Reps. Lightner, Witwer Named Michigan Legislators of the Year

State Representatives Sarah Lightner and Angela Witwer have been named Michigan Ducks Unlimited (DU) co-legislators of the year for their dedication to improving wetland habitat.

Since the late 1930s DU has conserved more than 90,000 acres in Michigan, investing $55 million on nearly 500 projects statewide. That conservation work has benefited wildlife, enhanced recreational opportunities, and supported the state’s economy. DU could not continue protecting native habitats without support from the state legislature.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from Ducks Unlimited, an organization that has had a profound impact on the conservation of Michigan’s wetlands," Witmer said. "The health of our wetlands is intertwined with the well-being of communities and local economies across the state. I want to extend my gratitude for the remarkable progress Ducks Unlimited achieved for habitat conservation in our state, and to reaffirm my utmost support and appreciation for the relationship between Ducks Unlimited and our Legislature. I look forward to continuing to collaborate closely with this dedicated organization to support their critical work in our state.”

According to Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, the state has just over 275,000 acres of wetland acres remaining. Michigan has lost 50% of its historic wetlands and, in some locations—Saginaw Bay and Lake Erie watersheds—that loss is as high as 90%.

In 2023, Michigan made a serious commitment to Great Lakes water quality and the wildlife and people that depend on that habitat by allocating $13 million to strategic wetland restoration. The funding is critical to creating healthy wetlands, which filter nutrients before returning water to Michigan’s lakes, rivers, and streams.

“It is a great honor to be recognized with this award by Ducks Unlimited, an outstanding organization critical to environmental stewardship in Michigan," Lightner said. "As the Great Lakes State, we are responsible for safeguarding our natural resources and conscientiously managing our robust outdoor economy to ensure access for future generations. I’m proud to work with Ducks Unlimited and its thousands of passionate members to support such conservation efforts across our state. I look forward to continued collaboration in maintaining our wetlands and passing on the time-honored tradition of waterfowl hunting.”