Michigan waterfowl hunting affected by drought
10/16/2025 1:58:52 PM
CATEGORIES:
Plants & Wildlife
Relief, Response & Restrictions
Tourism & Recreation
Water Supply & Quality
AFFECTED AREAS:
Michigan
Bay County, MI
Clinton County, MI
Gratiot County, MI
Ionia County, MI
Isabella County, MI
Mecosta County, MI
Midland County, MI
Newaygo County, MI
Oceana County, MI
Start Date: 10/16/2025
-
Michigan’s worst drought in a decade is affecting waterfowl hunting at a state game area. Wetlands in the Maple River State Game Area, some of the best waterfowl hunting habitat in Michigan, were dry due to a lack of precipitation, impacting habitat for birds and access points for boats as well as sufficient water for boating. Units E, X, and Y were expected to remain dry for most of the season. Units A and B, which can usually accommodate boats, may not be able to do so in 2025.
Normally, water could be pumped from the Maple River into the wetlands to increase the water level and attract more waterfowl, but the river is much below normal.
FOX 2 Detroit (Mich.), Oct 16, 2025
Sources
