UPDATE TO MARCH 3, 2021, SENATE NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING

While a decision was not made regarding Senate Resolution 20 during the Natural Resources Committee meeting on March 3, we remain optimistic that Sandhill Crane will not become a game species in Michigan. In response to testimony heard, Senator McBroom has delayed the NRC’s decision on SR 20 until census data that was cited in the resolution can be verified.

If you weren’t able to watch the meeting live, don’t worry. You can view it at: http://ow.ly/IHEI50DPqD3.

We thank all of you who voiced your concern for this species, both individually and on behalf of organizations, and we hope you will continue to rise to the occasion as further advocacy is needed. 

The fight is certainly not over. As legislation progresses on this issue, we will be sure to keep you informed through action alerts, social posts, and more.


Tell your Senator and the Senate Natural Resources Committee to OPPOSE Senate Resolution 20 on March 3, 2021

Chapters, Members, and Friends,

In our 117-year history, Michigan Audubon has persistently protected and advocated for the Sandhill Crane, and you have helped us do so. Today, we’re asking for your help in swiftly acting to oppose a Michigan Senate resolution to designate the Sandhill Crane a game species and establish a Sandhill Crane hunting season in Michigan. 

The science hasn’t changed, and neither has the logic behind protecting the Sandhill Crane under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Sandhill Crane is NOT a suitable game species in the state of Michigan, period.

On Wednesday, March 3, 2021, at 8:30 a.m., the Michigan Senate Natural Resources Committee will hear Senate Resolution 20, which encourages the Michigan Natural Resources Commission to authorize sport hunting of the Sandhill Crane. 

The senators proposing this resolution have fast-tracked it to avoid public input — don’t let them avoid hearing your voice and open fire on Michigan Sandhill Cranes.

You can help Michigan’s Sandhill Cranes by taking the following actions right away: 

  1. Call your state senator and ask them to oppose Senate Resolution 20. You can ask your senator for a follow-up email or call to let you know how they plan to urge the Senate Natural Resources Committee to vote on SR 20 on March 3.
  2. Write a statement opposing SR 20 and email it to the Senate Natural Resources Committee at ofcscc@senate.michigan.gov on or before March 2, 2021.
  3. Share the word, resources, and links below on social media or with your friends on email. 

Michigan Audubon Chapters

Your chapter’s name WILL be listed on Michigan Audubon’s letter opposing SR 20. Your chapter leadership is encouraged to consider writing and submitting additional statements opposing SR 20 as well before the hearing on March 3. Please encourage your members and supporters to do the same! 

Groups or Organizations Not Officially Affiliated with Michigan Audubon

We invite you to reach out if you would like to sign on to Michigan Audubon’s official statement that will be shared via testimony on March 3. If your group wants to sign on, please let us know at birds@michiganaudubon.org before 10 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27.