Michigan state parks news - June 2023

Michigan is currently experiencing unprecedented hot and dry conditions, causing extreme fire danger.

While we desperately await some much-needed rainfall, it's important to note that you could be the difference between a campfire and a wildfire.?As of today, there is not a statewide or regionwide burn ban in place. However, we strongly suggest you refrain from any outdoor burning at this time. If you do decide to have a campfire, be sure to:

• Keep a water source next to your campfire.
• Properly extinguish your campfire when you are finished by dousing with water and stirring dirt in with a shovel.
• Use the back of your hand to detect if heat is still coming from the fire or ring. If you can feel heat, the fire is not out. Douse and stir again.
• Spray down the metal ring of your campfire. The heat from that can cause dry grass to catch fire.
• Never leave your fire unattended, not even for a minute.
• Call 911 immediately if you see a wildfire.

Visit the DNR's fire conditions page to find a fire danger map, prevention tips and more.

Have a holding tank on your recreational vehicle or boat? The power to make a difference for Michigan is right there.

Many holding tank deodorizers contain formaldehyde (an Environmental Protection Agency-recognized carcinogen), metals and/or other harmful chemicals that?pollute soil and groundwater, produce toxic fumes and corrode pipes and tanks.?These chemicals can also cause septic system failures that can force the closures of sanitation stations until the problem can be corrected.

Fortunately, there are (non-chemical-based) biodegradable tank deodorizers on the market and other things you can do to protect the outdoors. Learn ways to get wastewater smart!

From hauling kayaks in a pick-up truck to now operating a multi-location business encouraging outdoor exploration, Simple Adventures?proves that a partnership with the DNR can be good for business.

Founded by Becky Quinn and initially started with two kayaks in the back of her vehicle, the company rents a variety of paddling equipment and/or bikes at Fort Custer Recreation Area, Interlochen State Park, Grand Haven State Park and Belle Isle Park. This past winter, Simple Adventures expanded to the?Porkies Winter Sports Complex?where the business includes the Fireside Grill, a gift shop, rentals, shuttle service, events and more.

That philosophy has helped grow business in each location,?including doubling revenue at Interlochen State Park in the business' first year at the park ? a great outcome for both Simple Adventures and the DNR.

If you're interested in learning about operating a business in a state park or want to register for alerts on upcoming bid opportunities, visit Michigan.gov/StateParkConcessions.

The outdoors is here for everyone, and we?re thrilled that you?ve found a place that you love to explore! Having record numbers of visitors over the past few years is exciting, but it can be hard on the resources.?

Recreate Responsibly is a set of guidelines to help protect yourself and the outdoors, so we can all work together to maintain these natural spaces. Some of these guidelines include knowing trail etiquette, following posted rules, keeping wildlife wild, being respectful of other people's space, and leashing and cleaning up after pets.?

We need your help to protect these public lands so they are around for future generations to enjoy.?To learn about more ways that you can recreate responsibly, visit Michigan.gov/RecreateResponsibly.

To boost awareness of changing conditions and to save lives,?there's been a change to the Great Lakes beach flag warning system.

If you see double red flags at a state-designated swim beach at a state park along the Great Lakes, you are not allowed to enter the water.

A?DNR land order makes it illegal to enter the water when there is risk to human health and safety, including hazardous waves and/or dangerous water conditions, active rescue or recovery efforts, and environmental hazards.?

Visit Michigan.gov/BeachSafety for tips and information on safely visiting the Great Lakes, including state-designated swim beach locations, the beach flag warning system, Great Lakes currents (and how to escape them) and more.?