Welcome from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The State of Michigan is surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes—the world's largest freshwater lakes. These Great Lakes constitute 90% of the U.S.'s fresh surface water. Michigan has approximately 3,288 miles of Great Lakes coastline; has more than 10,000 inland lakes and ponds; and is interwoven by a 35,000-mile web of freshwater rivers, streams, and wetlands. Accordingly, Michigan leads the nation for registered boats.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources promotes the safe use and enjoyment of the bountiful waters of Michigan. Through education, regulation, and enforcement, the Department hopes to ensure that boating continues to grow in safety and popularity.

Whether your interest is in fishing, sailing, hunting, canoeing, camping, or water-skiing, boating education is essential. We hope that you will practice what you learn from this course and pass your knowledge on to others.

Our Mission

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use, and enjoyment of the state's natural resources for current and future generations.

Learn just about everything you want to know about what is going on outdoors in Michigan!

Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website and:

• Stay current on boating laws
• Get weekly fishing reports
• Purchase fishing and hunting licenses online
• Get answers to questions about: boat registration and fishing and hunting regulations
• Find out about state parks (locations and fees, available activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and boating)
• Make campground reservations online

Law Enforcement Division District Offices