October not only means fall harvest and Halloween, but also marks the start of the traditional hunting season in Michigan. With the current state of the farm economy and an earlier fall harvest, more farmers may be open to negotiating hunting leases, even for this year. Hunting serves as a valuable tool for managing wildlife and mitigating crop damage and disease exposure for livestock. It also provides an opportunity for hunters and conservation groups to contribute to habitat restoration and firearm safety initiatives. However, successful hunting arrangements require effective communication and cooperation between landowners, farmers, and guest hunters. Both parties should establish expectations regarding behavior, hunting rights, property boundaries, liability insurance, and safety considerations. Written agreements are recommended to ensure clarity and protect the interests of all parties involved. The Michigan Farm Bureau and other sources offer sample lease forms that can be accessed online. Additionally, the Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act provides premises liability protection for landowners in the event of injuries on their property, regardless of permission or fees charged [a3627a57].