State permit policies & procedures

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Michigan

Website

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr

Permits: http://www.michigandnr.com/scpas/

Contact

Is a permit required for banding?

Permit application forms

• Application Form - Available here
  
  
• Renewal - same form as above
  
  
• Threatened and Endangered - same form as above
  
  
• Salvage - same form as above
  

State lands

Application form – download here or from the website.

Prior notice

Policies

Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Wildlife Division
SCIENTIFIC COLLECTOR’S PERMITS
Information Circular 2192-3, Revised December 2008

This information circular is provided for potential applicants for a State of Michigan, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Scientific Collector’s Permit, form PR 2192-1. Information presented within this circular is authorized by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Act 451, PA of 1994, Part 401 and Orders issued pursuant to that Act. Questions may be directed to: Permit Specialist, DNR, Wildlife Division, PO Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909-7944, 517-373-9329.


Definitions

For the purposes of this information circular, the terms, Scientific Collector’s Permit, or Collector’s Permit, or the word Permit means: A Scientific Collector’s Permit issued by the DNR, Wildlife Division Permit Specialist for the collection, possession/handling, transportation, or disposing of wild birds or wild mammals (living or dead or parts thereof) or the nests or eggs of wild birds, for scientific or educational purposes in the State of Michigan.

For the purposes of this information circular, the word animal(s), the word specimen(s), and the term, wild birds and mammals, means wild birds or wild mammals (living or dead, or parts thereof) defined as game or protected in Michigan.

The following animals are defined as game in Michigan: badger, bear, beaver, bobcat, Brant, Coot, coyote, Crow, deer, Duck, elk, fisher, Florida Gallinule, fox, Geese, hare, Hungarian Partridge, marten, mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, Pheasant, Quail, rabbit, raccoon, Ruffed Grouse, Sharp-tailed Grouse, skunk, Snipe, Sora Rail, squirrel, weasel, Wild Turkey, woodchuck, Woodcock, and Virginia Rail.

The following animals are defined as protected in Michigan: bats, moose, wolverines, and all birds not defined as game, except House Sparrows, feral Pigeons, and Starlings. Types of bats that may be encountered in Michigan include the: big brown bat, little brown bat, hoary bat, red bat, northern bat, silver-haired bat, Indiana bat, evening bat, and eastern pipistrelle.

Take means to hunt with any weapon, dog, raptor, or other wild or domestic animal trained for that purpose; kill; chase; follow; harass; harm; pursue; shoot; rob; trap; capture; or collect animals, or to attempt to engage in such an activity.

MDNR, DNR, or Department means the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
USFWS means the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
Bird bander means a person possessing a current and valid Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit.


APPLICATION PROCESS FOR NEW PERMITS


All applicants should read and understand the following steps involved in the application and permitting process.

1) Read this Information Circular (IC 2192-3) and the application/permit form (PR 2192-1) entirely. If you have questions, contact the Permit Specialist by telephone at 517-373-9329.
2) If qualified, complete the application form. Requested information regarding the institution is not applicable to bird banders. Be sure to sign and date the application.
3) Complete and attach a letter of authority, per Letters of Authority within this circular. Or, if applying under the bird banding category, attach a copy of your current Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit.
4) Submit your application and required attachments to: Permit Specialist, Wildlife Division, MDNR, PO Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909-7944.
5) Allow 30 days to receive your approved permit.
6) You will be required to maintain records throughout the duration of your permit and to report collection activities, per Record Keeping Requirements within this circular.
7) If changes are required to any of the information on your permit, you must submit an amended application, per Amending a Permit within this circular.
8) Unless specifically indicated otherwise, your permit will expire on the third March 31 after the date of issue, per Renewing a Permit within this circular.


AMENDING A PERMIT

If a change is required regarding any information on your permit, you must submit an amended application. For example, such changes may include:
· A new name, telephone number, or address.
· A requested change to the number or types of species being collected.
· A change to your list of subpermittees.

If changes are required, please follow these steps:

1) Contact the Permit Specialist (517-373-9329) and request an application so that you can amend your permit.
2) Complete the application with current information. Requested information regarding the institution is not applicable to bird banders.
3) Indicate “amended” and your permit number in the appropriate area.
4) Be sure to sign and date the application.
5) Attach a letter explaining the changes required.
6) Submit the application with letter attached to: Permit Specialist, Wildlife Division, MDNR, PO Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909-7944.
7) Allow 30 days to receive your approved amended permit.


RENEWING A PERMIT

Normally, permits are valid from the date of issue to the third March 31 after issue. For example, a permit issued June 1, 2006 would be valid until March 31, 2009. Permits for collection activities requiring shorter durations can be issued with specific expirations dates. However, if your permit expires on a date other than March 31, you will not be sent renewal information prior to the expiration of your permit. If your permit expires on a March 31, you will be mailed renewal information, an application, and an Activity/Renewal Report form during the month of December immediately preceding the expiration date of your permit. When renewing your permit under the salvage, research, or live animal programs category, you are not required to attach a “letter of authority”. If renewing in the bird banding category, you must submit a copy of your current Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit. Renewal applications and Activity/Renewal Reports are due by February 1 of the year your permit expires. Activity/Renewal Reports are not required of permittees in the bird banding category only.

If you wish to renew your permit, please follow these steps:

1) Complete the application with current information. Requested information regarding the institution is not applicable to bird banders.
2) Indicate “renewal” and your permit number in the appropriate area. Your permit number will be printed on the mailing label on the envelope containing your renewal materials.
3) Be sure to sign and date the application.
4) Complete and attach the short survey which is a part of the cover letter that you will receive with your renewal materials.
5) If applicable, attach an explanation of changes required in the wording of your permit.
6) Complete and attach your Activity/Renewal Report form (PR 2192-2).
7) Mail your renewal application and attachments to: Permit Specialist, Wildlife Division, MDNR, PO Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909-7944.
8) You should receive your renewed permit prior to the expiration date of your current permit.

Your Activity/Renewal Report is requested regardless of whether or not you wish to renew your permit. If you do not wish to renew, indicate such on the cover letter’s short survey. Attach the survey to your completed Activity/Renewal Report and submit to the address indicated by February 1 of the year your permit expires.


Activities Authorized by a Scientific Collector’s Permit

A Scientific Collector’s Permit is required for the collection, possession/handling, transportation, or disposition of wild birds or mammals, living or dead, or parts thereof (including nests or eggs of wild birds) for scientific or educational purposes, off the premises of a qualified scientific or educational institution. The possession of wild bird or wild mammal specimens remaining on the premises of a qualified institution is exempt from the requirement of obtaining a Scientific Collector’s Permit. Only when specimens are handled off the premises or transported is a permit required. Applicants may apply under one or more of the following four permit categories:

1) Salvage – (Letter of authority required for new applicants.)
This category pertains to the salvage of specimens found dead. This type of authorization is commonly granted to teachers at the high school level or below, but could be approved for any qualified applicant. Specimens are typically prepared as whole body mounts or individual parts such as skin, skeleton, skull, pelts, or plumage and used as study materials. All permanently preserved specimens must be housed within the institution named on the application/permit form. No private maintenance or disposition of any specimens collected is allowed. This does not apply to the temporary holding of specimens being prepared for permanent deposit into a collection. Specimens held may not be sold. Authorization under the salvage category can usually be granted directly by the Wildlife Division Permit Specialist without the need for review by other Department personnel. The standard narrative provided on the front of the permit application form under “Salvage” describes authorized activities. Normally, there is no need for the Permit Specialist to attach additional language to the permit.

2) Research – (Letter of authority required for new applicants.)
This category pertains to the collecting or handling of animals from the wild for research purposes. This type of authorization may be granted to qualified applicants directly affiliated with a college, university, or a qualified scientific research organization. This type of authorization could include shooting or kill trapping, as well as live trapping for release, euthanasia; or for the holding of live animals for research purposes. This type of authorization is not normally approved for teachers at the high school level or below. In addition to the Wildlife Division Permit Specialist, this type of authorization must also be approved by the Wildlife Division Research Section Supervisor. Depending on the type of request, approvals may also be needed from the Wildlife Division Natural Heritage Section Supervisor, Wildlife Division Wildlife Management Section Supervisor, or the Law Enforcement Division Policy Specialist. Under this category, the Permit Specialist will attach a narrative of authorized activities based upon information provided within the applicant’s letter of authority.

3) Live Animal Programs – (Letter of authority required for new applicants.)
This category pertains to the holding of certain live animals for educational purposes. This type of authorization may be granted to qualified applicants directly affiliated with qualified educational institutions. The live animals must be legally acquired. Normally, a Scientific Collector’s Permit will not authorize the collection of live animals from the wild for this purpose. Animals held for this purpose are usually permanently injured or otherwise non-releasable animals that have been legally held and donated by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. A qualified educational institution would need this type of authorization only if the animals were to be utilized at any time off the premises of the institution. This type of authorization can usually be granted directly by the Wildlife Division Permit Specialist. If protected migratory birds are held under this category, a Federal permit is also required. Under this category, the Permit Specialist will attach a narrative of authorized activities and a list of animals that may be held. This will be based upon information provided within the applicant’s letter of authority. An amended permit application is required prior to making changes to the list of animals authorized for possession.

4) Bird Banding – (Copy of Federal permit required with new, renewal, or amended applications.)
This category pertains solely to people possessing a current and valid Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit. A State Scientific Collector’s Permit issued under this category allows activities in Michigan authorized by the Federal permit. Permittees under this category must adhere strictly to the conditions of the Federal permit. Additionally, permittees must notify the DNR, District Law Enforcement Supervisor, prior to engaging in authorized activities, per Field Office Contact Information within this circular. Under this category, the qualified institution that the applicant/permittee is affiliated with is the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). A copy of the Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit will serve as the required letter of authority. If proposed additional activities fall outside of those authorized by the Federal permit, the applicant/permittee must qualify and be approved under the salvage, research, or live animal programs categories in addition to the bird banding category. A Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit authorizes a person to capture migratory birds for banding or marking purposes and authorizes the use of official bands issued by the USFWS. Captured birds may be held for up to 24 hours. Birds that are found dead or are accidentally killed during normal banding activities may be salvaged for donation to educational institutions. Other activities may be authorized by this Federal permit. To apply for a Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit, or to ask questions regarding this permit, contact:
U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Biological Research Division, Bird Band Laboratory, 12100 Beech Forest Road, Suite 4037, Laurel Maryland 20708-4037, telephone - (301) 497-5790, fax – (301) 497-5717,
web site - here for details


QUALIFIED RESEARCH OR EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Applicants for a Scientific Collector’s Permit must be directly affiliated with a research or educational institution that qualifies for this permit. The following types of institutions meet qualification criteria:

1. A public or private school, such as a college, university, high school, junior high school, middle school, or elementary school. The school must be recognized as a legitimate educational institution by the Michigan Department of Education. The primary listed applicant, or the advisor, named on the application, must hold at least a Bachelor’s Degree in the biological sciences or educational field.

2. A public agency, such as a federal, state, city, or county unit of government associated with a wildlife or scientific area of study or research.

3. A non-profit educational organization, which has obtained an exemption from federal income tax under the provisions of section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The educational organization must be associated with a wildlife or scientific area of study or research. The primary listed applicant, or the advisor named on the application, must hold at least a Bachelor’s Degree in the biological sciences or educational field.

4. A scientific research organization, working in cooperation with a college or university, whose primary listed applicant holds a post graduate degree in a science related field.

Acceptable Forms of Affiliation
An applicant for a Scientific Collector’s Permit must be affiliated with one of the types of institutions listed above. Normally, this means the applicant is employed by the institution (except under the bird banding category). The president or board members for non-profit educational organizations are also considered to be affiliated with those types of institutions even if this is not a paid position. Retirees and volunteers do not qualify as acceptable forms of affiliation for any of the above listed institutions. The qualified research or educational institution that applicants under the bird banding category are affiliated with is the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

Sponsorships
Applicants not meeting the standards for affiliation indicated above may be sponsored by a qualified institution. Such applicants must include with their application a letter from an appropriate employee of the institution. The employee must be named as the applicant’s advisor on the application. The employee and the institution must qualify for a permit per the criteria listed above. The letter must certify the following five items verbatim:

1. The institution requires the applicant to hold specimens for the institution off the premises of the institution.
2. The institution has a need for the applicant to perform this activity for the institution.
3. The applicant is qualified to perform this activity for the institution.
4. The institution accepts responsibility for the safe keeping and welfare of all specimens held by the applicant.
5. If applicable, the institution accepts responsibility for the educational content of programs presented by the applicant, utilizing specimens held by the applicant.


LETTERS OF AUTHORITY

Applicants for a Scientific Collector’s Permit must attach a letter of authority to their completed application. Normally, this letter is signed by the applicant’s supervisor or advisor. The applicant may prepare this letter for that signature. If appropriate, the letter may document that there is no supervisor or advisor and be prepared and signed by the applicant. If applicable, the letter of authority may include the name or names of any requested subpermittees. Subpermittees must meet the same qualifications as the permittee, per Subpermittees within this circular. A copy of the Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit will serve as the letter of authority for applicants under the bird banding category. No other attachments are required for bird banders. Letters of authority submitted under the salvage, research, or live animal programs categories should:

1. Identify which of the four types of qualifying institutions the applicant is affiliated with, per Qualified Research or Educational Institutions within this circular. If this is a non-profit educational organization, which has obtained an exemption from federal income tax under the provisions of section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, a copy of the determination letter should be included.

2. Specifically document how the applicant is affiliated with the institution.

3. Specifically document that the applicant, or the supervisor/advisor named on the application, meets the educational standards required, per Qualified Research or Educational Institutions within this circular. This is not a requirement for applicants affiliated with public agencies.

4. Identify the category or categories that apply (salvage, research, and/or live animal programs), per Activities Authorized by a Scientific Collector’s Permit within this circular.

Permits under the salvage category are readily issued to qualified applicants. A letter of authority requesting only salvage activity should include items one through four above and a general statement regarding the wish to engage in this activity.

Under the live animal programs category, the letter of authority should include items one through four above and a list of the animals proposed to be held for this purpose. It is recommended that initially this list be limited to a small number of animals. The list should include only animals which the applicant anticipates having legal access to within the near future. This list may be expanded over time by amending the permit if additional animals are desired and become available. Normally, these animals are permanently injured, or otherwise non-releasable animals that are legally acquired from licensed wildlife rehabilitators. The applicant’s letter of authority may indicate specific rehabilitators from which animals may be acquired, or may simply indicate that animals will come from licensed wildlife rehabilitators in general. Any source of live animals other than licensed wildlife rehabilitators must be specifically indicated within the letter of authority.

Under the research category, the letter of authority should include items one through four above, and the following if applicable:

1. The method of take including specific types of live traps, kill traps, and/or firearms.
2. The species and number of animals proposed for collection.
3. The location or locations where collecting activities will take place.
4. The time frame under which collecting activity will take place.
5. Other related activities such as live trapping for release, euthanasia, or the holding of live animals for research purposes.
6. The type of banding, marking, radio-collaring, and/or blood, feather, or other biological sampling proposed.
7. A copy of a formal research proposal.
8. The names of any requested subpermittees, per Subpermittees within this circular.
9. Any other information pertaining to the proposed activity.


SUBPERMITTEES

Applicants in any category other than bird banding may request the name or names of people that they wish to be included on the permit as subpermittees. The application form allows space for up to three names. If more than three names are required, all names should be listed within the applicant’s letter of authority. Any subpermittees listed on an approved permit are granted the same authorizations as the permittee. A subpermittee must possess a copy of the permit and display the permit upon the request of any authorized Department personnel. Subpermittees must meet the same eligibility requirements as the permittee. For example, subpermittees must be directly affiliated with the qualified research or educational institution. If subpermittee names are not known at the time of application, the applicant may request language within the narrative of the permit that would allow anyone authorized in writing by the permittee to act as a subpermittee. Such language may be approved if deemed appropriate by the Permit Specialist. Subpermittees shall report all permit activity directly to the permittee. The permittee is responsible for all record keeping and activity/renewal reporting requirements. Applicants in the bird banding category only, should not list subpermittees. Subpermittees of this permit (State Scientific Collector’s Permit) should not be confused with subpermittees of a Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit. Federal Bird Marking and Salvage permittees and subpermittees must obtain their own individual State Scientific Collector’s Permit in the bird banding category.


RECORD KEEPING REQUIRMENTS

Permittees are required to maintain records throughout the duration of their permit. Except in the bird banding category, these records shall be used to facilitate a Scientific Collector’s Activity/Renewal Report. This report is due on February 1 of the year the permit expires. Permits cannot be renewed without this report. This report shall provide an accurate summary of activities conducted under the authority of the permit. Permittees will receive a sample report form at the time their approved permit is issued. Another report form will be included with renewal materials distributed prior the expiration of the permit. The permittee is responsible for maintaining records and submitting the Activity/Renewal Report regarding activities performed by the permittee and any subpermittees listed on the permit. Subpermittees shall report all permit activity directly to the permittee. Subpermittees shall not submit Activity/Renewal Reports.

For each of the three calendar years indicated, the report shall include the common name of species collected or handled and the total number handled. The disposition of specimens collected or handled shall also be indicated as either, in collection, destroyed, released, held live, or other. If applicable, the number of eggs or nests collected shall also be included. Any previously reported specimens should not be reported again unless there has been a change in disposition. It is important to know that as a permittee you are required to report the collection and handling of bird or mammal specimens, living or dead or parts thereof (including eggs and nests if applicable). You do not just report specimens added to a collection. For example, if you have live trapped and released animals under the authority of your permit, that should be reported.

Permittees in the bird banding category only are not required to complete a (State) Activity/Renewal Report. Such permittees shall report bird banding activities only as directed by their Federal Bird Marking and Salvage Permit. If a permit is issued in the bird banding category and any other category or categories, an Activity/Renewal Report is required for activities other than those authorized under the bird banding category.

The collection or handling of fish, amphibians, or reptiles should not be included within an Activity/Renewal Report. Fish, amphibians, and reptiles may be collected under the authority of a Cultural and Scientific Fish, Reptile, and Amphibian Collector’s Permit (PR 8114) issued by the MDNR, Fisheries Division. Involvement with fish, amphibians, or reptiles should be reported in accordance with that permit.

The collection or handling of threatened or endangered species should not be included within an Activity/Renewal Report. Threatened or endangered species may be collected under the authority of a Threatened/Endangered Species Permit (PR 2013) issued by the MDNR, Wildlife Division. Involvement with threatened or endangered species should be reported in accordance with that permit.


OTHER PERMIT NEEDS

Threatened, Endangered, and Special Concern Species
The possession or handling of State or Federally listed threatened or endangered species is not authorized by a Scientific Collector’s Permit. Involvement with State listed threatened or endangered species requires a State Threatened/Endangered Species Permit. The following birds and mammals, which may be encountered in Michigan, are protected under State threatened/endangered species regulations. In addition, those with an asterisk are also protected under Federal threatened/endangered species regulations.

Threatened birds: Henslow’s Sparrow, Long-eared Owl, Red-shouldered Hawk, Yellow Rail, Trumpeter Swan, Yellow-throated Warbler, Merlin, Common Loon, *Bald Eagle, Least Bittern, Osprey, Caspian Tern, and Common Tern.

Endangered birds: Short-eared Owl, *Piping Plover, Prairie Warbler, *Kirtland’s Warbler, Peregrine Falcon, Migrant Loggerhead Shrike, King Rail, and Barn Owl.

Some species are also designated as species of special concern. Although not afforded legal protection under threatened/endangered regulations, many of these species are of concern because of declining or relict populations in the State. Except in the bird banding category, a Scientific Collector’s Permit will not authorize involvement with live species of special concern without the approval of the DNR, Wildlife Division, Natural Heritage Unit Supervisor. Following are species of special concern.

Birds: Cooper’s Hawk, Northern Goshawk, Grasshopper Sparrow, American Bittern, Black Tern, Northern Harrier, Marsh Wren, Cerulean Warbler, Spruce Grouse, Common Moorhen, Black-crowned night-heron, Wilson’s Phalarope, Black-backed Woodpecker, Prothonotary Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Dickcissel, Forster’s Tern, Western Meadowlark, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Hooded Warbler, and Yellow-headed Blackbird.

The lists of threatened, endangered and special concern species are current as of August 2006, but are subject to change. To obtain an application for a Threatened/Endangered Species Permit, or with questions about threatened, endangered, or special concern species, contact: MDNR, Wildlife Division, Endangered Species Coordinator, PO Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909, (517) 373-1263. For more information regarding Federally listed threatened or endangered species contact: USFWS, Region Three, Endangered Species Section, Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, One Federal Drive, Box 45, Fort Snelling, MN 55111-0045, (612) 713-5350.

Federal Permits
Persons obtaining a State Scientific Collector’s Permit authorizing involvement with protected migratory birds, or their nests or eggs, are also required to obtain a Federal permit. For more information contact: USFWS, Region Three, Migratory Bird Permit Section, Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, One Federal Drive, Fort Snelling, MN 55111-0045, (612) 713-5436.

Activities not requiring a scientific collector’s permit

Activities involving the collection or handling of the following do not require authorization from a Scientific Collector’s Permit:

Game Lawfully Taken by Hunting or Trapping
A Scientific Collector’s Permit is not required for the possession of carcasses of game animals, or parts thereof, lawfully taken in season under the authority of a hunting or trapping license. Such specimens may be used for research or educational purposes without the need for a Scientific Collector’s Permit.

Livestock, Domestic, or Exotic Animals
A Scientific Collector’s Permit is not required for the possession of livestock, domestic birds or mammals, mammals not currently established in the wild in Michigan, and birds not currently established in the wild in North America.

Non-Protected Birds
A Scientific Collector’s Permit is not required for the possession of carcasses of House Sparrows, feral Pigeons, or Starlings, or parts thereof, lawfully taken under the authority of a hunting license (no closed season). Such specimens may be used for research or educational purposes without the need for a Scientific Collector’s Permit. Collection of these birds for scientific or educational purposes by methods other than hunting requires a Scientific Collector’s Permit.


STANDARD PERMIT CONDITIONS

The applicant/permittee’s signature on the application and permit form certifies that the applicant/permittee:

1) Has read and understands this Information Circular (IC 2192-3) and the front and back of the application/permit form (PR 2192-1) and agrees to abide by all requirements therein.

2) Understands that making a false statement on the application/permit form or letter of authority; or failure to comply with the provisions of this permit, is a violation of State law and may result in the revocation of this permit, and criminal penalties.

3) Understands that a person shall not collect, handle, possess, transport, or dispose of a wild bird or mammal, living or dead, or parts thereof, (including the nests or eggs of wild birds) for scientific or educational purposes, without first securing a Scientific Collector’s Permit from the DNR, Wildlife Division, Permit Specialist.

4) Understands that all permitted activities shall be for legitimate research or educational purposes for the qualified research or educational institution named on the application/permit form and that the permittee must be directly affiliated with, or sponsored by, that institution.

5) Understands that this permit does not authorize activities on private or public property without the approval of the land owner or administrator and that a separate permit may be required for activities on public property.

6) Understands that this permit does not allow activities outside of the State of Michigan.

7) Understands that, unless limited to specific areas within the State, this permit authorizes permitted activities anywhere in the State of Michigan.

8) Understands that if a permit is issued in the bird banding category, the District Law Enforcement Supervisor must be contacted prior to engaging in permitted activities.

9) Understands that if a permit is issued in the research category allowing the collection of animals by shooting, the District Law Enforcement Supervisor and the Wildlife Management Unit Supervisor must be contacted prior to engaging in such activity.

10) Understands that if a permit is issued in the salvage category only, the permit does not authorize the collection or handling of live animals.

11) Understands that a Federal permit is also required for the collection or handling of protected migratory birds or their parts.

12) Understands that this permit does not authorize the collection or handling of threatened or endangered species; or fish, amphibians, or reptiles.

13) Understands that this permit does not provide any authorization to circumvent any Federal, State, local zoning, or any other local laws and ordinances, and that it is the applicant/permittee’s responsibility to know and comply with Federal, State, and local laws.

14) Understands that, unless indicated otherwise, this permit expires on the third March 31 after the date of issue and that it is the permittee’s responsibility to submit a completed Activity/Renewal Report and renewal application prior to the expiration of the permit.

15) Understands that this permit is not required for the possession of: 1) game lawfully taken in season by hunting or trapping, 2) livestock, domestic, or exotic animals, and 3) animals defined as non-protected in Michigan.

16) Understands that no private maintenance or disposition of any animal, or parts thereof, collected under the authority of this permit is allowed, and that this does not apply to the temporary holding of animals being prepared for permanent deposit into a collection.

17) Understands that all permanently preserved specimens shall be housed within the institution named on the permit.

18) Understands that the permittee and any subpermittee must display this permit upon the request of any authorized Department personnel.

19) Understands that animals, or parts thereof, held under the authority of this permit shall not be sold.

20) Hereby releases, waives, discharges and covenants not to sue the State of Michigan, its departments, officers, employees and agents, from any and all liability to permittee, its officers, employees and agents, for all losses, injury, death or damage, and any claims or demands thereto, on account of injury to person or property, or resulting in death of permittee, its officers, employees or agents, in reference to the activities authorized by this permit.

21) Hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify and save harmless, the State of Michigan, its departments, officers, employees and agents, from any and all claims and demands, for all loss, injury, death or damage, that any person or entity may have or make, in any manner, arising out of any occurrence related to (1) issuance of this permit; (2) the activities authorized by this permit; and (3) the use or occupancy of the premises which are the subject of this permit by the permittee, its employees, contractors, or its authorized representatives.


FIELD OFFICE CONTACT INFORMATION

Permittees may be required to notify certain Department personnel prior to engaging in authorized activities. For example, permittees authorized in the bird banding category are required to notify the DNR, District Law Enforcement Supervisor for the county in which such activity will take place, prior to engaging in such activity. Also, permittees in the research category who have been authorized to take specimens by shooting, are required to notify the District Law Enforcement Supervisor and the Wildlife Division, Management Unit Supervisor prior to such activity. The narrative of an approved permit will indicate if such notification is required. Contact information for Department field personnel follows:

District Law Enforcement Supervisors

Counties: Keweenaw, Houghton, Ontonagon, Gogebic, Baraga, Iron, Dickinson, Menominee, Marquette.
Contact: MDNR District 1 Law Enforcement Supervisor, 1990 US-41 South, Marquette, MI 49855, 906-228-6561.

Counties: Alger, Delta, Schoolcraft, Luce, Chippewa, Mackinac.
Contact: MDNR District 2 Law Enforcement Supervisor, RR 4, PO Box 796, 5100 State Highway M-123, Newberry, MI 49868, 906-293-5131.

Counties: Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Otsego, Alpena, Montmorency, Presque Isle.
Contact: MDNR District 3 Law Enforcement Supervisor, PO Box 667, 1732 West M-32, Gaylord, MI 49735, 989-732-3541.

Counties: Benzie, Leelanau, Grand Traverse, Manistee, Wexford, Mason, Lake, Osceola, Oceana, Newaygo, Mecosta.
Contact: MDNR District 4 Law Enforcement Supervisor, 8015 Mackinaw Trail, Cadillac, MI 49601, 231-775-9727.

Counties: Kalkaska, Missaukee, Crawford, Oscoda, Alcona, Roscommon, Ogemaw, Iosco, Clare, Gladwin.
Contact: MDNR District 5 Law Enforcement Supervisor, PO Box 128, 8717 North Roscommon Road, Roscommon, MI 48653, 989-275-5151.

Counties: Montcalm, Saginaw, Huron, Sanilac, Tuscola, Isabella, Midland, Bay, Arenac, Gratiot.
Contact: MDNR District 6 Law Enforcement Supervisor, 3580 State Park Drive, Bay City, MI 48706, 989-684-9141.

Counties: Muskegon, Ottawa, Kent, Ionia, Allegan, Barry, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph.
Contact: MDNR District 7 Law Enforcement Supervisor, 621 North Tenth Street, Plainwell, MI 49080, 269-685-6851.

Counties: Clinton, Shiawassee, Eaton, Ingham, Livingston, Jackson, Washtenaw, Hillsdale, Lenawee, Branch, Calhoun.
Contact: MDNR District 8 Law Enforcement Supervisor, 8562 East Stoll Road, East Lansing, MI 48823, 517-641-4903.

Counties: St. Clair, Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Monroe, Lapeer, Genesee.
Contact: MDNR District 9 Law Enforcement Supervisor, 26000 West Eight Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48034-5916, 248-359-9040

Wildlife Management Unit Supervisors

Counties: Alger (west ½), Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon.
Contact: Western Upper Peninsula Management Unit, 1990 US-41 South, Marquette, MI 49855, 906-228-6561.

Counties: Alger (east ½), Chippewa, Luce, Mackinac, Schoolcraft.
Contact: Eastern Upper Peninsula Management Unit Supervisor, RR4, P.O. Box 796, Newberry, MI 49868, 906-293-5131.

Counties: Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon.
Contact: Northeastern Management Unit Supervisor, 1732 West M-32, Gaylord, MI 49735, 989-732-3541.

Counties: Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, Wexford.
Contact: Northwestern Management Unit Supervisor, 8015 Mackinaw Trail, Cadillac, MI 49601, 231-775-9727.

Counties: Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Huron, Isabella, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, Tuscola.
Contact: Saginaw Bay Management Unit Supervisor, 3580 State Park Drive, Bay City, MI 48706, 989-684-9141.

Counties: Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Cass, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa, St. Joseph, Van Buren.
Contact: Southwestern Management Unit Supervisor, 621 North Tenth Street, Plainwell, MI 49080, 269-685-6851.

Counties: Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Hillsdale, Ingham, Ionia, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Montcalm, Shiawassee, Washtenaw.
Contact: South Central Management Unit Supervisor, Rose Lake Research Station, 8562 East Stoll Road, East Lansing, MI 48823, 517-641-4903.

Counties: Genesee, Lapeer, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Wayne.
Contact: Southeastern Management Unit Supervisor, 26000 West Eight Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48034-5916, 248-359-9040.

R 299.1026 Birds.
Rule 6. (1) The following bird species are included on the state list of endangered species:

Ammodramus henslowii (Audubon) - Henslow’s Sparrow
Asio flammeus (Pontoppidan) - Short-eared Owl
Charadrius melodus (Ord) -Piping Plover
Dendroica discolor (Vieillot) - Prairie Warbler
Dendroica kirtlandii (Baird) - Kirtland’s Warbler
Falco peregrinus Tunstall - Peregrine Falcon
Lanius ludovicianus migrans (Palmer) - Migrant Loggerhead Shrike
Rallus elegans Audubon - King Rail
Tyto alba (Scopoli) Barn Owl

(2) The following bird species are included on the state list of threatened species:

Asio otis (Linnaeus) - Long-eared Owl
Buteo lineatus (Gmelin) - Red-shouldered Hawk
Corturnicops noveboracensis (Gmelin) - Yellow Rail
Cygnus buccinator Richardson - Trumpeter Swan
Dendroica cerulea (Wilson) - Cerulean Warbler
Dendroica dominica (Linnaeus) - Yellow-throated Warbler
Falco columbarius (Linnaeus) - Merlin
Gallinula chloropus (Linnaeus) - Common Moorhen
Gavia immer (Brunnich) - Common Loon
Ixobrychus exilis (Gmelin) - Least Bittern
Seiurus motacilla (Vieillot) - Louisiana Waterthrush
Sterna caspia Pallas - Caspian Tern
Sterna forsteri Nuttall - Forster’s Tern
Sterna hirundo Linnaeus - Common Tern

(3) The following bird species are thought to be extirpated in Michigan, but will be listed automatically as threatened if rediscovered in the state:

Chondestes grammacus (Say) - Lark Sparrow


Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Conservation Orders

5.20 Scientific collector's permit, definitions.
Sec 5.20 For the purpose of sections 5.21 to 5.23 of this order, "permit" means a scientific collector's permit. History: Eff. Mar. 31, 1989; Am. 1, 1996, Eff. Jan. 11, 1996.

5.21 Scientific collector's permit, requirements.
Sec 5.21 (1) A person shall not collect, possess, transport, or dispose of an animal, or parts thereof, for scientific or educational purposes, without first securing a permit from the wildlife permit specialist.
(2) An application for a permit shall be made on a form supplied by the department and shall be subject to department approval.
(3) A permit shall expire on the third March 31 after the date of issue unless the permit specifies a period of shorter duration.
(4) Department employees, in the course of performing official job responsibilities, shall be exempt from the requirement of obtaining a permit.
(a) Animals considered to be a disease risk may be collected by department employees performing official job responsibilities.
(5) A permit to collect a migratory bird or its eggs is valid only if the permittee has also obtained and has in their possession a similar permit issued by the United States fish and wildlife service.
(6) A permit shall be issued only to a qualified person who will use the specimens obtained for bona fide scientific or educational purposes. An applicant for a permit must be affiliated with one of the following institutions:
(a) A public or private school, such as a college, university, high school, junior high school, middle school, or elementary school. The school must be recognized as a legitimate educational institution by the Michigan department of education. The primary listed applicant, or the advisor named on the application, must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences or an educational field.
(b) A public agency, such as a federal, state, city, or county unit of government associated with a wildlife or scientific area of study or research.
(c) A non-profit educational organization, which has obtained an exemption from federal income tax under the provisions of section 501 (c) (3) of the internal revenue code. The educational organization must be associated with a wildlife or scientific area of study or research. The primary listed applicant, or the advisor named on the application, must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences or an educational field. The applicant must provide written documentation to the department certifying that 501 (c) (3) status has been achieved.
(d) A scientific research organization, working in cooperation with a college or university, whose primary listed applicant holds a post graduate degree in a science-related field.
(e) A scientific research organization licensed by the United States department of agriculture.
(7) Applicants for a permit must submit a letter from an appropriate representative of the institution listed on the application. The letter shall include the applicant’s and institutions permit qualifications, the need for the permit, and a description of the type of collection activity required. If the applicant requires more than the salvage of specimens found dead, the letter shall also include the species and number of specimens to be collected and the method of take. If live animals are to be held, the letter shall include the species and number of animals, the source of the animals, and the need for holding live animals.
(8) In addition to the requirements described in section 5.21 (7), applicants who are not directly affiliated with the institution listed on the application must include with their application a letter from an appropriate employee of the institution. The employee must be named as the applicant’s advisor on the application. The institution must qualify for a permit. The letter must certify that:
(a) The institution requires the applicant to hold specimens for the institution off the premises of the institution.
(b) The institution has a need for the applicant to perform this activity.
(c) The applicant is qualified to perform this activity for the institution.
(d) The institution accepts responsibility for the safe keeping and welfare of all specimens held by the applicant.
(e) If applicable, the institution accepts responsibility for the educational content of programs presented by the applicant, utilizing specimens held by the applicant.
(9) Permits issued prior to January 1, 1993, which do not meet current issuance requirements, shall be renewed, provided the permittee and institution continues to be deemed qualified by the department.
(10) Institutions possessing animals under the authority of section 4.1 (5) of this order shall be exempt from the requirement of obtaining a permit. Persons possessing, transporting, or otherwise handling such animals off the premises of such institutions shall require a permit.
(11) A permit shall not be issued for the collection or handling of state- or federally-listed threatened or endangered species.
(12) Animals, or parts thereof, held under the authority of this permit shall not be sold.
(13) No private maintenance or disposition of any animal, or parts thereof, collected under the authority of this permit is allowed. This does not apply to the temporary holding of animals being prepared for permanent deposit into a collection.

History: Eff. Mar. 31, 1989; Am. 14, 1990, Eff. Aug. 1, 1990; Am. 1, 1996, Eff. Jan. 11, 1996; Am. 8, 1999, Eff. Sept. 1, 1999; Am. 9, 2007, Eff. May 11, 2007.

5.22 Scientific collector's permit, reports.
Sec 5.22 (1) Prior to a permit being renewed, each permittee shall submit a completed renewal application form supplied by the department.
(2) Prior to a permit being renewed, each permittee shall submit a completed renewal report form supplied by the department. The renewal report shall provide an accurate summary of activities conducted under the previous permit.

History: Eff. Mar. 31, 1989; Am. 1, 1996, Eff. Jan. 11, 1996

5.23 Repealed. Am. 14, 1990, Eff. Aug. 1, 1990.
Publisher's note: The repealed section pertained to the revocation of scientific collector's permits.