Michigan is the Great Lakes State! Whether you own a boat, plan to own one someday or you simply tag along with family and friends, we want your input.

The online boating survey will help the DNR make decisions about amenities in Michigan's public boat launches and harbors. The survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete, and your answers are kept confidential.

*In addition to the above survey, we are looking for feedback from boaters who have stayed at a harbor that uses the reservation system. Keep an eye on your inbox and tell us about your stay. We want your input on Michigan harbor and marina experiences to better understand how to meet the needs of our boaters. 

As summer takes hold, the DNR warns of the hidden dangers of Electric Shock Drowning (or ESD). 

Did you know that you are at risk by entering the water near a boat or dock powered by electricity? ESD can be deadly and is the result of a person coming into contact with an electrical current in the water. Stray voltage can come from boats or docks with faulty wiring, frayed cords and devices not approved as shore- or marine-rated. It can cause complete loss of muscle control, the inability to move and, ultimately, lead to drowning. Learn how to protect you and your family at michigan.gov/boating.

Michigan is known for all of its freshwater destinations and the Great Lakes State is packed full of water-centric events in harbors and waterside towns near you. It's a great way to tap into resources, make connections and build a sense of community around boating.

Additional event listings can be found at boatmichigan.org.

• Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac (July 15 to 18)
• Bayview Mackinac Race (July 22)
• Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival (July 28-Aug. 6)

Grand Haven Coat Guard Festival cardboard boat races (pictured)

Invasive bighead and silver carp are a looming threat to the Great Lakes and Michigan’s waters. These large fish can reach up to 100 pounds and produce 1 million eggs. Invasive carp are voracious feeders and would disrupt the food chain supporting native walleye, yellow perch and lake whitefish. Silver carp leap into the air when startled by boat motors, often hitting and sometimes injuring boaters.

Boaters and anglers are asked to keep an eye out for unusual fish and to always inspect purchased live bait. For tips on identifying and reporting invasive carp, visit michigan.gov/invasivecarp. Remember to dispose of live bait in the trash – never dump it into the water. 

Michigan’s Invasive Carp Challenge - Do you have an idea for an innovative way to prevent invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes? Proposed solutions are being accepted at michigan.gov/carpchallenge.