The Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Natural Resources Commission honored the Michigan Chapter of the Safari Club International as a Partner in Conservation at the NRC's monthly meeting Thursday in Lansing.

"Safari Club International has provided tremendous support to the DNR, and in particular to our Law Enforcement Division," said DNR Director Rebecca Humphries. "SCI is tremendously active in hunter safety and education programs and has provided generous support for the technology needs of our conservation officers."

Among the support that the Michigan Chapter of SCI has provided to the DNR is the purchase of multiple in-car video systems for conservation officer patrol vehicles to document arrests. Conservation officers report that the systems have been invaluable in helping new judges better understand conservation law violations.

SCI also has supplied two kayaks to conservation officers to use in investigations on streams and smaller lakes with limited access, purchased 800 megahertz Com-Ports to allow hands-free transmitting from portable radios, and a tranquilizer dart gun for the Wildlife Division's bear program.

SCI also has sponsored and participates in the Michigan Hunter Safety Program and the National Safe Hunter's Competition. The group also provided free gun locks to law enforcement agencies in four West Michigan counties, and is a founding member of Michigan Sportsmen for Youth and is a sponsor of "Youth Day" at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in Muskegon. SCI has supported the "Safari in a Box" program at Michigan state parks and provides support to mail the Michigan United Conservation Clubs' "Tracks" Magazine to all fourth and fifth graders in West Michigan.

"SCI truly has helped our law enforcement efforts and has set time aside to help youth interested in hunting and fishing," Humphries added. "They are great stewards of our natural resources, and are helping prepare the next generation of conservationists in our state. I am pleased to give the Michigan Chapter this recognition as a Partner in Conservation."

The Partner in Conservation Award is given out to organizations and individuals that assist the DNR in its mission. Honorees are nominated by DNR employees.