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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Welcome to the latest edition of my e-newsletter for 2023.
Below you’ll find an update on what’s happening in your state Capitol and some additional resources I hope you find helpful.
Thank you for allowing me to represent you in the Michigan Senate. I am grateful each and every day to work for the people of the 34th Senate District.
Sincerely,
Roger Hauck
State Senator
34th Senate District
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Reasons to contact your state senator
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• To comment on legislation: Your opinion matters. Contact me any time to express your opinion or ask a question about pending legislation.
• For free publications: My office can provide free publications on a wide range of topics designed to help you with tax preparation, consumer protection, veterans benefits, information for seniors and children and more. These publications are available online, but we'd be happy to mail you a hard copy.
• Assistance with a state issue: My staff and I are here to help you resolve any problems that can be addressed through state government. Every day we help constituents just like you with issues related to utilities, unemployment, foreclosure, taxes and more. Please don't hesitate to contact me so we can help.
• To suggest a new law: If you have any ideas for new laws or ways to improve or repeal existing ones, please submit your suggestions to me.
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Over the last few weeks, much of our state has experienced high winds and heavy rain, leading to broken branches and downed trees. Follow these tips to keep yourself safe as you begin to clean up after a storm:
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• Look carefully for downed power lines or branches that are about to fall: Broken tree limbs located near power lines or lying on your home should always be dealt with by professionals. Stay away from debris tangled in power lines and immediately notify your utility company.
• Keep pests in mind when disposing of wood: Wood left behind after trees are damaged by storms can harbor insects or diseases harmful to forests. Do not move debris out of the local area to help mitigate these issues. Check the national Don’t Move Firewood website for recommendations on seasoning and using local firewood.
• Consult your insurance policies: It’s always best to review your insurance policies before beginning any repairs. Take photos or video of the damage and notify your agent to clarify any issues. Damage to your car by falling branches may be covered by your auto policy as well.
• Be aware of scams: After major storms, it is not unusual for scam artists to pose as tree care companies. Before hiring any contractor or signing a contract, check to be sure the company is licensed and insured. Make sure you understand what work you will be charged. Click here for help finding a qualified, insured arborist in your area.
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Michigan is home to more than 4,000 miles of off-road vehicle trails. On Aug. 19-20, all routes, trails and the state’s six scramble areas are open to riders. During the Free ORV Weekend, trails are open to residents and out-of-state visitors with or without ORV licenses or trail permits. All other ORV rules and laws apply.
Visit the DNR ORV webpage to download the ORV rules and regulations handbook, find ORV-friendly campgrounds, review maps of state-designated ORV trails and routes and state forest roads, and much more!
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With more than 20,000 acres devoted entirely to blueberries, Michigan is one of the nation’s top suppliers of blueberries.
July is National Blueberry Month. Michigan ranks third in the U.S. in growing blueberries, producing an average of 92 million pounds with more than 30 different varieties, contributing nearly $132 million to the state’s economy.
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Keep a lookout for bald eagles
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It is becoming more and more common to see bald eagles soaring over Michigan’s lower peninsula. With 26,266 inland lakes and 76,439 miles of rivers and streams, Michigan’s landscape is compatible with these majestic birds that enjoy fishing and scavenging.
Recent statewide surveys found approximately 900 breeding pairs across Michigan, and nests have been found in 81 of the state’s 83 counties. This compares to only 359 breeding pairs in 2000 and 83 in 1980. While Bald eagles are no longer on the endangered or threatened species list, they are still protected by both state and federal laws.
While enjoying the great outdoors this summer, keep your eyes on the sky to catch a glimpse of our national symbol.
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