Americans are growing more interested in green burial, which eschews embalming and non-biodegradable caskets in favor of natural decomposition. But in west Michigan, controversy over a proposed green cemetery pits neighbor-against-neighbor.
Rural Michigan
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Fruit trees are budding, Michigan farmers are worried about crops freezing
An unseasonably warm winter, coupled with cold temperatures and heavy precipitation during the spring, are a dangerous combination for fruit farmers. Some have started to take measures to prevent crops from freezing.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Groups sue Michigan wildlife regulators over shorter coyote hunting season
State wildlife officials shortened the season by three months to keep hunters from orphaning pups in the den. But two hunting and trapping advocacy groups argue that decision was illegal.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan updates fishing regulations for 2024 season. What you need to know
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has updated its fishing regulations for this season. Here is everything you need to know about the new regulations, which went into effect Monday.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
For Michigan farmers, danger is another part of the job
In 2021, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting accounted for 16% of the state’s workplace fatalities by industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Solar Eclipse 2024: The only Michigan town that is in the path of totality
A total solar eclipse will occur on April 8 and officials in Monroe County are working together to prepare for the mass of people traveling south to Luna Pier or Toledo to see it.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Bill would give Michigan residents dibs on campsite reservations at state parks
A state representative has introduced a bill that would allow Michigan residents to reserve campsites at state parks up to two weeks before the inventory is opened to non-residents.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan shortens coyote hunting season, irking some hunters
State regulators have shortened Michigan’s coyote hunting season from year-round to nine months, hoping to avoid killing parents while their pups are in the den. Not everyone likes the change.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
In drug-ravaged northern Michigan, there’s money for help. But few counselors
Michigan is receiving $1.5 billion from an opioid settlement. Up North, experts worry that housing and worker shortages will make it hard to put the money to good use and help users.
Posted inMichigan Government
Northern Michigan, after years of struggle, is gaining residents again
The growth is small but conclusive: Northern Michigan areas like Crawford County, whose population had declined since 2000, gaining residents. West Michigan leads the pack, while metro Detroit is hit hard.