Title
Resolution to Approve Application for and Acceptance of Designation as a Bird City Michigan
Memorandum
This resolution recommends the City apply for, and if awarded, accept designation as, a Bird City Michigan. Bird City is a program of the American Bird Conservancy and Environment for the Americas that seeks to promote conservation of birds and bird habitat. Bird City designees commit to a number of action items each year to further promote conservation and celebrate birds. Parks & Recreation’s Natural Area Preservation division, the Office of Sustainability, and other local partner organizations are all already completing many of the actions that would make the City of Ann Arbor eligible for Bird City designation. Designation as a Bird City can lead to many community benefits such as improved habitat for birds and other wildlife, increased community engagement and pride, educational opportunities about birds and nature, and potential for ecotourism and economic growth.
Background
In February of 2025, the City of Ann Arbor was approached by Michigan Audubon to discuss the potential for pursuing a Bird City Michigan designation. For over 30 years, the City of Ann Arbor has actively stewarded the park system’s natural areas and has also coordinated bird-related community science and educational programming across that time. The City’s bird-related programming is a key feature of the wider birding community’s activities, and the importance of birding activities, culture, and science within the community is well understood. Staff believe pursuit of a Bird City Michigan designation aligns with our past, present, and future work in bird and habitat conservation.
To receive a formal designation, the City would need to submit a Bird City Michigan application. The attached resolution recommends City Council approval of both an application to Bird City Michigan and subsequent approval of adoption of the Bird City Michigan designation, if awarded.
Approval of this resolution is recommended by staff.
Staff
Prepared by: Becky Hand, NAP Supervisor - Parks & Recreation Services
Remy Long, Parks & Recreation Services Deputy Manager
Josh Landefeld, Parks & Recreation Services Manager
Reviewed by: Derek Delacourt, Community Services Area Administrator
Approved by: Milton Dohoney Jr., City Administrator
Body
Whereas, Birds play an important ecological role in our community, controlling insect pests and contributing to pollination and seed dispersal;
Whereas, Birds plan an important economic role in our community, attracting tourists and generating millions in recreational dollars statewide;
Whereas, Migratory birds and their habitats are declining throughout the Americas, facing a growing number of threats on their migration routes and in both their summer and winter homes;
Whereas, Public awareness and concern are crucial components of migratory bird conservation;
Whereas, Since 1993 World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) has become a primary vehicle for focusing public attention on the nearly 350 species that travel between nesting habitats in our communities and throughout North America and their wintering grounds in South and Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the southern U.S.;
Whereas, Through Bird City, hundreds of thousands of people will observe WMBD, gathering in town squares, community centers, schools, parks, nature centers, and wildlife refuges to learn about birds, take action to conserve them, and simply to have fun;
Whereas, Community members enthusiastic about birds, informed about the threats they face, and empowered to help address those threats can directly contribute to maintaining healthy bird populations;
Whereas, Sound policies and practices enhancing natural ecosystems and reducing threats to birds also make healthier communities for people;
Whereas, Bird City is an initiative to build relationships within local communities and guide action to protect and conserve birds;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor finds that it is in the best interest of the community and its residents to show its support for the Bird City initiative; and
Whereas, The City's Park Advisory Commission recommended City Council's passage of this resolution at its February 25th, 2025 meeting;
RESOLVED, That City Council approves application for, and if approved, acceptance of the City’s designation as a Bird City of Michigan; and
RESOLVED, That the City Administrator is authorized to take all necessary actions to implement this resolution.