LANSING – State Representative Kate Ebli (D-Monroe) today hailed the decision by the Board of Trustees of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) to recommend funding for the Monroe Academy Preserve's acquisition of 128 acres of land in the City of Monroe and Frenchtown Township.
"I'm very pleased by the decision of the Board of Trustees to approve funding for the Academy Preserve," Ebli said. "Michigan's great beauty lies in her open and unspoiled places. We must be vigilant in protecting them, so that our children and future generations will be able to enjoy their beauty just as we have."
The acquisition of this land will protect a variety of ecosystems from destruction and keep them available for public recreation. The 128 acres includes an oak savannah, oak-hickory forest, farmland, a lowland forest, and a forested island in the River Raisin.
The MNRTF approval of nearly $2.2 million for the Academy Preserve acquisition was one of 81 projects selected out of 159 applications. At $48.5 million in total funding recommended for the 81 projects, this is the largest amount the MNRTF board has ever recommended for grants. Final appropriation of these funds will be subject to approval by the Legislature.
"Millions of residents and visitors enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan in places like Monroe County every day," Ebli said. "By preserving these areas, not only are we creating a better quality of life for our families, but we're making sure Michigan remains a wonderful tourist destination. That means more good-paying jobs for our residents and ensures that Monroe County will be a great place to live, work, and raise a family for a long time to come."