Bill Text: MI HR0471 | 2017-2018 | 99th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to declare December 2018 as Bird Month in the state of Michigan.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2018-12-12 - Adopted [HR0471 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2017-HR0471-Enrolled.html
Substitute for House Resolution No. 471.
A resolution to declare December 2018 as Bird Month in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, Birds are present in every environment including urban, rural, wetland, and prairie and are an ever-present reminder that nature is all around us; and
Whereas, Flyways along the Great Lakes guide waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors. Michigan’s rich and varied landscape provides diverse bird habitats including old-growth forests, wetlands, and prairies that support more than 400 bird species; and
Whereas, Michigan plays a critical role on an international scale for migratory birds that have no boundaries, with over 100 Important Bird Areas, including 10 areas of global significance; and
Whereas, The Kirtland’s warbler migrates from its winter territory in the Bahamas to its main breeding grounds in northern lower Michigan each spring. Thanks to the work and collaboration between state, federal, and private agencies, it stands as a conservation success story from fewer than 400 birds counted in 1987 to more than 4,000 today; and
Whereas, Approximately 2 million people engage in birding-related activities every year in Michigan, resulting in an annual economic impact of $1.2 billion; and
Whereas, Loss of habitat and environmental contamination present ongoing threats to birds; and
Whereas, This year is the centennial year of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which protects birds, including familiar backyard visitors such as the northern cardinal, blue jay, and the American robin, Michigan’s state bird; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare December 2018 as Bird Month in the state of Michigan. We recognize the significant contribution of birds to Michigan’s natural beauty, diversity, and economy as we join in this celebration to offer our support.
