DNR, Michigan State Police team up to fight wildland fires

An idea first conceived in 2016 has become reality – and likely will be a big help in fighting future wildland fires in Michigan. Earlier this month, a Michigan State Police UH-1 helicopter, known best as a “Huey,” hovered low over a northern Michigan lake to fill with water a 320-gallon collapsible bucket owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The Huey carried the water back to the fire area and released its load to calm the flames. The devices are commonly referred to by the trade name, “Bambi Bucket.” Though some assume the bucket’s name is somehow connected to the famed Disney deer, industry lore says that inventor Don Arney – a 2017 National Inventors Hall of Fame inductee – made up the name as a joke. It stuck. “It’s another important tool in the toolbox when it comes to fighting fires,” said Dan Laux, Fire Section manager for the DNR’s Forest Resources Division. “The Bambi Bucket can help in the early stages of a fire to keep it manageable, keep it small, especially in an area that’s hard to access.”

A cooperative effort years in the making

When a fire is burning hot, dropping water also can help cool it down so crews on the ground can get near it more safely. “We’ve worked with the DNR for years on different projects within Aviation and outside of Aviation, and this is further expanding the cooperation between the two agencies,” said Lt. Patrick Lawrence, chief pilot for the Michigan State Police Aviation Unit. The idea was initially presented to the State Police by former DNR Fire Section leader Jim Fisher and pilot Bill Green in 2016, both of whom have since retired. The Michigan State Police acquired the helicopter from federal military surplus. Flying with the bucket requires a crew of three – a pilot, a radio communicator and a bucket operator. Meanwhile, DNR fire staff worked to purchase the bucket, which costs about $25,000, with federal grant money. The two agencies also had to craft a plan for how the partnership would work. “This was a great opportunity to utilize existing aerial resources within the state for wildfire suppression. Michigan State Police and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources programs saw the mutual benefit of working together to protect natural resources, life and property during wildfire events. The addition of the Bambi Bucket adds to the long history of collaboration between the two agencies,” said Kevin Jacobs, DNR aviation manager. For the past couple of years, on days with high fire danger, the helicopter flies from its base in Lansing to stand by in Roscommon. From there it can respond quickly to places in the northern Lower Peninsula.

The results are effective

“We want to support both agencies where it makes sense, and this is absolutely an arena where working together is good for the people of Michigan and good for both agencies,” Lawrence said.

He flew the first mission May 9 as air support to contain a fire south of Kirtland Community College’s Roscommon campus.

“It felt good to support the guys on the ground and help them get the fire under control,” Lawrence said.

Laux said a second mission, on a fire near Grayling May 14, was also effective.

“It was a huge save in keeping that fire under 20 acres,” he said.

So far in 2022, the DNR has worked to suppress 138 fires covering more than 2,900 acres across the state. Learn more about the department’s wildland firefighting efforts at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.

Note to editors: Accompanying photos are available below for download. Caption information follows.

• Helicopter and bucket:  A helicopter owned by the Michigan State Police is paired with a “Bambi Bucket” that is used to scoop water to fight wildland fires. Photo credit: Michigan State Police.
• Action! The Michigan State Police UH-1 or “Huey” helicopter drops a 320-gallon load of water over the forest. In an example of interagency cooperation, the helicopter is used with a DNR-owned water-scooping bucket to fight wildland fires. Photo credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
• Video: The helicopter drops a load of water. Video credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

May 26, 2022
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Gov. Whitmer celebrates partnership with Adopt a Charger, Rivian to install electric vehicle chargers in Michigan state parks

Installation at Holland State Park kicks off phased state park EV charging installations as part of Lake Michigan EV Circuit and across the state

Near the beautiful, sandy beaches of Lake Michigan at Holland State Park, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today joined state and local officials and representatives from Adopt a Charger and electric vehicle automaker Rivian to celebrate the first of approximately 15 electric vehicle charging sites to be installed at state parks and a state fish hatchery in Michigan over the next few years.

Two Rivian Waypoints chargers were unveiled today at the 142-acre state park in Ottawa County, followed by an inaugural charge featuring a Rivian R1T pickup.

“This partnership to install charging stations in our state parks speaks to the collaborative approach we are taking to grow our economy and address climate change head-on through clean, reliable energy,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “These charging stations along the Lake Michigan EV Circuit build on our rich Pure Michigan tradition of exploration and bringing together communities and businesses to ensure that we honor our past as the place that put the world on wheels and continue to invest in our workforce as we lead the transition to electric vehicles. Together, we will keep growing our economy, creating good-paying jobs, and lowering costs for drivers and working families.”

Rivian, an electric vehicle maker and automotive technology company, under an operating agreement between Adopt a Charger and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, will be providing open-network, Level 2 Rivian Waypoints chargers at no cost to the state or taxpayers.

“We applaud the state for continuing to adopt policies that keep Michigan at the forefront of innovative electric mobility which is why we’re proud to take our collaboration with the state up a notch today at Holland State Park,” said Chris Nevers, Senior Director of Public Policy at Rivian. “Our state parks charging program is how we come together with our partners to offer a solution to EV-charging gaps. We’re making this investment because we believe that exploring the natural world should be possible without contributing to local air pollution, climate change, or damaging the environment.”

Adopt a Charger, a nonprofit organization, will provide technical, marketing and sponsorship support for the operation of the chargers throughout the duration of the agreement. ITC, an electric transmission company, will provide the funding for the electrical use for two years. Consumers Energy, through the Power MI Drive program, is providing the funds to pay for upgrades to the electrical systems at state parks necessary for charger installation.

From Warren Dunes State Park in the southwest corner of the Lower Peninsula, north along the Lake Michigan “gold coast” and additional points inland, an estimated total of 30 chargers are scheduled to be installed as part of the first phase of the project with the next installations beginning in summer and continuing through the year.

“This project will not only benefit Michigan in the near term but will also pay dividends far into the future as we move toward a sustainable energy future,” DNR Director Dan Eichinger said. “From these EV charging stations, to installations of solar arrays that power fish hatcheries and other facilities, to building with mass timber and our innovative carbon sequestration development, we are working to improve the environment as we update our own portfolio.”

The state park charger installations deliver on Gov. Whitmer’s announcement in 2021 of a Lake Michigan EV circuit, an electric vehicle route with reliable charging options along Lake Michigan and key tourism clusters, creating the best new road-trip for EV owners in America. The Lake Michigan EV Circuit is part of ongoing efforts, such as the Charge Up Michigan program, to employ green technologies throughout the state, including solar-powered amenities, carbon sequestration and numerous efficiencies.

One example of this are solar panels recently installed at Holland State Park by Utopian Power, on a building adjacent to the electric vehicle chargers. The arrays will provide power for some of the park functions.

“As the transition to an electrified mobility future continues to accelerate, innovative initiatives like these are vital to ensuring EVs can be more easily incorporated into our everyday lives, regardless of where you are in the state,” said Trevor Pawl, Chief Mobility Officer with the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification. “By identifying creative partnerships and opportunities, we are making significant progress in creating a safer, more equitable and environmentally conscious transportation future for all Michiganders.”

The ability to link state parks with electric vehicle travelers will benefit both parties by increasing the number of visitors at parks, while providing convenience and significantly increasing range for EV motorists. Rivian’s Level 2 Waypoints chargers are equipped with a J1772 plug, suitable for all electric vehicles including Rivian’s R1T pickup and R1S SUV.

The rollout of the accessible chargers across the state is being done in phases. State parks in the Upper Peninsula are scheduled to be part of the second phase, targeted to take place next year.

The tentative list of installations for this year includes two Rivian Waypoints chargers at Warren Dunes (Berrien County), P.J. Hoffmaster (Muskegon County), Charles Mears (Oceana County), Ludington (Mason County), Orchard Beach (Manistee County), Leelanau (Leelanau County), Young (Charlevoix County), Petoskey (Emmet County), Wilderness (Emmet County) and Interlochen (Grand Traverse County) state parks, four at Holland and Grand Haven state parks, both in Ottawa County, and two at the Oden State Fish Hatchery in Emmet County. Installations are anticipated in subsequent years at Palms Book State Park (Schoolcraft County) and Fayette Historic State Park (Delta County).

As Michigan continues to welcome travelers to the state, increased access to EV charging sites is one way to continue to bring new leisure travelers to the state.
With tourism one of the industries hit hardest by the impacts of COVID-19, the Lake Michigan EV circuit builds on the continued success of the state’s Pure Michigan campaign to help the industry recover by offering an exciting ecotourism attraction and reducing range anxiety for out-of-state EV drivers from population centers along Lake Michigan, like Chicago and Milwaukee.

To learn more about how Michigan is leading in transportation mobility and electrification, visit MichiganBusiness.org/Mobility/.

Additional partner quotes:

“The Adopt a Charger goal is to enable zero emission tourism in Michigan, and inspire visitors of all ages to consider the impact of their decisions on the environment,” said Kitty Adams Hoksbergen, executive director of Adopt a Charger. “I am grateful to everyone at DNR for proactively planning and offering EV charging at state parks, and to Rivian for their generosity in making it happen. Thanks to ITC for sponsoring the electrical usage so EV motorists can charge their vehicles fee-free for the first two years. I grew up camping with my family at Michigan State Parks, and am grateful to be promoting what I believe in while supporting the places special to me.”

“Consumers Energy is excited to work with Governor Whitmer and Rivian to help launch the Lake Michigan circuit of EV charging infrastructure. Our PowerMIDrive program analyzed the network needed to support EV charging and to optimize the final locations, collaborating with the State of Michigan to help enable charging ports that will be installed in a number of state parks,” said Jeff Myrom, Consumers Energy’s director of electric vehicle programs. “Consumers Energy’s partnership with the State of Michigan will help enable Pure Michigan tourism and convenient charging infrastructure over the largest segment of the Lake Michigan Circuit.”

“Today’s announced partnership between the DNR and Adopt a Charger fits nicely with MDOT’s goal to enhance connectivity,” said Michigan Department of Transportation Director Paul C. Ajegba. “This also compliments the ongoing work by MDOT and our colleagues in other state departments to deliver on a vision for a Lake Michigan Electric Vehicle Circuit.”

“These EV chargers are an important way to encourage sustainable travel across our state, while sharing the tremendous beauty and recreation offered by our world class state parks here in Michigan,” said Dave Lorenz, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “As we encourage travelers to Pursue their Pure this summer, ensuring easy, reliable access to EV charging helps us continue to share these amazing opportunities with new travelers.”

DNR partners with McDonald’s of Michigan for summer-long safe boating campaign

Just in time for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and McDonald’s of Michigan are teaming up again to increase awareness about the importance of boater safety and wearing a life jacket. It’s also National Safe Boating Week (May 21-27), a week devoted to promoting responsible boating and encouraging boaters to always wear life jackets while on the water. From Memorial Day weekend through the Labor Day holiday, conservation officers will pass out vouchers to youth and teen boaters who are observed appropriately wearing a life jacket while actively boating. The vouchers are valid for a free ice cream cone or apple slice package at participating McDonald’s of Michigan locations. “It was great seeing kids (and their parents) get so excited, and have a positive law enforcement interaction, last year when our officers rewarded them for being safe on the water,” said Lt. Tom Wanless, state boating law administrator and recreational safety, education and enforcement supervisor with the DNR. “A fun day of boating begins with safety. A tasty treat on the way home is a great way to end the day. We hope parents will use this as an opportunity to discuss the importance of boating safety with their kids.” In 2020, the U.S. Coast Guard reported drowning as the cause of death in 75% of national boating-related fatalities. Statistics specific to Michigan for the same year include: 159 boating accidents. 29 deaths involved in boating accidents. More than $2,204,000 in damage. Boating with an operator who has completed an approved boating safety course and wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket are two ways to reduce the risk of recreational boating accidents and drownings. If you plan to operate a boat in Michigan – and you were born after June 30, 1996 – you need a boating safety certificate. If you were born after Dec. 31, 1978, and plan 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 basic survival skills. Wanless encourages everyone, before leaving shore, to get up to date on boating laws and regulations and ensure that boats and personal watercrafts (such as Jet Skis) – and life jackets and other safety gear – are shipshape. “Taking time to make sure you’re boating safely now can prevent potential problems later,” Wanless said. “Accidents can happen at any time and weather can quickly affect water conditions on inland waters and the Great Lakes. Familiarizing yourself and your fellow boaters with valuable safety tips and equipment can mean the difference between a great day on the water and a needlessly tragic outcome.” McDonald’s coupons are valid at participating McDonald’s of Michigan locations. Learn more about boating opportunities, safety information and other resources at Michigan.gov/Boating.

Note to editors: Accompanying photos are available below for download. Caption information follows.

Boating: Conservation Officers Thomas Jaakkola (left) and Mike Drexler (right) gave vouchers for free McDonald’s treats to two children who were spotted wearing life jackets while boating on Bruin Lake, located in Washtenaw County, during September 2021.

Honoring current, fallen conservation officers during National Police Week; memorial dedication Tuesday in Roscommon

Serving as a Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer is a physically and mentally demanding career that requires a huge commitment from both the officers and their families. During National Police Week (May 15-21) – and especially National Peace Officers Memorial Day this Sunday – the DNR is proud to recognize the more than 200 conservations currently serving our state. “Michigan’s conservation officers protect and serve our people, parks and public lands,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “Choosing to answer the call of public service is a noble act, and today, we honor every conservation officer who has served and those we have lost in the line of duty. Every Michigander and visitor who enjoys our great outdoors knows how invaluable our conservation officers are. They are professional, personable and always eager to help people of all ages. They keep us safe, protect our pristine natural resources and represent our highest values.” Chief Dave Shaw, DNR Law Enforcement Division, said that part of being a conservation officer is being an embedded and trustworthy community member. “Officers and their families are often approached at the store, in school and at sporting events by neighbors eager to ask questions about new regulations, learn where the fish are biting or confirm rumors of a local trophy buck,” he said. “Our job relies on these positive relationships and doesn’t stop at the end of a shift.” Game wardens, now referred to as conservation officers, have protected Michigan’s natural resources since 1887. Since then, 16 officers have lost their lives because of an incident that occurred in the line of duty. “Through advanced technology, equipment and training, we’ve come a long way to ensure officers have what they need to stay safe,” Shaw said. “What remains constant, though, are the rural and remote woods and waterways officers patrol, often alone and in inclement weather. There are inherent risks involved in performing the duties of a conservation officer, and we will always support the families of our fallen officers.” May 17 memorial event DNR staff and family and friends will mark the week with a ceremony Tuesday, May 17, to dedicate the recently completed memorial to Michigan’s fallen conservation officers. Located on the grounds of the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center, 104 Conservation Drive, in Roscommon, the 7-foot-wide by 6-foot-tall granite memorial includes the names of Michigan’s 16 conservation officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The ceremony starts at 2 p.m. and will include a rifle salute and remarks from DNR representatives and the Michigan Conservation Officers Association. Family members of fallen officers also will be welcome to speak, if they choose. Media are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Katie Gervasi at [email protected]. “The Michigan Fallen Conservation Officers memorial is a place to preserve and honor our state’s fallen conservation officers,” said Jessie Curtis, president of the Michigan Conservation Officers Association. “This memorial will serve as a tribute to the Michigan conservation officers who died or were killed as a result of an incident that occurred during the line of duty, and who will never be forgotten.” Included among those 16 are two officers, Elgin McDonough and Karl Zimmermann, who were killed together in a vehicle collision Dec. 21, 1932, but whose rightful association with the fallen officers memorial was discovered only last year. In 2021, the DNR was notified by the Officer Down Memorial Page of McDonough and Zimmermann, who were at the time unrecognized by the department due to the details of their deaths having been lost in a 1951 building fire that destroyed 25,000 documents and damaged another 30,000 documents. Earlier this year, McDonough and Zimmermann were added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C. Visit Michigan.gov/DNRFallenOfficers to learn more about the officers who lost their lives in service to the state. Michigan conservation officers are fully commissioned law enforcement officers who provide natural resources protection, ensure recreational safety and protect residents through general law enforcement and lifesaving operations in the communities they serve.

Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows. Credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Memorial: The recently completed granite memorial to Michigan’s 16 fallen conservation officers, on the grounds of the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon.