Audubon Advocates Gather at Statehouse, Call for Wetland Protections and Renewable Energy Solutions to Protect Birds

LANSING (March 11, 2026) – As we speak, Audubon members, neighborhood leaders and coverage specialists gathered on the Michigan State Capitol to lift consciousness of the threats dealing with birds, hear from main voices, and meet with state lawmakers. Collectively they shared alternatives to guard wetlands and different habitats birds want and develop renewable vitality options which might be deliberate with birds in thoughts.

The 2025 State of the Birds report, revealed by a coalition of science and conservation teams, reveals that U.S. birds are declining sharply throughout a spread of habitats. Michigan has misplaced 50 p.c of its historic wetlands, and the Black Tern—a species that is determined by wetland habitat—has misplaced practically 99 p.c of its state inhabitants since 1966 and was added to the state threatened and endangered species listing in 2024.

“The chance to Michigan’s birds if we fail to act are profound. The excellent news is that by taking motion now, we are able to defend susceptible species—whereas delivering options that profit folks and communities,” mentioned Marnie Urso, Senior Coverage Director for Audubon Nice Lakes. “Thanks to the Audubon members who traveled from all throughout the state immediately to fulfill with their lawmakers and share why defending Michigan’s wetlands and advancing renewable vitality—rapidly and responsibly—is so important for the way forward for birds and this state.”

Audubon advocates met with greater than 17 state lawmakers to share their tales and urge lawmakers to assist:

Strong funding for wetland restoration within the Michigan Division of Pure Assets’ funds.

SB 276 and SB 277, which might improve allow charges for searching and fishing licenses and supply important assets for Michigan’s conservation work.

Group vitality in Michigan to cut back vitality prices, improve reliability and develop entry to renewable vitality.

Permitting transmission strains to be constructed safely the place there’s already growth, like close to highways.

State Senator John Cherry (D-Flint) and Steve Chadwick, Senior Nice Lakes Wetlands Advisor for the Michigan Division of Pure Assets, spoke on the occasion.

“Whether or not you’re a birdwatcher, or a hunter or angler—the conservation of Michigan’s nice pure areas is one thing we are able to all agree on. Conservation options like SB 276 and SB 277, which might make updates to Michigan’s searching and fishing license charges, will assist defend the woods and waters that birds want and Michiganders get pleasure from,” mentioned Senator Cherry. “Thanks to Audubon and your members for elevating options that won’t simply defend birds however guarantee our pure heritage thrives for generations to return.”

“Wetlands are vital habitats for birds, however the penalties of dropping these valuable pure assets are additionally felt amongst our native communities,” mentioned Chadwick. “Wetlands assist forestall flooding from damaging Michigan streets and houses, and investing within the safety of those habitats gives priceless returns to Michigan residents within the type of tourism, recreation, infrastructure safety, cleaner water, and high quality of life.”

In Michigan, Audubon Nice Lakes can also be working to straight restore 12,500 acres of habitat in high-priority areas, corresponding to coastal wetlands at St. Clair Flats—residence to the world’s largest freshwater delta—and, alongside partnerships, goals to positively influence 129,500 acres throughout the state.

“We need to thank Senator Cherry and Steve Chadwick for becoming a member of us,” mentioned Urso. “Just like the canary within the coalmine, birds are sometimes the primary to sign adjustments to our surroundings. We urge Michigan’s lawmakers to heed their warning and assist construct a brighter future—one the place Michigan birds, and the habitats they rely on, can thrive.”

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