Whitmer Appointed Two to Natural Resources Commission
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has nominated George Lindquist and Trevor Lauer to fill upcoming commission vacancies.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Hunting
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Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointments of conservationist George Lindquist and DTE Energy executive Trevor Lauer to the Michigan Natural Resources Commission. Both candidates face upcoming confirmation by the Michigan Senate to fill seats vacated at the end of the year.
Why it matters
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission serves as the primary body overseeing state hunting and fishing regulations. These appointments ensure the commission maintains its seven-member capacity as current members reach the end of their service.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission is capped at seven members, with no more than four allowed from the same political party. Appointees are slated to serve four-year terms if confirmed.
The players
Gretchen Whitmer
She is the current Governor of Michigan.
George Lindquist
He is a conservationist and hunter from Negaunee who has been nominated to the commission.
Trevor Lauer
He is a group president at DTE Energy and an independent nominee for the commission.
David Nyberg
He is an outgoing member of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.
John Walters
He is an outgoing member of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.
The details
George Lindquist, a hunter and conservationist based in Negaunee, will join the commission as a Democrat. Trevor Lauer, a resident of Bloomfield Hills and group president at DTE Energy, joins as an independent to fill the remaining vacancy.
Timeline
The current terms of David Nyberg and John Walters expire on December 31, 2026.
If confirmed, Lindquist and Lauer will serve four-year terms concluding in 2030.
Culture Shift
The appointment process follows the Michigan Natural Resources Commission statutory membership requirements. These rules ensure the board reflects a balanced political composition while managing state wildlife policy.
The commission makes the rules governing hunting and fishing seasons throughout Michigan. Residents should expect these new members to influence future licensing, bag limits, and conservation efforts across the state.
The takeaway
These appointments signify a transition in the oversight of Michigan's vast natural resources as current terms conclude. Residents interested in wildlife management should follow upcoming Senate confirmation proceedings to understand the future direction of commission policy.
What happens next
The nominees await a confirmation hearing in the Michigan Senate to finalize their appointments for the 2027-2030 cycle.
Further reading
For more on how state policy impacts regional outdoor activities, explore the Hunting section.
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