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Community
Community
LANSING — Like most organizations getting started in social media more than a decade ago, the DNR took its first step on Facebook. Some staffers even remember the excitement at reaching 10,000 followers – a big milestone at the time.
Today, the department’s online presence has grown to include Instagram (48,000 followers), Twitter (40,000 followers), YouTube (9,000 subscribers) and Pinterest (5,100 monthly viewers). And that DNR Facebook page? It’s now up over 238,000 followers
The DNR has evolved socially from simple information posts to livestream tours of state fish hatcheries and Q&A sessions with wildlife and fish biologists and conservation officers, as well as plenty of short videos that help tell the story of outdoor recreation in Michigan.
“Our social media presence was even more critical in 2020 when people were increasingly eager to find outdoor spaces where they could spread out and just relax,” said Tyler Czarnopis, the DNR’s social media coordinator.
“Because of our strong social connections, we were able to help people find nearby state parks, state forests, trails, hunting and fishing opportunities and many other resources that were helpful in navigating life during the pandemic.”
The DNR’s social accounts (67 in all, including dozens of individual state park Facebook pages and a state parks Instagram feed) are among the most active in state government. Czarnopis said the DNR receives over 75,000 messages a year through the department’s social channels.
“Looking ahead, we’re going to rely on our social channels throughout 2021, too, as the DNR celebrates its centennial year,” Czarnopis said.
“Watch our platforms for centennial stories, programs and events, as well as creative ways to safely celebrate and learn about Michigan’s amazing natural and cultural resources.”
Connect with all of the DNR’s social platforms through the links above or at Michigan.gov/DNRSocial – where you’ll also find social links for the Michigan History Center and Mackinac State Historic Parks.