Michigan legislators challenge DNR over wild and feral pig regulations

In a heated Michigan Legislature meeting on June 11, 2025, lawmakers and farmers voiced strong concerns over the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its handling of wild and feral pig regulations. The discussion highlighted what many described as the "weaponization" of state government against farmers, particularly regarding the classification and management of pigs.

Key points emerged around the DNR's authority to amend invasive species orders, which farmers argue has been misused to infringe on their rights. One farmer expressed frustration over the DNR's conflation of wild and feral pigs, stating, "It always was about location," and criticized the agency for taking control away from the Department of Agriculture, which historically managed these issues.

Legislators echoed these sentiments, with Representative Shriver lamenting the "persecution" of farmers who have long contributed to Michigan's agricultural heritage. He questioned the morale of those affected and whether they saw a path forward amidst ongoing regulatory challenges. Farmers responded with a mix of hope and frustration, emphasizing the need for legislative reforms to restore balance and fairness in the regulatory process.

The meeting also revealed a troubling pattern: despite court rulings that favored farmers, the DNR continued to pursue enforcement actions against them. This led to calls for a "loser pays" legal reform to level the playing field against the state's resources. One farmer recounted a recent court victory where a judge ruled that certain pigs were not invasive, yet the DNR's actions persisted, raising concerns about accountability.

As the meeting concluded, lawmakers committed to further investigating the DNR's practices and exploring potential reforms to protect farmers' rights. The ongoing battle over pig regulations in Michigan underscores a broader struggle between agricultural interests and state authority, with implications for the future of farming in the region.