From DNR reports

Goose hunters anxious to begin hunting at the Muskegon County Wastewater Facility Managed Waterfowl Hunt Area will have to be patient for a little while longer. Muskegon County Wastewater and DNR Wildlife staff members are working to prepare the fields for waterfowl hunting.

A combination of rainy weather and equipment breakdowns has delayed hay cutting and crop harvest in many of the fields. After Muskegon County Wastewater staff members and contractors harvest the crops, the fields provide space for hunters and waste grain for local and migrating waterfowl use.

“We currently have about 15 zones that are expected to be ready for hunting. Historically, we have tried to open up with at least 24-25 zones to minimize the prospect of turning the majority of hunters away on opening day,” said DNR wildlife biologist Nik Kalejs. “Delaying another week or two will allow us to get more fields available for hunting.”

The opening was slated for Wednesday, Oct. 16, but will be pushed back one to two weeks to give Wildlife staff time to prepare fields for hunting. Hunters are advised to call 231-788-5055 for information about the opening date.

The Muskegon County Wastewater Facility is one of Michigan’s seven Managed Waterfowl Hunt Areas. The facility was created to process and treat waste water. The agriculture program on the system has created the opportunity for waterfowl hunting, which the county has allowed the DNR to manage and provide for hunters. To learn more about this and other Managed Waterfowl Hunt Areas, visit michigan.gov/wetlandwonders.