LANSING, Mich. — The state Legislature on Thursday approved legislation sponsored by state Sen. Jon Bumstead that includes funding for outdoor recreation projects in the 34th District and the state of Michigan.
“This legislation will improve recreation opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts across the state,” said Bumstead, R-Newaygo. “As an avid outdoorsman myself, I’m grateful the projects are moving forward and I am eager to see the final products.”
Senate Bill 145 outlines funding for Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF) projects throughout the state, including popular attractions in and around the senator’s district.
The NRTF provides a constitutionally protected source of funding for public outdoor recreation and the public acquisition of lands for resource protection. The Trust Fund was established in 1976 and was later added to the Michigan Constitution. The fund is supported by interest earned on funds generated from the development of state-owned mineral rights.
Bumstead’s bill would provide funding to continue development and improvements to the Dragon Trail and to increase access to Spring Lake and the connecting waterways.
The bill includes $180,100 for the Dragon Trail at Hardy Dam in Newaygo County and an additional $205,400 for the trail in Mecosta County. Upon completion, the trail will be a multiuse, single-track, nonmotorized trail intended for hiking and bicycle traffic. The planned route is 42 miles in length and will have six trailheads with parking at existing recreation sites. The trail will feature 13 designated overlooks.
Bumstead’s legislation also includes $125,000 for the Pomona Park Kayak Launch in Fruitport. The funding aims to provide visitors a new way to access Spring Lake and the surrounding waterways. Upon completion, the site will feature an extended parking lot and a new, universally accessible kayak launch and boardwalk. The site will also include benches, interpretive signage and bike racks.
“I have supported the Natural Resources Trust Fund throughout my time in the Legislature, and in my role as chair of the Senate Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to support measures that get Michiganders outdoors to experience our state’s beautiful natural resources,” Bumstead said. “I am happy to see this measure see support from my colleagues in both chambers, and I hope to see the governor sign it into law.”
SB 145 will now go to Gov. Whitmer for consideration.
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