The Michigan Natural Resources Commission may not have authority over Consumers Energy’s plan to sell 13 dams, but it wants to have a voice.
Laura Herberg
Laura Herberg covers outdoor recreation, wildlife and the natural environment for Bridge Michigan as the Outdoors Life reporter on the environmental team. She came to Bridge from Outlier Media and built her career at WDET, where she produced talk shows, anchored the news and hosted podcasts. Named the Michigan Associated Press Best Reporter for Radio Broadcasting four times, Laura holds a master's degree in urban planning from Wayne State University.
A Pacific Northwest native who has also lived in West Virginia and Scotland, Laura has called Detroit home since 2010.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan lags US in outdoor economy growth, report says
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis has released its latest outdoor recreation economic statistics. The outdoor industry’s contribution to Michigan’s economy grew in 2024 over the previous year, but at a slower rate than most other states.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Groups running out of time to raise millions to save unique Michigan prairie
A 440-acre section of Sibley Prairie in Brownstown Township was listed for auction, putting the rare plants found there at risk of development. Now, environmental groups are working with the owner to buy and preserve the land. But they need to raise millions of dollars to complete the deal.
Posted inOutdoors Life
US plans to clear-cut in Michigan forest. Some fear for endangered species
The US Forest Service is proposing a project in the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that would involve logging, gravel mining expansion and forest restoration efforts.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Want to see what a ski jumper sees? Michigan project would make it easier
A new elevator at the Pine Mountain Ski Jump would make it easier for tourists to reach the top of the jump and take in the views. But organizers need about $1 million to finish it up.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Animal rights group sues Michigan over coyote killing seasons
Humane World for Animals says the Michigan Natural Resources Commission’s vote to allow year-round coyote killing is not based on science.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Snowmobile race coming to the Soo. Meet the Michigan ‘troll’ in charge
Ric Federau is the longest serving chair of the International 500 snowmobile race in Sault Ste. Marie, but he’s from south of the Mackinac Bridge.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan sees record cougar reports in 2025
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources confirmed 31 cougar observations in 2025 and the number is expected to go up. That doesn’t necessarily mean there are more cougars in the state, but at least one family is established here.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Armadillos in Michigan? Officials aren’t sure but mull killing season
In a recent meeting, state wildlife regulators said armadillos are in Michigan, but some officials say they don’t think the animals are established here — yet.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan approves electronic kill tags for hunters. How will they work?
Michigan’s Natural Resources Commission voted Wednesday to give hunters the option to use electronic kill tags. Here’s what you need to know.