St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

The Michigan Senate Committee on Appropriations has approved the 2025 recommendations for the state’s Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF), advancing plans for a series of recreation and land acquisition projects. State Senator John Damoose, R-Harbor Springs, supported the committee’s decision.

“The Natural Resources Trust Fund helps protect and enhance access to Michigan’s natural resources,” said Damoose. “Many Michigan families, including my own, enjoy spending time outdoors, and these funds help open doors to recreational opportunities across the state and offer significant improvements here in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.”

The NRTF receives its funding from interest earned through state-owned mineral rights development. By law, this money can only be used for recreation improvements and acquiring land for public use.

This year’s recommendations include almost $42 million allocated for 68 recreational development projects as well as 17 land acquisition efforts throughout Michigan. The 37th Senate District is set to receive more than $2.3 million spread across seven local projects.

“These projects will help highlight just how much our region has to offer,” Damoose said. “I proudly supported the release of these funds during the committee vote and look forward to helping get this bill through the Legislature and signed into law so we can start getting shovels in the ground.”