ESA 40th anniversary logoThis year marks the 40th anniversary of Michigan's Endangered Species Act, the important legislation that has been critical to the recovery of many different species. The Department of Natural Resources is celebrating this milestone with a week of programming in several of Michigan's state parks.

Threatened and Endangered Species Week, running Aug. 4-10, will feature opportunities to learn more about some of Michigan's threatened and endangered species through hikes, guided activities and much more. These fun, educational programs are great for the whole family.

On July 11, 1974, Gov. William Milliken signed the Endangered Species Act into law, and it took effect Sept. 1, 1974. The law has been immensely beneficial to the DNR and its conservation partners by enabling protection and management of rare species across the state.

Since the act was signed into law, the DNR has partnered with many other conservation organizations and federal agencies to help recover listed species. Important species that have been recovered and removed from the state's threatened and endangered species list include the gray wolf, bald eagle, peregrine falcon and osprey.

Threatened and Endangered Species Week programs will be offered at many state parks and recreation areas around the state. To find a program near you, visit www.michigan.gov/natureprograms and click on "Threatened & Endangered Species Week August 4-10."
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Contact: Karen Gourlay, 248-349-3858 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815