Michigan's Department of Natural Resources is teaming with other conservation agencies in a year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Migratory Bird Treaty.
The U.S. signed the treaty with Great Britain 1916. The British were acting on behalf of Canada. Similar agreements were reached shortly thereafter with Japan, Russia and Mexico.
All are designed to protect birds that migrate across international borders, including Michigan's piping plover.
Scientists say migratory birds provide environmental benefits such as pollination and seed dispersal. They are good indicators of environmental health, because they are so visible and relatively easy to study. Some help farmers and landowners by eating insects and rodents.
The centennial celebration in Michigan will include monthly stories on featured birds in DNR publications and education programs at parks and schools.