DNR suspects bird flu in Lower Michigan

by Becky Andrus | Feb 11, 2025 | Uncategorized

DNR News

Feb. 11, 2025
Contact: Mitch Marcus, DNR Wildlife Health supervisor, 517-242-0745

DNR suspects bird flu in recent Lower Michigan waterfowl die-offs

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has recently sampled dead wild birds suspected to be positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza at multiple locations across Lower Michigan. The DNR’s ongoing disease surveillance indicates that HPAI is widespread in wild bird populations throughout the state.

HPAI is a highly contagious respiratory disease that causes sickness and sometimes death in birds and mammals. The virus spreads through fecal droppings or nasal discharge of an infected bird, which contaminates the environment.

So far this year, more than 300 dead wild birds have been discovered in five counties.

DNR staffers collected 77 dead Canada geese and one dead mallard from the Fennville Farm Unit at Allegan State Game Area in Allegan County. More than 80 dead Canada geese were reported along the Shiawassee River near Owosso in Shiawassee County. About 25 dead Canada geese were reported at Williamston Lakes in Ingham County, and another 20 dead birds were reported along the Grand River in Grand Ledge in Eaton County. About 100 dead birds were reported in Washtenaw County.

Samples collected from the Allegan State Game Area, Shiawassee River, Williamston Lakes and Washtenaw County sites were sent to the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory in East Lansing for testing. Preliminary results indicate avian influenza is suspected.

When an avian influenza virus is detected, the samples are forwarded to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, for confirmatory testing, which can take weeks to months to complete. The national laboratory will test for, confirm and identify any highly pathogenic strains of an avian influenza virus.

Confirmed positive cases are posted on the DNR HPAI webpage. However, HPAI is widespread in wild birds throughout Michigan. Even if a county does not have a confirmed case listed, HPAI could still be present.

If you observe a die-off of six or more wild birds, report it to the DNR at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField. You can also report wild birds or other wild animals that appear sick.

Leave dead wild birds alone

Dead wild birds should be left to naturally decompose if they are in an area where it is difficult to get to them, or where people and domestic animals will not have contact with them. A fresh carcass can spread disease, but as the animal decomposes, the virus will die.

“If you find a dead wild bird, you should leave it alone; however, if you need to remove it, do not touch it with your bare hands. You should wear gloves and other personal protective equipment,” said Mitch Marcus, DNR Wildlife Health supervisor. “The best advice we can give is to treat every wild bird as though it has a disease.”

HPAI cannot be detected without testing. Some birds are carriers of the virus, but are healthy and may never get sick, even though they can spread the disease.

What should I do if I find dead wild birds on my property?

Property owners are responsible for cleaning up dead wild animals on private property. The DNR conducts sampling of dead animals as appropriate but does not clean up carcasses.

If dead wild birds are easily accessible and pose a potential risk to people and domestic animals, double bag the carcasses and dispose of them through normal trash pickup. Always use personal protective equipment:

Wear shoes that can be disinfected and disposable or rubber gloves.
Wear a face mask and eye protection to protect your nose, mouth and eyes from accidental splashes that may contain the virus.
If handling multiple wild birds, wear rain bibs or a waterproof apron over clothing. In a pinch, you can wear a large plastic garbage bag with holes cut for your arms and neck.
Disinfect the protective layers and wash clothes immediately afterward.
Discard disposable personal protective equipment, disinfect all other PPE and clothing, and wash hands thoroughly when done.

DNR continues wildlife disease surveillance

“Since the initial outbreak in 2022, highly pathogenic avian influenza — commonly known as bird flu — has been found in wild birds throughout the U.S., so we expect to see continuing cases of HPAI affecting Michigan’s wildlife,” said Sara Thompson, DNR Wildlife Division chief. “The DNR will continue appropriate surveillance efforts, prioritizing birds found in large mortality events, raptors and wild mammals.”

Kaitlyn Barnes, DNR wildlife biologist and acting waterfowl specialist, said the DNR does not anticipate serious impacts to Michigan’s duck, goose or swan populations.

“The populations immediately near the sites with positive test results could see a decline, but there should not be impacts to the statewide population,” Barnes said.

This HPAI strain has killed numerous bald eagles and colony nesting birds like terns and cormorants. It is too early to determine whether this outbreak will result in population-level effects, but research is ongoing.

Working together to keep people and animals safe

State of Michigan experts in many fields are working together to respond to reports of suspected cases of bird flu across the state.

Wildlife

The DNR is here to help Michiganders enjoy the state’s natural resources and safely engage with wildlife and the outdoors. To help prevent the spread of HPAI, the DNR advises people to avoid direct contact with wildlife, and to keep their domestic animals from having contact with wildlife.

The DNR also advises cleaning backyard wild bird feeders every two weeks with a 10% bleach to water solution to avoid transmission of HPAI and other diseases more commonly spread at bird feeders. Don’t place seed directly on the ground or use platform feeders; this can help slow disease spread by preventing larger numbers of birds and other wildlife from congregating.

Canada goose hunting opportunities are continuing as planned at the Fennville Farm Unit with precautions advised.

Domestic animals

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues to lead Michigan’s response to HPAI by closely monitoring and responding to reports of sick domestic birds and HPAI throughout the state. Owners of backyard and commercial flocks and herds should continue to follow all MDARD biosecurity guidance to prevent and respond to outbreaks of HPAI.

Feral and domestic cats have tested positive for the disease, so it is best to keep pet cats indoors to ensure they do not have contact with wildlife. For more information, read the MDARD fact sheet on HPAI and cats.

HPAI has not been detected in domestic canines in the United States, but owners should still take precautions to ensure that dogs do not have contact with wildlife, especially sick or dead wildlife.

Human health

The risk of HPAI infecting people is low, but the virus can infect people, especially those who come in contact with infected animals or materials. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the public health risk associated with HPAI to be low, it’s important to take precautions to avoid contracting or spreading the virus. Visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services influenza A (H5N1) webpage for more public health information.

Bills Establishing Innovation Fund, R&D Tax Credit

by Becky Andrus | Jan 13, 2025 | Uncategorized

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

Governor Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Bills Establishing Innovation Fund, R&D Tax Credit to Unleash Entrepreneurship, Lower Costs for Businesses, Create Jobs

Each of these bills invests in our state’s economy and workforce, ensuring Michigan is a leader in technology and innovation

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed five bipartisan bills to establish the Michigan Innovation Fund and an R&D Tax Credit. These new tools will lower costs for businesses, support innovators and entrepreneurs, and create and support good-paying jobs by ensuring businesses of all sizes have the tools and resources they need to reinvest in Michigan. The bills also attract investments in our state by incentivizing research and innovation, growing Michigan’s economy, and creating thousands of jobs in counties across our state. Including today’s legislation, Governor Whitmer has signed a record 1,436 bipartisan bills into law since taking office.

“Our brand-new, bipartisan Innovation Fund and R&D Tax Credit will empower Michigan entrepreneurs, lower costs for Michigan businesses, and create good-paying Michigan jobs,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m proud that we worked across the aisle on these commonsense bills to grow our economy and ensure more people can make it in Michigan. We still have more work to do to make Michigan the best state to build your big idea, and I’ll have more to say later this week during my Road Ahead Address.”

“Throughout our history, Michigan minds and muscle have pushed boundaries, made a difference, and driven our state forward,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “These new tools will make it easier for countless innovators and entrepreneurs across Michigan to grow our economy, pioneer exciting tech, and make their next big idea a reality. Let us continue to stand tall, tell Michigan’s story, and show the world that Michigan is the best place to build the future.”

“I’m thrilled to start 2025 off strong by celebrating this historic new investment in Michigan’s innovation economy,” said Ben Marchionna, Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer at the MEDC. “By establishing the Michigan Innovation Fund alongside the new R&D Tax Credit, we’re declaring the grit, creativity, and enduring prowess of our entrepreneurs and innovators deserve to be supported and showcased. Equitable, accessible funding and an R&D-friendly tax environment is how we’ll transform today’s big ideas into tomorrow’s growth industries. I’m grateful to the legislature, Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist for supporting this as the largest state appropriation for entrepreneurship and innovation in nearly two decades. This bold move shows the world that Michigan is serious about building a thriving innovation ecosystem – one where founders can truly ‘Make it’ in Michigan.”

House Bills 5100 and 5101, sponsored by state Representatives Jasper Martus (D-Flushing) and Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo), supports economic development and innovation within Michigan by establishing a Research and Development (R&D) tax credit for eligible taxpayers and employers. Taxpayers and authorized businesses with 250 or more employees could claim up to $2 million per taxpayer or business, respectively, per year. Companies with fewer than 250 employers can claim up to $250,000 per taxpayer or business, respectively, per year. The credit also allows taxpayers or employers to claim up to $200,000 in an additional credit for expenses if they collaborate with a research university. These bills will help leverage our universities, making Michigan a hub for innovation and providing a vital boost to local economies across the state. This change will join Michigan with 36 other states who already have an R&D tax credit, helping make our state a frontrunner in innovation by incentivizing more companies to invest in the state and attracting employees looking for high-paying jobs in these industries.

“I am thrilled to see these bipartisan bills signed into law. This legislation aligns Michigan with over 30 states already benefiting from research and development tax credits, which strengthen their economies,” said state Representative Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo). “My bill aims to add robust incentives to increase and attract small businesses with fewer than 250 employees and fosters an environment to drive innovation and economic growth amongst many sectors, including life sciences and advanced manufacturing, ensuring our state feels positive economic impacts for generations to come.”

“I am truly ecstatic that the governor has signed this package of bills into law,” said state Representative Jasper R. Martus (D-Flushing). “First and foremost, it is important that Michigan continues to encourage innovation and productive economic development in our state. This bill package will help continue to build our state’s reputation for being ‘the place’ to start and develop a business — which then uplifts people, job opportunities and bolsters our economy.”

“Innovation is the key to growth for manufacturing, the state’s largest and most critical sector,” said Mike Johnston, Executive Vice President for Government Affairs and Workforce Development, Michigan Manufacturers Association. “The creation of a research and development credit increases our competitiveness and will attract new jobs and investment opportunities to Michigan.”

“The enactment of a new Michigan R&D tax credit is a tremendous victory for the state’s life sciences and other high-tech industries that will spur company formation and economic growth,” said Dr. Stephen Rapundalo, President and CEO of MichBio. “This reestablishment, especially with its dedicated fund for early-stage ventures and an added premium for research university collaborations, is a huge step towards raising Michigan’s overall level of competitiveness in the life sciences and helping to incentivize development of the next generation of medical breakthroughs and products while creating high-wage jobs.”

House Bills 5651, 5652, and 5653, sponsored by state Representatives Greg VanWoerkom (R- Norton Shores), Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield), and Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn), support Michigan businesses and help attract potential investments to our state by establishing a Michigan Innovation Fund Program, allocating $60 million to fuel Michigan innovation. Currently, entrepreneurs and business startups face difficulties in Michigan due to a lack of early-stage capital. These bills align Michigan with our Midwest neighbors by creating an innovation fund that provides financial support for entrepreneurs and companies. Not only will existing businesses be able to thrive, but companies will be incentivized to locate to our state, expanding Michigan’s talent pool and fostering innovation and economic development across our communities.

“With this bill becoming law, we’re creating a cycle of opportunity that will generate good paying jobs and elevate Michiganders. We are creating stronger entrepreneurs and building up a foundation for local businesses,” said state Representative Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield). “Today, we ensured that Michigan remains a place where great ideas can thrive. The Michigan Innovation Fund will provide direct support to startups and job creators here at home.”

“I am proud to see the Michigan Innovation Fund cross the finish line, paving a better road forward for our state’s business startups to thrive,” said state Representative Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn). “This legislation will uplift small businesses across the state, creating more jobs and more family-supporting paychecks for workers. Michigan has an immense amount of homegrown entrepreneurial talent — we’re tapping into that resource to move our economy forward and keep establishing Michigan as a hub for innovation.”

“I truly believe the next great business is here in Michigan, and the Michigan Innovation Fund will play a vital role in advancing our state’s economic ecosystem and helping our entrepreneurs thrive,” said state Representative Greg VanWoerkom (R-Norton Shores).

“We’re so grateful for the vision and leadership shown by Governor Whitmer and the members of the Michigan legislature in creating the Michigan Innovation Fund,” said Santa J. Ono, President of the University of Michigan. “U-M is proudly a leader in research and innovation, but we can do so much more. Through this support, we will foster new collaborations between researchers and businesses, accelerating discovery and innovation, and driving economic growth and job creation like never before.”

“The Michigan Innovation Fund is a step to attract high-tech entrepreneurs and grow our economy and population – consistent with the Governor’s Grow Michigan Together Council report of 2024,” said Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber.

“Michigan was built by high flying entrepreneurs, and the Fund will be a valuable tool as we build our next generation of groundbreaking companies.”

“This investment in Michigan’s innovation economy would not have been possible without the support of leaders like Governor Whitmer, Lt. Governor Gilchrist, Representatives Alabas Farhat, Jason Hoskins, Greg VanWoerkom, and our coalition partners,” said Dave Blaszkiewicz, President and CEO of Invest Detroit. “As home to ID Ventures, one of the five evergreen funds supported by this program, Invest Detroit is proud to contribute to this effort. The Michigan Innovation Fund is a vital step in strengthening our start-up ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurs, and positioning Michigan as a leader in innovation and economic growth. This fund proves Michigan’s commitment to competing globally as a hub for talent and innovation and demonstrates what is possible when we unite around a shared vision for our future.”

“The Michigan Innovation Fund will bring historic support to Michigan’s startup economy, including northwest Michigan’s nationally-recognized startup and entrepreneurial community,” said Warren Call, president and CEO of Traverse Connect. “Innovative startups in Michigan are developing scalable businesses that will thrive and grow thanks to this important investment.”

Governor Whitmer speaks at bill signing press conference

Lt. Governor Gilchrist speaks at bill signing press conference

Governor Whitmer signs bill into law

Governor Whitmer and stakeholders celebrate bill signing

Consumer Alert on Scanner Law Protections

by Becky Andrus | Dec 17, 2024 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 17, 2024

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

State Attorney General Re-Issues Consumer Alert on Scanner Law Protections

Correction: The previous version of this release incorrectly listed the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Weights & Measures Section’s phone number. The correct phone number is 1-800-632-3835.

LANSING – As the holiday season kicks into high gear, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel continues her Holiday Scams campaign by re-issuing her Michigan Scanner Law consumer alert to remind consumers of their rights.

The Michigan Scanner Law, also known as the Shopping Reform and Modernization Act, has been in effect since 2011. It provides protections to consumers against overcharges and ensures transparency in pricing practices at retail establishments.

“Consumers deserve to trust the prices they see on store shelves and deserve to know that there are protections in place when errors occur,” said Nessel. “The scanner law helps ensure that retail pricing is fair and that retailers are held accountable for mispriced items.”

Among other provisions, the scanner law requires that the price of most items be clearly displayed, either through signs, electronic readers, or price stickers. This replaces the previous Item Pricing Act, allowing retailers to skip individually marking prices on items as long as prices are clearly visible where the items are located in the store.

Under the scanner law, consumers are eligible for compensation when they are charged more at checkout than the price displayed. If a scanner error results in an overcharge:

The consumer must notify the seller of the overcharge within 30 days of the transaction, either in person or in writing.
The seller must refund the difference between the displayed price and the price charged. Additionally, the seller may pay a “bonus” equal to ten times the difference. The bonus must be at least $1.00 but may not exceed $5.00.

If the seller fails to pay the refund and the bonus within two days of receiving notice, the consumer may sue for actual damages or $250.00, whichever is greater, plus reasonable attorney fees of up to $300.00.

For multiple identical items purchased in a single transaction, consumers receive the bonus for only one item but are refunded the price difference for each. Consumers must complete the transaction and have a receipt showing the overcharge to qualify for the bonus. If a clerk corrects the price before the transaction is completed, the bonus does not apply.

If a retailer fails to provide the required refund and bonus after notification, consumers may:

File a lawsuit in small claims court without an attorney.
Seek recovery of actual damages or $250.00 (whichever is greater), plus attorney fees of up to $300.00.

Certain items, such as unpackaged foods, live plants, motor vehicles and other items are exempt from the pricing display requirement under the scanner law.

Alcoholic beverages are covered by the scanner law but are also subject to minimum pricing regulations under the Liquor Control Code. Complaints related to alcohol pricing violations can be reported to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission at 517-284-6330. Consumers should consult an attorney for more information.

Complaints about scanner errors or improper or missing price displays can be directed to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Weights & Measures Section at 1-800-632-3835 or by mail at:

Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Weights & Measures Section
940 Venture Lane
Williamston, MI 48895

For additional resources, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at 877-765-8388.

Gov. Pardons Aidan Cluckinson, Rooting for a Lions Thanksgiving Win

by Becky Andrus | Nov 15, 2024 | Regional News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 14, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Pardons Aidan Cluckinson, Rooting for a Lions Thanksgiving Win

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer pardoned a turkey before Thanksgiving. The turkey’s name, Aidan Cluckinson, was submitted by Valentina, a young Michigander from South Lyon. The name was selected from nearly 4,500 entries in the statewide contest. Aidan Cluckinson is the third turkey pardoned since the governor took office.

“Today, we come together to continue our tradition of pardoning a turkey,” said Governor Whitmer. “This year’s winning name is Aidan Cluckinson, which was one of hundreds of submissions based on our beloved Detroit Lions. The team has really captured our hearts and made us all hopeful for a Super Bowl this year. This Thanksgiving, I hope everyone enjoys time with loved ones, finds a way to give back to the community, and keeps on cheering for our Lions.”

“As a lifelong Detroit Lions fan, I am thrilled to be here today to pardon Aidan Cluck-in-son,” said MDARD Director Boring. “He is the definition of true grit and never gets fouled. He will be joining all of us on Thanksgiving Day as the Detroit Lions take wing and fly to their next victory on the road to the Super Bowl.”

Last year, the governor pardoned Dolly Pardon, which was selected from more than 3,900 entries in the statewide contest. In 2022, the governor pardoned Mitch E. Gander.

Turkey 2

Turkey 1

OC Achieves LEED Gold in Environmental Leadership

by Becky Andrus | Aug 30, 2024 | Environmental

Oakland County Achieves LEED Gold in Environmental Leadership

Post Date:08/28/2024 3:40 PM

Oakland County earned LEED Gold^®certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
The USGBC recognizes the county’s commitment to social, economic and environmental sustainability practices.
Oakland County is part of a growing group of governments certified using the LEED for Cities & Communities rating system.

Pontiac, Mich. – The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has certified all of Oakland County as LEED^® Gold because of its commitment to improving holistic, county-wide sustainability practices.

The LEEDGold recognition means Oakland County earned high scores countywide for its green spaces, natural resource conservation and restoration efforts, as well as resilience and emergency planning. Many other factors are included in the measurement such as quality of life aspects including low unemployment rates, high education completion rates, favorable median air quality index numbers and low incidences of violent crimes.

Environmental sustainability is one of eight strategic goals by County Executive Dave Coulter’s administration that guide Oakland County.

“Oakland County’s achievement of LEED Gold certification underscores our deep commitment to sustainability and reflects County Executive Dave Coulter’s vision of fostering healthier, more resilient communities,” Chief Sustainability Officer Erin Quetell said. “This recognition is a testament to the county and its communities driving real, measurable change in environmental stewardship and quality of life for our residents.”

Local governments and communities achieve the certification by implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at improving sustainability and the standard of living for residents. LEED is designed to help buildings, communities and cities achieve high performance in key areas of social, economic and environmental sustainability.

During certification, communities implement plans to reduce their energy consumption, carbon emissions, and more to improve air and water quality, foster better health outcomes, and create green jobs. LEED also helps communities track and measure their efforts against key quality of life metrics, such as education, safety, prosperity and equitability.

Oakland County also earned gold certification for its environmental leadership from the statewide Michigan Green Communities (MGC) program in May.

About the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to transforming how buildings and communities are designed, built and operated to create thriving, healthy, equitable and resilient places that advance human and environmental wellbeing. USGBC leads market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, an international network of local community leaders, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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