Preserving Michigan

“Preserving Michigan” is an ongoing series exploring the history and impact of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund on the people and communities of Michigan. The series is underwritten by the Michigan Environmental Council. Issue Media Group maintains editorial independence for all of our underwritten content. Please review our editorial underwriting policy for more information.

A modular Hot 'n Now arrived in Wayland by truck and placed down by crane.

Northern Michigan entrepreneur utilizes modular building tech in bid to revive fast-food chain

"Today, we are one step closer to bringing the nostalgic Hot ‘n Now brand back with new refreshed elements," says Monica King, CEO of GLI. "It's very exciting to witness the assembly process and watch that iconic logo and red roof top it all off!"

The Mason Public Library is located at 145 W. Ash St. in downtown Mason.
Mason wins $250K grant for historic preservation project

“The Certified Local Government program continues to be one of the strongest tools for supporting historic preservation projects at the local level,” says State Historic Preservation Officer Ryan M. Schumaker.

Stewardship Series continues this summer and fall with two additional all-ages workshops. 
Little Forks Stewardship Series builds momentum for Nelson Woods Nature Preserve

Little Forks Conservancy’s free 2025 Stewardship Series offers hands-on workshops at local preserves, teaching conservation skills from insect habitats to invasive species control and native seed collection.

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.
Once site to a historic pavilion, empty lot to be activated as pocket park in downtown Cheboygan

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.

"Today we’re transforming more abandoned or underutilized property sites into hundreds of units of quality, affordable homes across Michigan," says Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
New housing developments in Cadillac and Elk Rapids receive Brownfield grants to remove contaminants

"Today we’re transforming more abandoned or underutilized property sites into hundreds of units of quality, affordable homes across Michigan," says Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Stevens Hotel in 2012.
Fennville’s agritourism sector to be complemented by $4.8M ‘regeneration project’ of historic hotel

“The regeneration project will provide new jobs and tourism, boosting the local economy and helping to support Fennville as a premier West Michigan destination,” says developer Dori DePree.

The Tecumseh Area Historical Museum will launch a Mobile Oral History Project for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
From Tecumseh to Traverse City, Michigan history projects set for USA’s semiquincentennial in 2026

“This funding will empower these communities to elevate and share their local stories, which is vital to the understanding and preservation of our state’s rich history,” says Sandra Clark, director of the Michigan History Center.

The Chapin Mansion in downtown Niles was built in 1884.
Governor awards historic preservation projects in Charlevoix, Niles, and Rogers City

“We in Northern Michigan have watched our region grow and change over the decades, so it is particularly important that we remember our heritage,” says state Senator John Damoose.

“Now visitors of all abilities can experience the beauty of a cedar forest, stunning views into protected wetlands, and safe crossings of Finch Creek, a cold water stream feeding the Grass River,” says GRNA Executive Director, Jenn Wright.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for enhanced boardwalk at this Antrim County nature preserve

“Now visitors of all abilities can experience the beauty of a cedar forest, stunning views into protected wetlands, and safe crossings of Finch Creek, a cold water stream feeding the Grass River,” says GRNA Executive Director, Jenn Wright.

"Our goal is to receive submissions from every county in Michigan," said Lindsay Lights, chair of the Michigan Big Tree Hunt.
Statewide contest still seeks entries for Michigan’s largest trees in these 15 counties

"Our goal is to receive submissions from every county in Michigan," said Lindsay Lights, chair of the Michigan Big Tree Hunt.

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