GREG MARKKANEN

The Upper Peninsula is the very essence of Pure Michigan, and its beauty is unmatched. I recently voted for a plan that invests in multiple projects across our region to make the U.P. even more attractive for recreationalists and tourists.

One project in the Keweenaw Peninsula will take place at the Douglass Houghton Falls, which is Michigan’s highest and most picturesque waterfalls at 110 feet. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will develop a 63-acre site with improvements that will allow the public to safely view the falls as well as other scenic areas. The improvements include revamped overlooks, access walks, parking and facility upgrades. A project in Marquette County will create a nature trail along the Iron Ore Heritage Trail in Negaunee. A new, non-motorized trail and boardwalk loop off the main trail will provide access to a natural marshland for bird and wildlife viewing.

Several other projects would also protect the natural splendor of our area. A proposed acquisition of 1,184 acres along the North Sturgeon River in Baraga County would include 8.5 miles of river frontage and 560 acres of wetlands. The site provides a habitat for a variety of animal species, and this acquisition would preserve their habitat. Development plans would include a paddle-craft launch, rustic camp sites and trail development, and would work within the natural landscape to protect the species that live there. Another project would expand Baraga Waterfront Park to enhance future recreational opportunities. These two projects would provide transformational opportunities for Baraga County.

In Hancock, a proposed 2-acre acquisition would expand access to the Portage Canal waterfront and allow for the future development of trails and other recreational activities. The canal connects Lake Superior with the Keweenaw Bay between Hancock and Houghton — and this project would raise its profile within our communities as a destination area.

The funding for the projects is part of Senate Bill 1028, which includes $45.6 million for 22 land acquisition and 95 recreational development projects throughout the state with revenues from the Natural Resources Trust Fund. The fund’s board signed off on the projects in December 2021 and many include locally matched funds.

I will continue to fight for crucial funding that helps our U.P. communities. It spurs growth and makes our area an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

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State Rep. Greg Markkanen of Hancock is in his second term in the Michigan House, representing residents of Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw and Ontonagon counties as well as Powell and Ishpeming townships in Marquette County.