LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan may be spending more than $27 million in recreation land development projects after the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board submitted a recommendation to the legislature last week. 

“A recent U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis showcased outdoor recreation as an economic driver to the nation’s economy, and this certainly stands true for Michigan. However, it’s far from the only benefit of outdoor recreation,” said DNR Director Scott Bowen. “Assisted by Trust Fund dollars, outdoor recreation also affords substantial health benefits for all who enjoy Michigan’s natural and cultural wonders. Whether enjoying a crisp, fall day while on a leisurely neighborhood stroll, experiencing a summer afternoon in your kayak, or venturing on a winter evening snowshoe hike on a state park trail, the physical and mental health benefits abound.”

How many projects has the board considered?

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So far this year, the board has considered more than 120 projects and applications seeking roughly $52 million in funding. The Trust Fund board recommends funding at the state and local agencies to help further access to public outdoor recreation. 

This year, the board’s recommendations encompassed $17.5 million in acquisition grants and $9.8 million in development grants.  Additionally, it recommended 35 development grants totaling roughly $9.8 million to be awarded to local units of government. 

When did Michigan establish the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board?

The unique board was established in 1976 to “provide funding for public acquisition of lands for resource protection and outdoor recreation, as well as for public outdoor recreation development projects,” according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.  The fund is made possible through interest and earnings on the funds derived from the revenues of state-owned oil, gas, and minerals. 

“No other state has a constitutionally protected acquisition fund, like the Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund, to purchase land in partnership with municipal entities and rural communities for public recreational purposes,” said Trust Fund Board Chair Steve Hamp. “No other state has the same fund for the development and improvement of existing recreational facilities, creating and improving beaches, parks, marinas, hunting preserves, kayak launches, stretches of prime fishing rivers and lakes, trail systems and much more.”

How has the Trust Fund delivered?

Within the past 46 years, the Trust Fund has delivered more than $1.3 billion in grants to state and local units of government to further outdoor recreation development. 

To see the complete list of recommendations by the board, see here.