Michigan’s elk population is no different than those anywhere else. It needs quality habitat to thrive.
In May 2025, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Michigan Department of Natural Resources concluded a three-year project in the heart of the state’s elk range to restore a chunk of historic mix of grassland and pine barrens habitat.
Both organizations provided funding, coupled with Pittman-Robertson hunter dollars.
The 63-acre site was overgrown with an unmanageable thicket of black cherry, which prevented the growth of grass, forbs and other vegetation desirable by elk, whitetail deer, wild turkey, grouse and other upland birds.
With a plan of attack in place, contractors first used a mulcher in January of 2023 to remove the woody overgrowth.
Four months later, with the snow gone and during ideal burning conditions, crews used prescribed fire to remove other undesirable vegetation. The combination of those two treatments stimulated the growth of native forbs and grasses.
In September of that same year, workers planted field rye – a cool season cereal grain with the ability to quicky germinate and spread.
Mulching took place again in the spring of 2024 followed by additional plantings that spring, fall and in spring of 2025.
During that time, crews also restored old well pads and roads by tilling, planting and fertilizing.
Also along the way, thanks to more funding from RMEF, DNR and hunter dollars, volunteers from RMEF and other organizations planted 32 white oak trees and placed circular fencing around them with boulders along the edge of the elk viewing area to help prevent the use of illegal motorized vehicles.
They also installed an educational kiosk and parking area to bolster the elk viewing area.
The area is open to hunting, other recreational pursuits and will be monitored for future treatments, including rotational burning and overseeding, as needed.
ONE SQUARE MILE A DAY.
OVER 10 MILLION ACRES BY 2030.
At RMEF, we’re not just conserving what’s here today, we’re creating what’s possible for tomorrow. That means more access, healthier habitats and a stronger future for all big game.