Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund board recommends 99 development and acquisitions projects totaling $39.6 million

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board of Trustees has recommended to Michigan Legislature that 99 recreation development projects and land acquisitions totaling $39,665,200 be funded in 2012. The board this year had considered 145 applications for development and acquisition projects totaling $63,748,000, which were competitively evaluated based on scoring criteria developed by the MNRTF board.

“Natural resources and recreation continue to be among Michigan’s greatest strengths,” said Governor Rick Snyder. “The board’s recommendations are a wise investment in Michigan’s economic future and quality of life. I appreciate the work of the trustees and look forward to enhanced outdoor and recreational opportunities across our state.”

The Trust Fund board can recommend funding for both development projects and acquisitions to local and state agencies. This year, the Trust Fund board awarded 63 percent of its funding ($14,835,800) available for acquisitions to local units of government, and 37 percent ($8,775,000) to the Department of Natural Resources. For recreational development projects, the board recommended 93 percent ($14,854,400) of the available funding for projects proposed by local units of government, and just 7 percent ($1.2 million) for projects proposed by the DNR.

The MNRTF 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.

This year, the Trust Fund celebrates its 35th anniversary. In its 35 years, the Trust Fund has awarded land acquisition and recreation development grants for projects in nearly every county in Michigan. For more information on the trust fund, go to www.michigan.gov/mnrtf.

“The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund continues to be a vital program for communities around the state to enhance their livability and provide outstanding recreational opportunities for our citizens and visitors,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Rodney Stokes. “These projects will provide hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities, and protect special places that make our state unique.”

From here, the recommendations go to the Michigan Legislature for their review and to go through the appropriations process. The Legislature will then forward a bill to the Governor for his approval. Typically, this part of the process is completed by the end of the summer following the Trust Fund Board’s recommendations.