Michigan's 50-Year Conservation Fund Crosses $1.4bn in Land and Recreation Grants

Michigan's Natural Resources Trust Fund is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, having supported land conservation and outdoor recreation since 1976. The fund was established using revenues generated from oil, gas, and mineral extraction on state-owned land. Over its lifetime, it has distributed nearly $1.4 billion in grants across Michigan. Its most recent funding round includes $6.5 million to acquire approximately 22,650 acres in the Keweenaw Peninsula. Additional grants have gone toward parks, trails, waterfront areas, and various recreation projects statewide.