Successful climate action is a balance of two key pillars within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources: climate mitigation, or the actions we take to reduce the predicted impacts of climate change, and climate adaptation, the actions we take to help our infrastructure, people and the environment adjust to the impacts already felt from climate change.

With climate change already affecting our state, we cannot depend only on mitigation actions. Our work here reflects that. We think creatively and outside the box, using the latest science and technological advances to drive successful outcomes. Most importantly, we are driven by a dedication to protect natural resources that current and future generations can enjoy, and where Michigan species can thrive.

Read on to learn more about current projects the DNR is leading to advance climate action on all fronts.

• Using research to guide conservation
• Reconnecting Michigan’s rivers
• Finding climate solutions in buildings
• Partnering to make an impact
• Lend a hand
• Resources

Using research to guide conservation

Climate change and habitat loss are putting Michigan’s wildlife at risk. Rising temperatures, shifting ranges and invasive species are a few key issues threatening their survival. To combat those threats, the DNR Wildlife Division is conducting research using climate model prediction to complete vulnerability assessments, alongside the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, to better understand how species currently are affected and may be further affected. This will help us identify needed changes in our state’s management plans and where we need to prioritize conservation for the most beneficial outcomes.

Reconnecting Michigan’s rivers

Supported by a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grant, the DNR Forest Resources Division is working closely with partners to remove six improperly sized and failing road-stream crossings along the Upper Manistee River and replace them with properly sized culverts that are more climate-adapted and resilient.

This effort will restore 25 miles of natural stream flow and function, allowing aquatic organisms to once again access the native habitat and spawning grounds that were previously blocked. This is a vital component to Michigan’s Arctic grayling recovery initiative, as the Upper Manistee River is a priority watershed for this species.

Another way we are restoring our rivers is through responsible dam management, working toward removal where needed and improved infrastructure and oversight where possible. Dams are a leading cause of river fragmentation, interruption of a river’s natural flow, poor river quality and warmer river temperatures – all of which are dangerous to our coldwater fish species that rely on cooler stream temperatures for survival.

Learn more about the Arctic grayling’s journey to reintroduction.

Check out a successful dam removal and its benefits to fish habitat.

Finding climate solutions in buildings

DNR Newberry Customer Service Center, constructed from mass timber; photo from Walbridge.

You might not think of building materials as climate solutions – but they can be! The DNR, in a long-standing partnership with MassTimber@MSU, is working to advance mass timber manufacturing and use in our state. These large, engineered wood products store carbon for the life of a building, turning structures into carbon sinks and reducing emissions in our built environment.

Beyond cutting greenhouse gases, mass timber supports sustainable forest management, strengthens the forest economy and lowers wildfire risk. Responsible harvesting prevents overcrowded forests, which can fuel and accelerate fires and their resulting damage. To encourage more mass timber use, the DNR later this year plans to release a Mass Timber Catalyst Fund that will include grants to help support early adoption of mass timber projects.

Learn more about mass timber and see the newest DNR mass timber building here in Michigan.

Partnering to make an impact

Recognizing that funding and community awareness are two of the biggest challenges to effective climate action, the DNR is creating unique solutions through partnerships. Since March 2024, we’ve teamed up with Saugatuck Brewing Company through a common interest in protecting Michigan’s freshwater resources. Our first collaboration, with proceeds from sales of SBC’s Rainbow Rodeo IPA, raised $10,000 in just eight months and boosted public awareness of the value of river restoration and habitat protection for trout species.

Building on that success, the DNR and Saugatuck Brewing Company have collaborated on the April 2025 launch of the Lake Street Light campaign to support ongoing lake sturgeon restoration projects. Lake sturgeon have been swimming our waters for more than 100 million years, but overfishing, pollution and habitat loss have seen those populations decline since the 1800s.

Learn more about this partnership to support lake sturgeon recovery and promote the species’ importance to the Great Lakes.

Lend a hand

Although great work is happening here at the DNR, we know we are stronger in numbers. You can help by continuing to support and engage with climate action, finding more ways to get involved locally, and supporting your favorite parks, trails or waterways. Together we can make a difference! Learn more about volunteer opportunities with the DNR!

Resources

• Beekeeping Clinic: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your Hive.
  • Mitchell State Park in Cadillac, April 26, 9 a.m.
• DNR Outdoor Adventure Center’s Trails Expo.
  • Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit, April 26, 11 a.m.
• Check out the DNR events calendar to find more programs near you and across the state.