The
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board of Trustees today
recommended to Governor Jennifer M. Granholm that 61 recreation projects
and land acquisitions totaling $36,076,075 be funded for 2006. The board
had considered 162 applications for projects and acquisitions totaling
$63 million, which were competitively evaluated based on scoring
criteria developed by the board.
"These recommendations represent a substantial economic investment in
the quality of life in Michigan," said Granholm. "The projects that won
recommendation from the board promise significant investments in public
outdoor recreation that many Michigan citizens and visitors value as a
way of life in our state."
The trust fund was established in 1976 to provide a source of funding
for public acquisition of lands for resource protection and public
outdoor recreation. The funding is derived from royalties on the sale
and lease of state-owned mineral rights. In 2006, the trust fund
received $57.4 million in royalties.
"The recommendations of the trust fund board will help us to protect
some incredible areas of the state," said Department of Natural
Resources Director Rebecca Humphries. "The project development grants
will help communities provide outdoor recreation opportunities to
citizens and visitors, boosting out economy and further showcasing the
wonder of Michigan's abundant natural resources."
"Since 1976, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund has provided
over $650 million in funding,"said MNRTF Chair Sam Washington. "As the
trust fund celebrates its 30th anniversary serving Michigan, it's
important to recognize that every penny of this fund is used to improve
recreation, recreational access and to add to local and state projects
to develop parks and preserve unique areas of the state."
Click here to see the complete list of 2006 Acquisition Grants.
Click here to see the complete list of 2006 Development Grants.