MUSKEGON, Mich. — A project working to restore Dune Harbor Park in Muskegon County will be getting a boost thanks to a $250,000 grant from Consumers Energy.
Each year, the Consumers Energy Foundation distributes Planet Award grants to nonprofit projects that work to preserve and restore the environment in Michigan. This year, Muskegon County and Macomb County were selected.
“This year’s Planet Award winners will not only protect and preserve those resources but restore ones that were otherwise considered lost," said Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation. "Their work will have significant and long-term benefits for Muskegon and Macomb counties, and we look forward to seeing their projects in action.”
The grants will go toward the following projects:
- Muskegon County Parks Department, Muskegon
- Grant funding supports the ecological restoration of Dune Harbor Park, a 377-acre property that was previously a sand mine. Restoration activities will include invasive species removal, planting of native foliage, and the establishment of pollinator habitat. Trail access enhancement, installation of interpretive signage, and other improvements will foster environmental stewardship and encourage the public to enjoy recreational opportunities at the park.
- Six Rivers Regional Land Conservancy, Macomb
- Grant funding supports the Monarch Meadows project which will protect 64 acres of land near Selfridge Air Force Base and restore over half of it to native meadow. Restoration activities will include a tree planting program, invasive species removal, and installation of native wildflower habitat to create a beautiful natural area for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Muskegon County Administrator Mark Eisenbarth thanked Consumers Energy and said the grant will help revitalize the park.
“Creating sustainable, long term recreation opportunities for residents and visitors will take a community-wide commitment and collaborative efforts," said Eisenbarth. "This funding will allow Muskegon County Parks to develop plans and implement projects to restore the park’s native landscapes and build community engagement and educational programs for the future."
Find more about the project at Dune Harbor Park here.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Watch 13 ON YOUR SIDE for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and on your phone.
