Bumstead seeks funding to improve outdoor recreation opportunities for 34th District

Bumstead seeks funding to improve outdoor recreation opportunities for 34th District

LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Jon Bumstead on Friday announced he has introduced legislation that includes funding for outdoor recreation projects in the 34th District.

“West Michigan is home to some of the state’s most beautiful and abundant natural resources,” said Bumstead, R-Newaygo. “As an avid outdoorsman, it brings me great joy to see these wonderful opportunities for Michigan residents to enjoy the outdoors and I will continue to support measures that allow Michiganders to get out and enjoy some fresh air.”

Senate Bill 989, introduced by Bumstead, outlines funding for several 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 trust 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’s head trail system 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 multi-use, single-track, non-motorized 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.

“The Dragon Trail has been in the works for nearly a decade and has since gained statewide and national attention,” Bumstead said. “When it’s completed, the one-of-a-kind trail system will surely be a hit for those who visit.”

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.

“As chair of the Senate Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to continuing these funding efforts that exemplify the recreational opportunities our state has to offer,” Bumstead said.

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