U.P. Deer Habitat Improvement Grant Program
Forecasted
The U.P. Deer Habitat Improvement Grant Program supports Upper Peninsula conservation partners and landowners in improving deer habitat and sharing the work’s benefits and scientific basis with the public.
Funder: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Final application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$25,000 per request; $200,000 program budget (2026); 25% partner cost share
Summary: Supports deer habitat improvements and public education through partnerships across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Key Information: Projects must improve Upper Peninsula deer habitat, build partnerships, and include public outreach.
Description
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Division runs the Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative to produce tangible deer habitat improvements across the Upper Peninsula. The program emphasizes collaborative work on privately owned land and supports improvements to summer or winter range that address resource needs. It also seeks to strengthen relationships among the DNR, sportsperson groups, conservation partners, landowners, and other participants.
Every proposal must address three goals: improve deer habitat on the ground, promote partnerships, and showcase the work through coordinated public outreach that explains its benefits and scientific basis. Priority goes to projects providing food and cover within or near deer wintering complexes.
