December 6, 2007

LANSING - The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board of Trustees today recommended to Governor Jennifer M. Granholm that 65 recreation projects and land acquisitions totaling nearly $34.5 million be funded for 2007.  The board considered 153 applications for projects and acquisitions totaling $75 million, which were competitively evaluated based on scoring criteria developed by the board.

"Outdoor recreation in Michigan contributes more than $8 billion to our economy," said Granholm.  "These projects represent an investment in the quality of life in our state and will be enjoyed by citizens and visitors for generations.  I am pleased to accept these recommendations from the trust fund board."

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 1985, Michigan voters chose to make the MNRTF part of Michigan's constitution, ensuring this program's future.

"The recommendations made today by the trust fund board will help us further protect and showcase Michigan's abundant natural resources," said Department of Natural Resources Director Rebecca Humphries.  "In Michigan, we are blessed with woods, water, fish and game, and the outdoor recreation opportunities created by our natural resources help enhance our quality of life. The grant recommendations made today will help communities offer new opportunities for families and visitors to enjoy Michigan's great outdoors."

"Since 1976, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund has awarded over $700 million in grants," said MNRTF Chair Bob Garner.  "As the trust fund enters its fourth decade of serving Michigan's citizens, it's important to recognize that every penny of this fund is used to improve recreation and recreational access, and to add to local and state projects to develop parks and preserve unique areas of the state.  This investment in Michigan's recreation and economic future will see benefits for generations to come."

The next step in the process is for Governor Granholm to forward these recommendations to the 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 board's recommendations.

The final recommendations made by the trust fund board are attached.

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