State Rep. Beth Griffin today voted for a plan that includes support for the Cornish State Game Area in Van Buren County.

The plan approved by Griffin and the Michigan House includes $534,600 to buy 126 additional acres to expand the game area established in 2015.

“Expanding this game area would make an excellent Van Buren County attraction even better,” Griffin said. “It’s a great opportunity to improve an important public hunting and outdoor recreation spot.”

The established game area now has 385 acres adjacent to the 77-acre federal Kinney Waterfowl Production Area.

The property will be managed for waterfowl and grassland birds, with hunting opportunities including deer, turkey, pheasant, waterfowl and other small game.

Overall, the legislation approved by the House includes $26 million for more than 60 projects statewide. The money would come from the Natural Resources Trust Fund, which according to the Michigan constitution can only be used to support these types of projects.

The projects were recommended by the Natural Resources Trust Fund Board in December. The recommendations are subject to approval by the Michigan Legislature, a process carried out through House Bill 4244.

The legislation advances to the Senate for further consideration.

Money in the Natural Resources Trust Fund comes from the development of minerals on state land and is distributed on an annual basis in partnership with local governments.

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