NDA Volunteer of the Year: A Conversation with Michigan’s Todd Johnson
The National Deer Association’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year, Todd Johnson, joined Anna Mitterling for an in‑depth conversation about his background, his role in Michigan’s conservation community, and the ongoing work he leads through forestry, habitat management, advocacy, and the Northern Jack Pine Branch. The award recognizes exceptional dedication and meaningful contributions to deer conservation—and Todd’s impact across Michigan is a clear reflection of those values.
To view the interview, click below:
A Lifetime Rooted in Conservation
Todd describes his path into conservation and deer management as a lifelong journey. Today he runs Johnson Forestry, a forestry consulting business he launched five years ago, providing management services primarily across the northern Lower Peninsula. His work focuses on non‑industrial private forest lands, though he also regularly collaborates with state and federal agencies on:
- Access issues
- Timber and habitat projects
- Mineral rights considerations
- Emerging renewable energy questions, including wind and solar
Todd emphasized a foundational principle he learned early and still practices today: start by listening. When meeting with landowners, his first question is always, “What are your objectives?” This focus on listening and collaboration guides his forestry, conservation, and leadership roles across Michigan.
A Deep “Why” Behind the Work
Todd has spent decades committed to sustainable habitat, responsible deer management, and science‑based decision-making. His personal “why” for involvement in conservation is shaped by:
- A career steeped in forestry, ecology, and habitat systems
- A passion for healthy deer populations and resilient forests
- An understanding that long-term stewardship requires active engagement
- A belief that advocacy and volunteer-driven conservation shape the future of Michigan’s natural resources
These values fuel his continued leadership within the National Deer Association.
Interested in learning more about Wildlife Policy in Michigan? Check out this Blog Series.
NDA’s Stewardship Agreements with the U.S. Forest Service
The National Deer Association has reached a major milestone by entering long‑term stewardship agreements with the U.S. Forest Service—made possible by the organization’s size, scientific credibility, and financial integrity. Most notably, CEO Nick Pinizzotto recently signed a 20‑year agreement with the agency, underscoring the NDA’s national stature and capacity to deliver meaningful habitat work.
Unlike traditional federal timber sales, stewardship agreements allow habitat and mission‑driven projects to be embedded directly into the contract, providing greater flexibility and conservation impact. Through these agreements, NDA can implement wildlife, habitat, and forestry work that aligns directly with the organization’s mission.
In 2026, NDA will partner with the Hiawatha National Forest to conduct wildlife opening maintenance, one of many deliverables included within the current stewardship contracts. NDA now holds active stewardship agreements with both Upper Peninsula national forests—the Hiawatha and the Ottawa—a rare and significant opportunity for conservation work in Michigan.
For NDA branches in the Upper Peninsula, these agreements open the door to unprecedented involvement in large‑scale forest and habitat projects. Combined with additional DNR funding for deer wintering complexes, the region is positioned for major advancements in deer habitat restoration and management.
Leadership in the Northern Jack Pine Branch
Todd also highlighted successes within the NDA Northern Jack Pine Branch, where he is actively involved. In 2024, the branch received NDA’s Event of the Year Award, reflecting the strength of its community engagement and innovative fundraising.
A Few Highlights:
🎉 Award‑Winning Banquet
The branch is known for hosting one of Northern Michigan’s best wild game dinners, turning the annual banquet into a celebrated regional event. These fundraising efforts directly support conservation projects, educational programs, and advocacy work—including the ability to bring experts like Kip Adams to speak at state events.
🌲 Habitat Days
The branch provides hands‑on learning opportunities where members and community participants can:
- Tour forest stands
- Compare cover types
- Learn about selective harvests
- Understand timing and methodology behind forestry decisions
- See how habitat work directly improves deer management
These events are among the most practical and educational programs offered to local hunters and landowners.
🌱 New Cooperative in the Works
Todd shared that there is active discussion around establishing a new deer cooperative in Ogemaw County, a move strongly encouraged by other NDA leaders. While Todd must balance multiple ongoing projects, he expressed enthusiasm about the idea and the potential benefits a new cooperative could bring.
A Well‑Deserved Honor and a Bright Path Ahead
Throughout the conversation, Todd remained humble about receiving NDA’s Deer Volunteer of the Year award, saying many others are equally deserving. But his work—spanning forestry, habitat recovery, advocacy, education, collaboration, and branch leadership—clearly reflects the qualities celebrated by the award.
With leaders like Todd, the NDA’s mission continues to thrive—bringing together science, stewardship, and community for the long-term health of Michigan’s deer and forests.
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