Dec. 1, 2010

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board of Trustees today recommended to Governor Jennifer M. Granholm that 117 recreation projects and land acquisitions totaling $102,098,400 be funded in 2011. The board this year had considered 165 applications for development and acquisition projects totaling $140.4 million, which were competitively evaluated based on scoring criteria developed by the MNRTF board.

"Michigan's remarkable natural resources help to make our state more appealing to residents and visitors alike," said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "The important work of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund makes it possible to acquire and safeguard some of our most beautiful natural and recreational areas for the enjoyment of current and future generations."

The trust fund is a restricted fund that was established in 1976 to provide a source of funding for public acquisition of lands for resource protection and outdoor recreation. The funding is derived from royalties on the sale and lease of state-owned mineral rights. In 1985, Michigan voters chose to make the MNRTF part of Michigan's constitution, ensuring this program's future.

"Michigan's leadership in conservation and outdoor recreation continues to be enhanced by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund," said Department of Natural Resources and Environment Director Rebecca Humphries. "The recommendations made by the MNRTF board today help solidify our national leadership in this area, while providing a variety of outstanding opportunities for everyone to experience Michigan's great outdoors."

From here, the recommendations go to Governor Granholm for her review. She will then forward them to the Michigan Legislature for appropriation of the funds from the MNRTF. Typically, this part of the process is completed by the end of the summer following the Trust Fund board's recommendations.

See the list of the final recommendations made by the Trust Fund board.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is committed to the conservation, protection, management, and accessible use and enjoyment of the state's environment, natural resources, and related economic interests for current and future generations. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/dnre.