DNR Events: birding tours, Say Yes to Michigan Day, hands-on classes & more

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DNR Events - March 2020

bluebird on a tree branch

Here are a few ways to get out and enjoy Michigan’s natural and cultural resources in March. For a full list of events, see the Department of Natural Resources calendar at Michigan.gov/DNRCalendar


Spring birding tours at Michigan’s Wetland Wonders

flock of waterfowl in flight

Celebrate spring and explore Michigan’s wetlands with a birding tour at one of the Wetland Wonders near you. Highlights of the tours may include diving and dabbling ducks in full breeding plumage, trumpeter and tundra swans, osprey, bald eagles, sandhill cranes and many more. There also could be a “sneak peek” driving tour into refuge areas that are normally closed! 

The birding tours will be held on the following dates:

  • Saturday, March 28, at:
    • Allegan State Game Area in Allegan County
    • Fish Point State Game Area in Tuscola County
    • Maple River State Game Area in Gratiot County
  • Saturday, April 4, at:
    • St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area in St. Clair County
    • Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area in Bay County
    • Pointe Mouillee State Game Area in Wayne County
  • Sunday, April 5, at Shiawassee River State Game Area in Saginaw County
  • Saturday, April 11, at Muskegon County Wastewater System in Muskegon County

More details about spring birding tours.


Say Yes to Michigan Day at Michigan History Museum

Two women dressed as Rosie the Riveter discuss voting with a woman dressed as a 1920s suffragette.

The Michigan History Museum in Lansing will host Say Yes to Michigan Day Saturday, March 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celebrate the real stories of Michigan at this free, family-friendly event. Commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, have a laugh with state symbol-themed puppets by Mullin Entertainment and contribute to the museum's community painting project. Kids (and kids at heart!) will have a blast exploring the unique things Michigan is known for through games, demonstrations, scavenger hunts and hands-on activities. What are you waiting for? Say “YES!” and bring the whole family to this unforgettable celebration of our state.

Free admission to this event is made possible by Michiganology. Each purchase from Michiganology.com supports free public event days like this one at the Michigan History Center.

Some activities at Say Yes to Michigan Day are made possible in part by a grant from Michigan Humanities.


Learn about turkey hunting, bluebirds and more with hands-on classes

man sitting in chair making a snowshoe

Ever wanted to learn how to ice fish or turkey hunt? Or maybe you’d like to get some tips on bringing bluebirds to your backyard or build a pair of snowshoes? You’re in luck this March!

Registration is open for the following DNR Outdoor Skills Academy classes:

The Outdoor Skills Academy offers in-depth, expert instruction, gear and hands-on learning for a range of outdoor activities at locations around the state.

See a full calendar of classes at Michigan.gov/OutdoorSkills.


Lumberjack Day, reading and more at Outdoor Adventure Center

group dressed in lumberjack attire

March is filled with family fun at the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit.

March is National Reading Month, and several local authors will visit throughout the month – with Reading Month programs March 1, 8, 14 and 29 – for book readings and other activities.

March 28 is Lumberjack Day at the OAC, featuring maple syrup treats, a two-man saw competition, chainsaw artists in action and other forest-related fun. Sign up for the annual Lumberjack 5k & .5k Pancake Fun Run. After the run, you’ll have the opportunity to dive into a pile of pancakes covered in Michigan maple syrup and show off your unique lumberjack style in the best-dressed competition!

Other March events include the 313 Celebration March 14, making a DIY toad house March 21 or a pollinator hotel March 22, archery programs and many more.

Check out the Outdoor Adventure Center events calendar for more details.


Remember your life jacket this spring

If you’ll be boating or kayaking this spring, don’t forget to wear your life jacket. Water levels are high, and water temperatures are cold. Melting snow and ice will increase water levels and debris in the water and may create strong or unusual currents. Learn more about boating safety.

Outdoor recreation for people of all abilities

People of all abilities can enjoy Michigan's wealth of natural and cultural resources. You can find a variety of accessible recreation opportunities at state parks, campgrounds, hunting areas, trails, beaches, kayak launches, fishing piers, historic sites, shooting ranges and more.