UP Gazette

A group of Northern Michigan legislators has expressed concerns over actions taken by the state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which they claim have restricted freedoms and endangered livelihoods. These concerns were brought to light during a joint committee hearing that further examined the DNR's practices.

The House Oversight subcommittee recently heard testimonies regarding the DNR's Invasive Species Order, focusing on its enforcement against pig farmers and game ranch owners. Witnesses testified that the DNR has employed undercover agents to infiltrate farms and eliminate pigs, rather than collaborating with farm owners. Some farmers have been compelled to slaughter their pigs if they resembled what the department vaguely classifies as a "Russian boar," a term lacking a precise definition. It was noted that some of these animals, including sows, did not meet any classification as boars.

A presentation during the hearing highlighted a significant reduction in pig ranches in Michigan, from 75 to five since the order's implementation in 2012. The discussion continued on Wednesday with U.P. farmers and local officials sharing their experiences.

State Rep. David Prestin, R-Cedar River, commented on the situation: “At the end of the day, this is about bureaucracy not wanting industry to survive... The DNR is just running around threatening honest game farm operations with scary-looking pigs.”

State Rep. Karl Bohnak, R-Deerton, added: “I’m pleased to see the U.P. get a chance to tell its unique story of government overreach... We need a government focused on working for us, not going after us.”

Additionally, testimony was given by musician and Michigan outdoorsman Ted Nugent regarding accountability within the DNR.

State Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, remarked: “This hearing was yet another example of the gigantic disconnect between bureaucracy in Lansing and our U.P. way of life... We must continue to protect people’s livelihoods and our state’s heritage of outdoor recreation.”