“These lands are used for a variety of recreation activities and also support the state’s economy through tourism, the timber industry and job creation," said Scott Whitcomb, who is director of the DNR’s Office of Public Lands.
“The end result of this project will tie together and showcase the existing park amenities of the Hancock Beach and Campground with an expanse of outdoor space available for trail-based recreation and ecotourism, thus creating a sustainable recreation asset for both locals and visitors to enjoy," said Ian Helman, Hancock Trails Club board member.
“It’s pretty exciting, considering this could be the first known cougar reproduction in modern times in the western Great Lakes states,” said Brian Roell, large carnivore specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
“Michigan’s rural communities have told us time and again they struggle with awareness of federal funding sources available to them, and with the capacity to apply for funding when they become aware of it,” said Valarie Handy, USDA Rural Development Acting State Director for Michigan.
“The new facility is designed to better accommodate larger events, including business conventions,” says Tony Mancilla, general manager for Island Resort & Casino. “By offering expanded meeting space conveniently located between Lower Michigan and Northern Wisconsin, we will meet the increased demand from regional groups."
"The Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund will be a gamechanger for innovators and entrepreneurs who exist at the intersection of technology, industry, tourism, and natural resources, and who recognized that quality of life is often tied to the quality of outdoor recreation opportunities,” said Marty Fittante, CEO of InvestUP.
“This grant helps us further realize our goal of providing superior support and programming to our residents, their families and our workforce, enabling them to thrive and continue to grow together as a community,” said Ishpeming City Manager Craig Cugini.
Contrast Coffee Co. began as a coffee wholesaler and a way for a trio to make a difference in the community. Success has brought retail locations in the central U.P. and a difference in its circle of business and the community.
“As a fifth-generation family business and the oldest commercial fisher on Lake Superior, we recognize the integral role we play in the community,” said Dennis VanLandschoot, president of VanLandschoot & Sons Fish Market.
"These projects reflect our commitment to seizing opportunities that make Michigan an even better place for each of our 10 million-plus friends and neighbors to live, work, visit, play, and create futures," said Matt McCauley, senior vice president of Regional Prosperity for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
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