LANSING, Mich. (AP) – Private landowners in six northern Michigan counties can apply for state grants to support deer habitat improvement projects. The Department of Natural Resources says it’s taking applications for funding in 2017 under the Deer Private Land Assistance Network program. A total of $50,000 will be distributed in grants totaling either $2,000 or $10,000 in Alcona, Alpena, Crawford, Montmorency, Oscoda and Presque Isle counties. Officials say they’ll consider numerous factors in deciding which projects to fund. Criteria that can boost chances of getting a grant include forming a cooperative or partnership with neighbors and taking deer management steps such as completing a deer camp survey on the applicant’s property. Project applications are due by Sept. 1. Winners will be notified by Oct. 1.
