$1.7M in conservation grants to improve water quality, habitat resilience in southeast Michigan
Summary
The projects selected for funding will provide critical habitat for wildlife such as monarch butterflies and migratory birds, while also creating and enhancing public access.Addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation is critical to Kresges mission, said Yeou-Rong Jih, program officer for Kresges Environment Program. These investments will enhance the quality and connectivity of habitat and make it more accessible for people and increase community resilience by creating and improving green infrastructure, said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF.Leveraging Great Lakes Restoration Initiative dollars through the Southeast Michigan Resilience Fund exemplifies the strength of public-private partnerships, said Chris Korleski, director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys Great Lakes National Program Office. We will continue to invest in southeast Michigan communities, especially historically disadvantaged communities, delivering on-the-ground projects where they make a difference.The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is proud to team up with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to support improved resiliency and stormwater capture in Southeast Michigan, said JJ Tighe, Director, Parks & Trails Initiative. This partnership is a great example of how collaboration between public and private partners can advance innovative solutions to address the many challenges posed by climate change.The projects supported by these grants will: Plant more than 60,300 trees for increased stormwater storage and habitat Help restore the quality and connectivity of the regions unique habitats Improve quality of life by increasing public access to natural areas and parks through five new access pointsWe are honored to support these amazing organizations through an effective and collaborative funding effort, said Dr. Neil Hawkins, president of the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation. St. Suzanne Cody Rouge Community Resource Center, to support a network of churches in northwest Detroit to maintain existing bioretention practices, install new green stormwater infrastructure, and provide training programs.Since 2018, the Southeast Michigan Resilience Fund has awarded 34 grants totaling more than $7.7 million, leveraging an additional $10.6 million in matching contributions to generate a total conservation investment of more than $18.3 million.For additional information on the grants awarded, please click here, and to learn more about the Southeast Michigan Resilience Fund, please visit nfwf.org/semichigan.