Below is a news release from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Proposed changes to Michigan’s elk hunting regulations for the 2026-2028 hunting cycle will be discussed at a public open house later this month in Gaylord.
The event, hosted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division, will be from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30, at the Northland Sportsmen’s Club, 1592 Old Alba Road. All are welcome.
Biologists from the DNR’s northern Lower Peninsula offices will outline proposed changes to the state’s elk hunting season dates. The proposals, which would not affect this year’s elk hunt, are designed to give Michigan elk hunters more opportunities.
Public comment will be considered and factored into the final proposed regulations for the 2026-2028 elk hunting cycle, which will be sent to the Natural Resources Commission for a vote in late winter or spring.
The DNR uses the annual elk harvest as the main tool to maintain a sustainable elk population in northern Lower Michigan while providing highly prized recreational opportunities for participating hunters. Elk hunters are selected through a random weighted drawing system.
(Photo credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources)