If all proceeds according to plan, fans of Love Creek County Park will have more than 12 new acres of land to ski, bike and hike on in a sizable expansion of the colorful park at Berrien Center next year.
The Berrien County Parks Commission announced this morning that the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund has recommended a grant of $56,000 for the acquisition of those 12+ acres that adjoin Love Creek County Park.
Berrien County Parks Commission Chairman Dick Schinkel tells us, “The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund plays a vital role in supporting natural resource protection, recreation opportunities, tourism and the economy for the people of Michigan and Berrien County. This funding will provide for the acquisition of adjoining land at Love Creek County Park and allow us to expand our ski, biking and hiking trails in a truly beautiful and unique area of Berrien County.”
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund receives its funding from royalties from the lease and sale of State owned mineral rights. No tax dollars are used for the MNRTF grants that are funded. All grants are required to provide 25-percent in local matching funds.
Kip Miller is Love Creek Naturalist and he’s ecstatic, saying, “We are very fortunate that the property owner is willing to work with us on the grant process and understands the importance of this adjoining land becoming part of Love Creek County Park.”
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund recommendations now move to the Michigan Legislature for funding approval and to Governor Snyder for his signature. Typically, this part of the process is completed by summer, so Berrien County will likely take possession of the 12+ acres of property in late summer, 2018. Stay tuned.
