Creating A Better Quality of Life in Michigan

In 1976, Michigan became the first state in the nation to establish a land trust fund specifically subsidized by revenues generated from the oil and gas industry. The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund is a significant way for every Michigan resident and visitor to benefit from an active oil and gas industry in the state.

Since its inception, the Fund has financed nearly 1,200 recreational projects throughout the state. No matter where you live or may visit, you’re just steps away from a project that has benefited from Michigan’s petroleum exploration and production industry.

This historic commitment to our natural resources was spearheaded in the 1970s by the Michigan Oil And Gas Association (MOGA), the Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Oil and gas industry leaders, environmentalists, conservationists and recreation groups have hailed the Fund as a significant investment in Michigan’s natural resource heritage. Money is distributed based on the Fund’s six program goals:

Among the hundreds of projects funded by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund are: purchasing 70 miles of river frontage and nearly 25,000 acres along two of the nation’s top trout streams (the Au Sable and the Manistee); helping the City of St. Joseph acquire 22 acres of Lake Michigan shoreline for Silver Beach County Park; assisting Banks Township in Antrim County obtain more than 150 acres (including nearly a mile of frontage on Grand Traverse Bay); and, gaining 10,000 acres of undeveloped land in Mackinac County, including more than five miles of Lake Michigan frontage.

The Michigan Oil And Gas Association and its members are committed to enhancing all of Michigan’s natural resources – oil and gas reserves, wetlands and water, land and minerals. Our state’s thriving oil and gas industry provides tangible benefits so every Michigan resident and visitor can enjoy those natural resources that make the Great Lakes State so special.