DNR Letter ...
The State of Michigan Department of Natural resources sent a letter to me asking for permission to access a creek on my property to document the decline of a certain species of unheard of frogs.
Dear Landowner:
DNR Staff will be conducting surveys for foothill yellow-legged frogs & other amphibians over the next few months. As part of this research we would like to survey the creek on your property. I am writing this letter to request your permission to access your property.
Please fill out the attached postage-paid postcard and let us know if you are willing to let us cross your property or not.
If you have any concerns about this project please give us a call. We would love to talk with you about our research.
Sincerely
Steve Niemela
Conservation Strategy Implementation Biologist
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RESPONSE FROM ME
Dear Mr. Niemela,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding accessing my property to survey for the yellow-legged frog. I may be able to help you out with this matter.
I have divided my 15 acres into 75 equal survey units with a draw tag for each unit.
Application fees are only $8.00 per unit after you purchase the "Frog Survey License" ($120.00 resident / $180.00 Non-Resident).
You will also need to obtain a "Frog Habitat" parking permit ($10.00 per vehicle).
You will also need an "Invasive Species" stamp ($15.00 for the first vehicle and $5.00 for each add'l vehicle)
You will also want to register at the Check Station to have your vehicle inspected for non-native plant life prior to entering my property.
There is also a Day Use fee, $5.00 per vehicle.
If you are successful in the Draw you will be notified two weeks in advance so you can make necessary plans and purchase your "Creek Habitat" stamp. ($18.00 Resident / $140.00 Non-Resident).
Survey units open between 8 am and 3 pm. but you cannot commence your survey until 9 am and must cease all survey activity by 1 pm.
Survey Gear can only include a net with a 2" diameter made of 100% organic cotton netting with no longer than an 18" handle, non-weighted and no deeper than 6' from net frame to bottom of net. Handles can only be made of BPA-free plastics or wooden handles.
After 1 pm. you can use a net with a 3" diameter if you purchase the "Frog Net Endorsement" ($75.00 Resident / $250 Non-Resident).
Any frogs captured that are released will need to be released with an approved release device back into the environment unharmed.
As of June 1, I am offering draw tags for our "Premium Survey" units and application is again only $8.00 per application.
You will also need to provide evidence of successful completion of "Frog Surveys and You", a comprehensive course on frog identification, safe handling practices, and self-defense strategies for frog attacks.
This course is offered on-line through an accredited program for a nominal fee of $750.00.
Please let me know if I can be of assistance to you. Otherwise, I decline your access to my property, but appreciate your inquiry.
Sincerely,
Land Owner