Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board recommended Wednesday to the Michigan Legislature that 117 recreation development projects and land acquisitions totaling $45,592,200 be funded in 2022. The board this year considered a total of 136 applications seeking over $59.1 million in funding. In a competitive process, all eligible applications were evaluated based on scoring criteria approved by the Trust Fund board.

“The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund continues to provide the significant investment that creates better, broader access to quality outdoor recreation opportunities for Michigan residents and visitors throughout our state,” said Whitmer. “Whether you’re camping, enjoying a park close to home, exploring forest trails or just taking in a scenic view, all of these Trust Fund-supported experiences contribute mightily to local economies and our mental and physical well-being.”

The Trust Fund board recommends funding to both state and local agencies for development projects and land acquisitions that will further access to public outdoor recreation.