June 5, 2006

Solution Requested by June 14 Board Meeting

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has asked the Natural Resources Trust Fund Board to adopt a policy that will recognize the public and private support needed to protect and promote Michigan’s natural resources.
 
Granholm’s request comes on the heels of a proposed gift from Fred Meijer that would provide a million dollars to fund improvements to the White Pine Trail in West Michigan.
 
“Fred Meijer is a great Michiganian and we must find a way to embrace his generosity and the generosity of others who want to ensure that our magnificent natural resources can be enjoyed for generations to come,” Granholm said.  “The Meijer gift represents a wonderful opportunity for Michigan and we want to be able to accept his gift as well as others that may be offered.”
 
Specifically, Granholm is asking that the board develop a resolution that allows the state to accept the generous donation from the Meijer Foundation for the White Pine Trail, while still recognizing the other significant public and private support the trail has received.  Granholm is asking the board to resolve this issue at its next meeting scheduled for June 14.

The Governor has also asked the board to develop a long-term policy that allows the state to recognize both the public and private support it takes to protect and promote Michigan’s natural resources.  That policy should address the naming of trails, parks and other publicly acquired resources.