State Rep. Ken Borton today voted for planned recreational upgrades throughout Northern Michigan that he worked to secure in the Legislature.

Within House Bill 4238 is grant funding to:

• Expand the Pigeon River Country State Forest: The state will add 440 acres of forestland, including over three quarters of a mile of Sturgeon River corridor.
• Expand the Backus Creek State Game Area: The state will acquire 480 acres adjacent to the 4,379-acre Backus Creek State Game Area.

“Here in Northern Michigan, folks are easily able to fuse the desire for human recreation with the enjoyment of our natural resources,” said Borton, of Gaylord. “These acquisitions will help enhance our communities, making it more enjoyable for both locals and visitors.”

Money in the Natural Resources Trust Fund comes from revenues generated by the development of minerals on state land – not taxpayer money – and is distributed on an annual basis in partnership with local governments. The money must be used for land acquisition or recreational development projects, according to the Michigan Constitution. The trust fund program dates back to the 1970s.

The recommendations within HB 4238 advance to the Senate for further consideration.

Ken Borton is serving his second term in the Michigan House. Borton serves on the House Appropriations committee, which oversees the state budget process. He serves as the Republican vice chair for the subcommittee on agriculture and rural development and natural resources.