The House Committee on Natural Resources has recommended adoption of a plan by State Rep. Gary Howell (R-North Branch) to create a pheasant stamp that will be used to pay for pheasant releases in state game areas as well as pheasant habitat improvement.

“If we restore high-quality pheasant hunting opportunities, we are not only going to see the return of hunters who have left the sport, but we hope to see a new generation of hunters as well,” said Howell. “This will introduce entry-level hunters to a great sport and encourage large game hunters to expand their outdoor enjoyment. It’s a win-win situation.”

Howell’s plan would amend the statute which currently requires hunters to have a base license to hunt small game. Under Howell’s measure, anyone who is 16 years of age or older would have the option to purchase a $25 pheasant stamp in order to hunt pheasants.

The change will benefit a newly-created fund for the release of pheasants on state-owned lands. The fund will be available upon appropriation through the Department of Natural Resources.
Michigan hunters once shot over one million pheasants per year when the birds were plentiful across the state. Michigan pheasant hunters now harvest less than 60,000 roosters annually, representing a 95% decrease.

“If something is not done soon, Michigan’s pheasant hunting heritage is going to be lost,” Howell said. “Too many young hunters are completely bypassing small game hunting due to the lack of pheasant opportunities. It is my sincere hope and belief that this legislation will help bridge this gap and bring new hunters outdoors.”

Under Howell’s plan, it is anticipated that hunters will travel to state game areas in counties like Lapeer, spending money on food, gas, and hunting supplies – to the benefit of local businesses.

Howell credited the volunteer members of The Michigan Pheasant Hunting Initiative for encouraging this plan. Several Lapeer County residents, including Carl Griffin of Imlay Township and Ken Dalton of Arcadia Township, were instrumental in getting the plan to this point.

The plan now moves to the House Committee on Judiciary for further consideration.