What's happening: Four Upper Peninsula recreation development acquisitions headline a $41.7 million funding push by the Michigan National Resources Trust Fund Board. The projects in Marquette, Alger and Houghton counties total $6.4 million — including the largest expense of the project: the purchase of the Michigamme Highlands in Marquette County. The acquisition will connect Michigamme Highlands to Craig Lake State Park.
Other U.P. projects slated for funding include Whitefish Point State Harbor in Chippewa County, Eddy Park Campground in Wakefield and the Eagle Harbor Beach Accessibility Project in Keweenaw County.
What is the approval process: The Michigan National Resources Trust Fund Board funding projects are recommendations. The funding must be approved by legislators and signed by the governor. These rules and procedures were established when the fund was created in 1976; funds are generated through interest and earnings on funds derived from the revenues of state-owned oil, gas and minerals.
Overall, the fund is used to purchase lands and make them public. Whether reserved for resource protection or outdoor recreation, the Trust Fund has granted more than $1.3 billion to project over the last 48 years.
What they're saying: “Outdoor recreation is not only vital to our state’s health and well-being – providing more access to restorative places and local parks -– but it also supports the state’s efforts to attract and retain talent; support small businesses; and fuel innovation and economic prosperity,” said Brad Garmon, senior strategic advisor and executive director of the Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office.
What's next: The Trust Fund board's recommendations will be submitted to the Michigan Legislature for review during the appropriations process, which is expected after the current lame duck session. If approved, the Legislature will draft a bill and send it to the governor for final approval and signing.
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