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MNRTF Resources & Advocacy Tools

Legislative Directory and App (Mobile Optimized)

MNRTF Letter Template for Legislators

MNRTF DNR Website

DNR Grant Workshop Presentation

Sample Grant Application - Berrien County Silver Beach

Has your organization received a MNRTF grant? Would you be willing to share your application materials? !

Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund

Funding Quality of Life Amenities Since 1976

Over 35 years, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) has provided more than $1 billion to local communities and the State of Michigan to fund grants to protect our state's natural resources and to develop outdoor recreation opportunities for residents. 

MNRTF projects help create vibrant communities and enhance resident quality of life. The Trust Fund is a key funding source for Michigan's park and recreation providers - grants have funded the development and expansion of parks and public greenspace, the creation of trail networks, the protection of our state's pristine beaches, forests and wetlands, and the improvement of park and facility accessibility to ensure equal access for all.

MRPA supports the original intent of the Trust Fund - to protect natural land and develop public recreation opportunities for residents. Attempts to redirect MNRTF dollars outside of acquisition and development projects goes agains the desire of Michigan residents, who have voted to protect the Trust Fund.

March 2015 - Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund News

On Tuesday, March 17, Governor Snyder signed legislation approving nearly $24.7 million in MNRTF grants. Now that it has been signed, House Bill 4078, sponsored by state Rep. Jon Bumstead, approves funds for 69 recreation projects and land purchases recommended by the trust fund board last December (see below). Read the full press release from Governor Snyder's office. The passing of House Bill 4078 makes it Public Act 7 of 2015, and allows communities throughout the state to create or improve recreation opportunities for Michigan residents.

"Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in North America. These grants will help give local communities the ability to create more quality recreation opportunities that encourage people of all ages and abilities to get outdoors. Every year, these projects boost the quality of life for Michigan residents, enhance local economies and encourage tourism in our state." Gov. Rick Snyder

December 2014 - MNRTF Recommendations

At the December 2014 MNRTF Board Meeting, the following MRPA members had grants recommended for Approval. Member acquisition grants totaled approximately $16,871,800.00 and member development grants totaled nearly $2.6 million. The recommendations of the board will now be sent to the legislature for appropriation. MRPA will monitor the progress of the legislation and advocate for swift approval.

Acquisition:

  • Delta Township - Mt. Hope Property Acquisition - $281,000.00
  • DNR - Various acquisitions throughout the state totaling $9,369,900.00
  • Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority - Hudson Mills Metropark Property Acquisition - $75,000.00
  • City of Houghton - Central Houghton Greenspace Natural Area - $80,500.00
  • Kent County - Two Rivers Park Addition - $810,000.00
  • City of Monroe - Urban Recreation Connections to the River Raisin Corridor - $4,986,200.00
  • City of Novi - Novi Northwest Neighborhood Park - $385,000.00
  • City of Southfield - Horsetail Woods Acquisition Project - $99,800.00
  • St Clair County - Blue Water River Walk Expansion Phase 2 Acquisition - $118,400.00
  • St Clair County - Bouvier Bay Waterfront Acquisition - $666,000.00

Development:

  • Bridgeport Charter Township - Cass River Water Trail, Davis Park - $121,100.00
  • City of Detroit - Coleman Young Playground Improvements - $300,000.00
  • City of Detroit - Dorais Playfield Improvements - $300,000.00
  • DNR - Various development projects totaling $900,000.00
  • Emmet County - Camp Petosega Water Access and Dock - $49,000.00
  • Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority - Stony Creek Boat Launch Redevelopment - $50,000.00
  • Oakland County - Universally Accessible Fishing Pier at Groveland Oaks Park- $36,300.00
  • City of Port Huron - Lakeside Park Universal Re-Development - $295,000.00
  • City of Southfield - Inglenook Park Renovation Project - $280,000.00
  • City of St Johns - City Park Improvements - $50,000.00
  • Wayne County - Ellsworth Boardwalk and Trailhead Parking $200,000.00

View the complete list of recommendations here:
2014 Development Recommendations  |  2014 Acquisition Recommendations

*Both are multi-page PDFs, continue scrolling for more results.

Learn more about the progress of the recommendations, and about the MNRTF at the Department of Natural Resources.