, M, and US routes and is responsible for nearly 10,000 miles of state highways, which carry more than 50 percent of all traffic and approximately 70 percent of commercial traffic in Michigan.

The following is a list of work zones that will remain active or have lane restrictions during Memorial Day weekend. If necessary, detour routes will be posted at the project location. All closures are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on MDOT projects, go to the Mi Drive website at www.Michigan.gov/Drive.

Upper Peninsula

– I-75 in St. Ignace, Mackinac County, has one lane open in each direction using the outside lanes.

– I-75, Chippewa County, will have one northbound lane open over the Pine River.

– M-26, Keweenaw County, is closed at the Silver River west of Brockway Mountain Drive. Detour via US-41.

– M-69 in Crystal Falls, Iron County, is closed at the Paint River bridge. Detour via North 6th Street, Fairbanks Drive and Wagner Street.

– M-123 north of Newberry, Luce County, has one lane open in alternating directions via temporary signals.

– US-2 in St. Ignace, Mackinac County, has the south side of the overpass over I-75 closed. One lane is open in each direction using the north half of the bridge.

– US-41 in Houghton, Houghton County, has one eastbound lane closed at Franklin Square.

– US-41, Houghton County, has one lane open in alternating directions at Massie Road north of Chassell via temporary signals.

– US-45, Ontonagon County, has one lane open in alternating directions over the East Branch of the Ontonagon River via temporary signals south of Rockland.

– US-141, Iron County, has one lane open in alternating directions over the Net River via temporary signals.

For more information, contact MDOT Superior Region Communications Representative Dan Weingarten at 906-250-4809. Follow the Superior Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_UP.

Northern Lower Peninsula

– I-75, Cheboygan County, will have northbound traffic shifted to southbound I-75 with a movable barrier wall.

– I-75 Business Loop (BL), Roscommon/Crawford county line, will have one lane of alternating traffic with a temporary traffic signal.

– M-119 in Harbor Springs, Emmet County, will have one lane of alternating traffic with a temporary traffic signal.

– US-23, Alcona County, is closed from Black River Road to F-41 with a detour on local roads.

– US-31 in Alanson, Emmet County, will have southbound traffic detoured on Milton Road.

For more information, contact MDOT North Region Communications Representative James Lake at 906-250-0993. Follow the North Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_Traverse.

West Michigan

– I-96 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, will have one lane open in each direction between Cascade Road and M-11 (28th Street). Lane closures are in effect on the ramps from M-11 to westbound I-96.

– I-196, Ottawa County, will have one eastbound lane and two westbound lanes open between Zeeland and Hudsonville.

– I-196 Business Route (BR) (Byron Road) in Zeeland, Ottawa County, is closed at the I-196 interchange. The westbound I-196 ramp to westbound I-196 BR is open while all other ramps at the interchange are closed.

For more information, contact MDOT Grand Region Communications Representative John Richard at 616-262-1565. Follow the Grand Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_West.

Southwest Michigan

– I-69, Eaton and Calhoun counties, will have the following restrictions:
     – One lane open in each direction between I-94 and Stine Road.
     – The southbound I-69 ramp to M-78 is closed.
     – The northbound I-69 ramp to eastbound I-94 closed and detoured.
     – The Ainger Road ramp to southbound I-69 is closed and detoured.

– I-94, Calhoun County, has two lanes open in each direction between Helmer Road and M-96 (Michigan Avenue).

– I-94, Kalamazoo County, has the westbound ramp to Portage Road closed. Portage Road has one lane open in each direction.

– US-12, Branch County, has single-lane closures in place with traffic shifts from Willow Lane to West Old Chicago Street in Coldwater, and one lane open over the Coldwater River with a temporary signal.

– US-31, Berrien County, has one lane open in each direction between US-12 and M-139.

– US-131, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties, has one lane open in each direction between Schoolcraft and Three Rivers.

For more information, contact MDOT Southwest Region Communications Representative Nick Schirripa at 269-208-7829. Follow the Southwest Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_Southwest.

Central Michigan and Thumb

– I-69, Lapeer County, will have one lane open in each direction from M-24 to Lake George Road with a traffic shift. The eastbound I-69 ramps at M-24, Wilder Road, and Lake Pleasant Road are closed.

– I-69, St. Clair County, has lane closures and traffic shifts in place from M-19 to Taylor Road. The westbound ramps at Wales Center Road and Taylor Road are detoured.

– I-69 Business Loop (BL) in Port Huron, St. Clair County, will have westbound lanes closed from 24th Street to I-94 BL; detoured via I-94 BL, Lapeer Street, and 24th Street.

– M-15 in Davison, Genesee County, will have shoulder closures and a reduced speed limit from Potter Road to Dodge Road.

– M-20 in Mt. Pleasant, Isabella County, will have one lane open in each direction with a center turn lane from Summerton Road to Mission Road.

– M-25, Sanilac County, will have a lane closure in place at Forester Creek with a temporary traffic signal.

– M-57 in Montrose, Genesee County, will have a traffic shift in place over the Flint River.

– M-65 in Twining, Arenac County, will have a single-lane closure over Big Creek with a temporary traffic signal.

– M-90 in Croswell, Sanilac County, is detoured over the Black River via Todd Road, Galbraith Line Road, and Wildcat Road.

– US-10, Bay County, will have westbound lanes closed from Bay City to the US-10/I-75 interchange; detour via M-13, M-84 and northbound I-75. The eastbound US-10 ramp to southbound I-75 is closed, along with 3 Mile Road over US-10.

– US-10 Business Route, Midland County, will have lane closures and traffic shifts. The Eastman Road ramp to eastbound US-10 is closed and detoured via the Wackerly Street entrance ramp.

For more information, contact MDOT Bay Region Communications Representative Jocelyn Garza at 989-245-7117. Follow the Bay Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_Bay.

Southern Michigan

– I-69, Clinton County, has one westbound lane closed between Lowell Road and I-96.

– I-75, Monroe County, has the following restrictions:
     – One lane closed in each direction with a traffic shift between Erie and Otter Creek roads.
     – The northbound exit ramp to Otter Creek Road is closed.

– I-94, Jackson County, has the following restrictions:
     – The westbound on and off ramps at Elm Avenue are closed and detoured.
     – The westbound on and off ramps at Parma Road are closed and detoured.

– I-496, Ingham County, has the following restrictions:
     – One lane is open in each direction between Grand Avenue and Lansing Road.
     – The Capitol Avenue and Pine Street bridges over I-496 are closed.

– M-60, Jackson County, has the northbound ramp to westbound I-94 closed and detoured.

– M-99, Hillsdale County, has one southbound lane closed with a temporary traffic signal near Camden Road.

– M-99, Ingham County, has one lane closed in each direction between Petrieville Highway and Wilbur Highway.

– US-23, Washtenaw County, has the following restrictions:
     – Willis Road is closed over US-23.
     – The southbound US-23/Willis Road entrance and exit ramps are closed.
     – The eastbound Willis Road entrance ramp to northbound US-23 is closed.
     – US-23 and US-12 each have one lane open in each direction at the interchange.

– US-127, Ingham County, has one lane closed in each direction between the Jackson County line and Howell Road.

– US-127/I-496, Ingham County, has the following restrictions:
     – The eastbound I-496 ramp to northbound US-127 is closed.
     – The southbound US-127 ramp to westbound I-496 is closed.

– US-127, Jackson County, has one lane closed in each direction just north of McDevitt Road.

For more information, contact MDOT University Region Communications Representative Aaron Jenkins at 517-243-9075. Follow the University Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_LanJxn and www.twitter.com/MDOT_A2.

Metro Detroit

Macomb County

– I-94 has one lane open in each direction between 23 Mile Road and County Line Road with the westbound I-94 exit ramp to 23 Mile Road closed, along with the 23 Mile Road entrance ramp to eastbound I-94 closed.

– M-3 (Gratiot Avenue) has two southbound lanes open between 9 Mile and 8 Mile roads.

– M-3 (Gratiot Avenue) has two lanes open in each direction between 14 Mile and Wellington Crest roads.

– M-53 (Van Dyke Avenue) has two southbound lanes open at 14 Mile Road.

– M-59 has the eastbound right-turn lane to Schoenherr Road closed.

Oakland County

– Cass Avenue is closed over I-94.

– Grand River Avenue is closed over I-94.

– Grand Boulevard (MacArthur Bridge) bridge to Belle Isle has the right lane closed.

– I-75 has the southbound ramp to eastbound 14 Mile Road closed.

– I-75 Business Loop (BL)  has all southbound lanes closed from Prospect Street to South Boulevard, with one northbound I-75 BL lane closed from Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to South Boulevard.

– I-96 has two lanes open between Kent Lake Road and I-275, with ramp closures.

– I-696 has two lanes open between I-275 and Lahser Road, with ramp closures.

– M-1 (Woodward Avenue) will have two lanes open between M-102 (8 Mile Road) to I-696.

Wayne County

– I-94 has the westbound ramps to northbound and southbound M-10 closed.

– I-94 has the eastbound ramp to Grand River Avenue closed.

– I-96 has the westbound ramps to M-39 (Southfield Freeway) closed.

– I-96 has lane closures from Schaefer Highway to M-8 (Davison Highway).

– I-275 has two lanes open from Eureka Road to 5 Mile Road.

– I-375 has lane closures at Madison Street and M-3 (Gratiot Avenue). There is one lane open on the ramp to Madison Street. The southbound M-3 ramp to I-375 closed, along with the northbound I-75 ramp to southbound I-275 closed.

– M-10 (Lodge Freeway) has the ramps to eastbound I-94 closed.

– M-102 (8 Mile Road) will have two lanes open from M-1 (Woodward Avenue) to M-53 (Van Dyke Avenue).

– US-12 (Michigan Avenue) will have two lanes open from Elm Street to Firestone Street.

– US-24 (Telegraph Road) will have two lanes open between 6 Mile Road and M-102 (8 Mile Road).

For more information, contact MDOT Metro Region Communications Representative Diane Cross at 248-752-0336. Follow the Metro Region on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDOT_MetroDet.

 

Delightful Cooking Ideas for a Memorable Memorial Day Holiday

Delightful Cooking Ideas for a Memorable Memorial Day Holiday

Delightful Cooking Ideas for a Memorable Memorial Day Holiday

Memorial Day is a special time to honor and remember those who have bravely served our country. As
we gather with family and friends, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather
and indulge in delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a picnic in the
park, this article presents a variety of cooking ideas to make your Memorial Day holiday truly
unforgettable.

1. Classic Grilled Favorites:
Grilling is synonymous with Memorial Day, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of juicy burgers,
sizzling hot dogs, and marinated chicken on a warm summer day. Prepare a spread of classic grilled
favorites, and let your guests customize their creations with an array of condiments, cheese, and fresh
vegetables. Consider adding a twist by offering gourmet burger toppings like caramelized onions,
avocado slices, or blue cheese crumbles.

2. Flavorful Marinades and Rubs:
Take your grilled meats to the next level by using flavorful marinades and rubs. Infuse your chicken with
a tangy lemon-herb marinade or add a touch of smokiness to your ribs with a homemade barbecue rub.
Let the meats marinate for a few hours or overnight to enhance their tenderness and taste. These
simple additions will elevate your grilling experience and impress your guests.

3. Vibrant Summer Salads:
Complement your grilled dishes with a vibrant selection of summer salads. Incorporate seasonal
ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh corn, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs to create refreshing side
dishes. Try a classic Caprese salad with mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Alternatively, toss together a colorful watermelon and feta salad or a quinoa salad with grilled
vegetables for a healthier option.

4. Creative Skewers and Kebabs:
For a fun and visually appealing twist, assemble an assortment of skewers and kebabs using a variety of
proteins, vegetables, and fruits. Thread marinated shrimp, chunks of pineapple, and bell peppers onto
skewers for a tropical touch. Prepare chicken and vegetable kebabs brushed with teriyaki glaze for an
Asian-inspired flair. The possibilities are endless, and these skewered delights are sure to impress both
adults and children alike.

5. Chilled Beverages and Summery Mocktails:
Keep your guests cool and refreshed by serving a selection of chilled beverages and summery mocktails.
Create a refreshing batch of homemade lemonade infused with flavors like mint, lavender, or
strawberry. Offer a range of fruity mocktails made with sparkling water, fresh fruit juices, and garnishes
like citrus slices and mint sprigs. Don’t forget to provide non-alcoholic options for those who prefer not
to drink.

6. Delectable Desserts:
End your Memorial Day gathering on a sweet note with delightful desserts that capture the essence of
the season. Prepare a colorful fruit salad featuring juicy berries, watermelon, and kiwi. Alternatively,
whip up a batch of homemade ice cream or sorbet with flavors such as mango, coconut, or lemon. If
you’re feeling adventurous, assemble a patriotic-themed trifle layered with fresh berries, sponge cake,
and creamy custard.
This Memorial Day, elevate your culinary game by incorporating these cooking ideas into your holiday
celebration. From sizzling grilled favorites to refreshing summer salads, creative kebabs, and delectable
desserts, there’s something to please every palate. By combining delicious food, great company, and a
heartfelt tribute to our nation’s heroes, you can make this Memorial Day truly unforgettable. Enjoy the
holiday and savor the flavors of the season!

Here’s a recipe for a vibrant summer salad that will add a burst of freshness to your Memorial Day
spread:
Recipe: Watermelon and Feta Salad
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed watermelon, seedless
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup arugula or mixed salad greens
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, feta cheese, arugula or mixed salad greens, red onion, and
mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
3. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
4. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that
complements the watermelon and feta beautifully.
6. Garnish with a few extra mint leaves for an added touch of freshness.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this summer salad.
Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients based on your preferences and the number of
servings you wish to make. This salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful
combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors that will leave your guests craving for more.
Remember, the key to a successful summer salad is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. So, choose ripe,
juicy watermelon and quality feta cheese to ensure the best flavor experience. Enjoy this refreshing
salad as a side dish or even as a light main course option.

Happy cooking and have a wonderful Memorial Day holiday!

DNR News Digest – Holiday Edition

DNR News Digest – Holiday Edition

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News Digest – Holiday Edition

a yellow-bodied, bright blue-headed mourning warbler perches on a thin, brown twig, with bright green ferns in background

With spring birding in full swing, be on the lookout (and listen!) for warblers and other songbirds.

If you’ve been dreaming about the long Memorial Day weekend, we get it! We don’t just take care of Michigan’s natural and cultural resources, we love getting out there and unplugging from everything, too. Ahead of the holiday, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has some tips to keep everyone safe and maybe discover something new:

Need additional inspiration? Visit our website for more things to do and places to go. Be safe, have fun, and go make some memories!


S’more smarts: Tips for safe campfires

A gooey marshmallow is toasted in the orange light of a flickering campfire Stack up the graham crackers, chocolate and toasted (or burned – whoops!) marshmallows to make the classic s’more, a treat best enjoyed around a crackling campfire.

But as you stack up wood to prepare your campfire, how do you make sure you toast only the marshmallows, and not the whole backyard or campground? Just as with s’mores, there’s a classic recipe for ensuring a safe fire:

  • Build your fire in a campfire ring or space surrounded by bare earth. (In state parks and campgrounds, we provide the fire rings for you! Please don’t build your own.)
  • Always keep a water source and a metal shovel nearby.
  • Never leave a fire unattended, even for a minute.
  • When it’s time to turn in for the night, drench your fire with water, stir the ashes and drench again to make sure it’s completely out.

By minding your campfire, you’ll help keep family and guests safe, as well as the nature around you. Get more fire safety tips at Michigan.gov/PreventWildfires.

Questions? Contact DNR fire prevention specialist Paul Rogers at [email protected].


Three words for three-day weekend: Play, Clean, Go

Looking up at the dirty black, pebbled sole of a man's hiking shoe, in focus, as the hiker is blurred against a lush, green forest canopyWhether it’s organizing a group kayak trip, packing for a weekend in the woods or just planning a picnic at the beach, getting ready for a long weekend can be complicated.

On the other hand, protecting the amazing places you’ll visit is easy! Just remember three simple words: Play, Clean, Go. The words don’t take up much space – and here’s the great thing: You can use them over and over again, no matter where you go.

Adopting the Play, Clean, Go mindset can help prevent the spread of invasive species on land and in the water. Here’s how it works:

  • Play: Swim, hike, fish, run, dance under the stars – however you have fun in the outdoors.
  • Clean: Before you leave the trail, campground or shore – shake it out, brush it off, wipe it down or whatever it takes to remove dirt and debris from your shoes, gear and vehicle. If you have a watercraft, remember to drain tanks and bilges, too.
  • Go: Head out on your next adventure, invasive species-free!

Whether your plans include off-road vehicle riding, hiking, boating or climbing, get helpful tips tailored to your favorite outdoor pursuits at  PlayCleanGo.org/Take-Action.

Invasive insects and plant diseases cost the U.S. an estimated $40 billion a year in damage to trees, plants and crops and related management efforts. They can threaten the economy, food supply, environment and, in some cases, public health.

As you head outdoors, remember that a little bit of prevention can go a long way. Take the time to share these easy steps with friends and family so everyone can do their part to protect our natural spaces.

Questions? Contact Joanne Foreman at [email protected].


Summer exploring? Add a state fish hatchery to your travels

A group of children is shown on a tour of the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery.Want a firsthand look at where millions of fish are raised each year to stock lakes and streams across Michigan? Add a stop at a state fish hatchery to your summer travel plans!

It’s a great time to go: This year the DNR is celebrating 150 years of state fish hatcheries – a system rich with history, and one that helps stock 20 million to 25 million fish in an average year at up to a thousand sites in streams, inland lakes and the Great Lakes.

From southwest Michigan to the Upper Peninsula, there are six state fish hatcheries supporting fish populations throughout the state:

  • Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery’s (Van Buren County) rearing program includes muskellunge, walleye, steelhead and Chinook salmon.
  • Harrietta State Fish Hatchery (Wexford County) was put into service in 1901. It is the longest continuously operating hatchery in Michigan, rearing brown and rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon.
  • Platte River State Fish Hatchery (Benzie County) rears Chinook and Atlantic salmon and 100% of the coho salmon produced by the DNR. The site also incubates and hatches walleye eggs each spring.
  • Oden State Fish Hatchery (Emmet County) was fully rebuilt in 2002, making it the most recently modernized Michigan hatchery. Oden’s current rearing program includes both brood and production fish for the brown and rainbow trout stocking programs.
  • Thompson State Fish Hatchery’s (Schoolcraft County) rearing program has included Chinook and Atlantic salmon, steelhead, and brown and rainbow trout in the years since the facility’s 1976 rebuild. Thompson also served as a walleye incubation and hatching station. In 2021, a new coolwater production facility was constructed at Thompson, adding muskellunge and spring fingerling walleye production to the program. Coldwater species currently reared there include Chinook salmon and steelhead.
  • Marquette State Fish Hatchery (Marquette County) serves as the brood and sole production facility for all char species stocked by Michigan’s fishery managers. The Arctic grayling brood fish are also held at Marquette. The rearing program includes brook and lake trout and the hybrid splake, a cross between female lake trout and male brook trout.

To plan a visit, refer to individual hatcheries’ hours of operation and call ahead to schedule group tours: Wolf Lake (269-668-2876), Harrietta (231-389-2211), Platte River (231-325-4611), Oden (231-347-4689, ext. 12), Thompson (906-341-5587) or Marquette (906-249-1611).

Learn more at Michigan.gov/Hatcheries.


‘Ride Right’ for safe, responsible, off-road riding fun

three black, orange and green off-road vehicles going single file down a dirt forest road next to a body of water, forest in backgroundOff-road vehicles are fun year-round, but ORV activity ramps up in spring and summer as many people head to Michigan trails and ORV scramble areas.

Responsible, informed riding practices should be top priority for everyone, but it’s important to keep in mind that speed and rider inexperience are the primary contributing factors in ORV accidents, serious injuries and death.

All ORV operators are urged to “Ride Right” and keep this important guidance in mind:

  • Ride at a safe speed.
  • Ride on the right side of the trail.
  • Keep lights on when riding.
  • Always wear a helmet.
  • Ride sober and safe.
  • Operate within the limits of your ORV and your own capabilities.

Do your part to ensure everyone returns home safely to family and friends; read more about ORV safety at Michigan.gov/RideRight. For more on where to ride and ORV laws in Michigan, go to Michigan.gov/ORVInfo.

Questions? Contact Cpl. Mike Hearn at [email protected].


Explore Michigan’s state parks with your very own guide

On the beach, a young girl in a bright green shirt holds up a fish she caught as a young woman in a DNR ballcap looks onLooking to learn a little something about Michigan’s natural resources this summer? The State Park Explorer Program is a great place to start. Take a hike, catch a fish, look and listen for birds, and get up close and personal with mammal furs and skulls!

Explorer guides are stationed at 35 state parks and recreation areas around Michigan from Memorial Day through the end of August, and they host a variety of programs featuring each location’s rich and varied natural resources. Park visitors can participate in fun and engaging hikes, games, activities and crafts, all while learning about what makes each park special.

If you have a passion for birds, join us in celebrating them during Michigan’s Feathered Friends Weekend June 16-18, with several state parks featuring bird hikes, bird identification programs and much more.

Explorer guide programs are fun, educational and great for the whole family. Find information about all explorer guide programs throughout the summer at Michigan.gov/NaturePrograms.

Now hiring explorer guides

Looking for a fun summer job? We’re searching for explorer guides for Algonac, Brighton, Brimley, Burt Lake, Fort Custer, Mears, North and South Higgins, Rifle River and Sleeper/Port Crescent state parks. Share your love of the outdoors all summer long! Positions start at $15 per hour. Apply today at Michigan.gov/DNRJobs.

Questions? Contact Holly Vaughn at 248-459-7917.


Be a better boater; commit to safety on the water

a small group of very young, smiling girls and boys in bathing suits and life jackets stand on a pier, a conservation officer is behind themFor many in Michigan, the Memorial Day holiday weekend marks the unofficial start to summer, and that means dropping the boat in your favorite lake, river or stream. Before you hit the water, be sure you’ve taken steps to guarantee a safe time for all aboard.

To elevate that message during National Safe Boating Week (May 20-26) and all season long, the DNR is again teaming up with McDonald’s of Michigan to increase awareness of boater safety and the importance of wearing life jackets.

From Memorial Day weekend through the Labor Day holiday, conservation officers will hand out vouchers to youth and teens who are seen wearing life jackets while boating. Each voucher is valid for a free ice cream cone or apple slice package at participating McDonald’s of Michigan locations.

“We’re in our third year of this partnership, and it’s always nice to see kids and parents get excited when we reward them for being safe on the water, and have that positive law enforcement interaction,” said Lt. Tom Wanless, the DNR’s state boating law administrator and recreational safety, education and enforcement supervisor. “A fun day of boating begins with safety. A tasty treat on the way home is a wonderful way to end the day and, hopefully, launch a family talk about boating safety.”

A man and a boy enjoy an autumn afternoon boating on a lake in Luce County.

Real risk, sensible solutions

The most recent U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the cause of death in 81% of national boating-related fatalities in 2021. Of those drownings, 83% of victims were not wearing life jackets, and two of every three victims were considered good swimmers.

“Taking time now to check your gear, brush up on boating laws and plan for safety can prevent problems later,” Wanless said. “Incidents can happen at any time, and weather can quickly affect conditions on inland waters and the Great Lakes. Familiarizing yourself and fellow boaters with safety tips and equipment can mean the difference between a perfect day on the water and a needlessly tragic outcome.”

Those born after June 30, 1996, need a boating safety certificate to operate a boat on the water. If you were born after Dec. 31, 1978, and want to operate a personal watercraft, such as a Jet Ski, you also need a valid boater education safety certificate.

The DNR offers boating safety education as an online and traditional classroom course to teach new and experienced boaters about current laws and safe operation.

Learn more about boating opportunities, safety information and other resources at Michigan.gov/Boating.

Questions? Contact Lt. Tom Wanless at [email protected].


Beach safety

If your plans include Great Lakes beach time, get the latest on double red flag warnings and helpful water safety tips and info to ensure everyone enjoys the weekend.

Accessibility

We believe the outdoors is for people of all abilities. See what we’re doing to boost accessibility at parks, piers, playgrounds and your other favorite outdoor places!

Look local

State park? State forest campground? Hiking trail, boat launch, fishing spot or other outdoor inspiration? No matter what you’re looking for, find it in Your Local Outdoors.

 

First Meeting of Juvenile Justice Advisory Council 

First Meeting of Juvenile Justice Advisory Council 

LG Header 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 23, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

 

Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Kicks Off First Meeting of Juvenile Justice Advisory Council

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II kicked off the first meeting of the Juvenile Justice Advisory Council, which will inform Michigan’s juvenile justice reform efforts through the lived experiences of those who were impacted by the system. The Advisory Council was established within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) after a unanimous recommendation from the Michigan Task Force on Juvenile Justice Reform.

 

“We are committed to centering the lived experiences of those who have been impacted by the juvenile justice system as we address complex challenges faced by thousands of young Michiganders each year,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “The individuals on this council can help shine a light on where improvements must be made, as we work to better serve young Michiganders and lead the nation on justice issues.”

 

 “Our goal is a juvenile justice system that is more effective, more transparent, more consistent, and more data driven, where decision-making is evidence-based and laser-focused on positive outcomes for every youth,” said Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement. “This advisory group, and especially the members who have experienced the system, will help policy makers better understand what works and what doesn’t, so that Michigan can achieve those goals and make a positive difference in the lives of young people statewide.”

 

“By sharing their lived experiences with us, our advisory council members will give us an irreplaceable perspective to inform our juvenile justice reform efforts,” said Suzanna Shkreli, who was named MDHHS’ Director of Juvenile Justice Reform in March. “Under Director Elizabeth Hertel’s leadership, MDHHS is tackling the systemic and persistent issues within the juvenile justice system to ensure that youth have the support, resources, and opportunity to safely return to their communities and thrive.”

 

The Juvenile Justice Advisory Council was established to work to improve the juvenile justice system through review of and changes to department policy and practices; provide support to prior and current juvenile justice youth, adults, and their families; and to share their experiences and suggestions for how the system can be improved. Initial focuses will include job training and skill development, consultation and implementation of juvenile justice policy, and improvements to residential facilities. Council members will serve two-year terms.

 

Advisory Committee Members

Mr. Michael Davis-Thomas

Ms. Pura Strong

Ms. Sandra Medina

Ms. Neveah Fisher

Mr. Antwon Jackson

 

The Michigan Task Force on Juvenile Justice Reform was composed of leaders from across branches of government, state and local agencies, those working in and impacted by the system, and other stakeholders, and was facilitated by The Council of State Governments Justice Center. To learn more about the recommendations, please visit https://michigancommitteeonjuvenilejustice.com/jj-reform-task-force/.

Chief advocate for driverless vehicles lifesaving potential

Chief advocate for driverless vehicles lifesaving potential

Chief advocate for driverless vehicles explains their lifesaving potential

On this week’s Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with Jeff Farrah, executive director of the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA).

Listen now: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1374205/12902175-chief-advocate-for-driverless-vehicles-explains-their-lifesaving-potential

 

TMT - Chief advocate for driverless vehicles

As discussed in previous installments, U.S. traffic deaths jumped 10.5 percent in 2021 to 42,915, marking the highest number killed on American roads in a single year since 2005.

Jeff Farrah

Farrah talks about the safety benefits of autonomous vehicles, both in terms of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks.

He observes that many vehicles on the road today have driver assistance technologies, which help to save lives. The evolution of the technology will only enhance those safety benefits.

On next week’s edition, the focus on safety continues as Jake Nelson, director of traffic safety advocacy and research for AAA, joins the podcast to talk about the troubling crash data and what can be done.