The position, which was initially created to oversee market hunting and the supply of essential foodstuffs to local lumber camps, was the direct ancestor of the state's conservation infrastructure.

These funds support programs for wildlife and fisheries programs, operation of Michigan state parks, harbor development, marine safety enforcement and education, snowmobile and off-road vehicle (ORV) trail repair and development, and operation of Michigan's 150 state forest campgrounds.

Restricted revenues, which by statute can only be used to support related programs, are generated from hunting and fishing license, state park entrance and camping fees, two percent of the gas tax, snowmobile registration and snowmobile trail and ORV permits and forest camping fees.

Voter adoption of Proposal G in November 1996, vests exclusive authority in the Natural Resources Commission to regulate the taking of game.

Commission members are appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate, to serve three-year terms.

The MNRTF is supported by annual revenues from the development of State-owned mineral resources, largely oil and gas.

The Fisheries Division works to preserve and enhance Michigan's fish populations, as well as other forms of aquatic life.

On the Great Lakes, states hold the fishery management authority sometimes shared with some Native American Tribes.

The FRD maintains statewide aerial photographs in color infra-red and black and white formats, and provides detailed computerized map information for land utilization, management and resource protection.

COs also work with other state, federal and local law-enforcement agencies to enforce a wide range of statutes and assist in undercover investigations, fire prevention and emergency search, rescue and recovery operations.

Conservation Officers are often the first person to locate lost hunters and provide emergency medical assistance to those in need.

They also play an important role in the department's educational public outreach efforts with organizations and clubs, community groups and schools.

Through the sale of specialty license plates and donations, the Wildlife Division contributes to the Nongame Wildlife Fund which supports Natural Heritage research, education and habitat restoration projects to identify, protect, manage and restore native plant and animal species.

State park lands help to protect and preserve the biological and historical diversity of Michigan.

The Parks and Recreation Division also maintains 130 State Forest Campgrounds, and ORV and Snowmobile trails.

The generous support of volunteers like campground hosts, helps to maintain these recreation facilities for all to enjoy.

Land and Facilities Division also deals with and department purchases, gifts, exchanges, sales, and easement transactions.

The importance of utilizing customer-friendly service technologies, sound accounting principles and best business practices, proper contract administration and educational outreach efforts in the management of Michigan's natural resources cannot be overstated.

The first academy is for all newly hired Michigan Conservation Officers and consists of training in Precision Driving, Legal Issues, Watercraft, Search & Seizure, Snowmobiles, Survival Tactics, Off Road Vehicles, Use of Force, Firearms, Communication, Writing, Organization, Public Relations, Forensics, and Technology.

Additional emphasis is placed on survival tactics, report writing, handling abnormal people/complaints, and issuing appearance tickets.