State Rep. Greg Markkanen this month secured over $1.4 million for natural resource preservation projects throughout the Western Upper Peninsula. State funding comes from the Natural Resource Trust Fund (NRTF), which is earned through state land leases for oil and gas mineral exploration.

“Considering how much of Michigan’s natural beauty is located north of the Mackinac Bridge, the U.P. gets the short end of the stick for state preservation funding far too often,” said Markkanen, R-Hancock. “I’m glad we could secure key resources for so many projects in the Western U.P. These dollars will make campgrounds more accessible, expand popular walking trails, and continue ongoing conservation efforts.”

Projects in the Western U.P. include:

$274,200 of NRTF funding would support the Eddy Park Campground camper shelters project. The proposal would enhance the campground on Sunday Lake with additional campsites with camper shelters. Each campsite would include a camper shelter with a water connection, an electrical pedestal, and a fire pit and picnic table. Other improvements include an accessible trail from each campsite to parking and campground restrooms. The total project cost is $365,600, with the City of Wakefield covering the remainder.

$400,000 of NRTF funding would support the Swedetown Chalet Renovation and Trail Addition project. The renovation would improve restroom accessibility and concession service and add a dining and warming area and a one-mile trail loop for hikers and cross-country skiers. The total project cost is $541,000, with Calumet Charter Township covering the remainder.

$215,000 of NRTF funding would support the Heritage Trail Extension to Bewabic State Park. The development would extend the Heritage Trail from Donahue Park to Bewabic State Park. The project adds nearly half a mile of paved trail in Iron County and features a scenic rest stop on the stream connecting Mud Lake with Fortune Lakes. The total project cost is $307,200, with Crystal Falls Township covering the remainder.

$83,700 of NRTF funding would support the Eagle Harbor Beach Accessibility Project. The proposal is for the development of shoreline accessibility and erosion reduction safeguards. The project will include benches, a beach wall, an access ramp, and a mobility beach mat to provide access to Lake Superior. The total project cost is $111,600, with Eagle Harbor Township covering the remainder.

$440,000 of NRTF funding would support the Sturgeon River Sloughs Acquisition project, which includes the addition of 320 acres to the Sturgeon River Sloughs Wildlife Management Area. The property provides habitat for a variety of species and includes a portion of the Snake River. The property is publicly accessible and located just south of the Houghton-Hancock area. The land will be open for hunting, trapping, fishing, and other wildlife-related recreation.

The NRTF proposals for 2025, if signed into law and approved by the Senate, would provide $41.8 million for 17 land acquisition and 68 recreational development projects.

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