NEWS RELEASE
SUPERIOR WATERSHED PARTNERSHIP AND LAND CONSERVANCY
***************************
MARQUETTE — The Superior Watershed Partnership and Land Conservancy (SWP) in cooperation with Baraga County are pleased to announce that the Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund Board recently approved over $2.7 million in funding to Baraga County for the purchase and protection of 1184 acres along the Sturgeon River (Lake Superior Watershed) in Covington Township. This stunning forested parcel includes over 4 miles of river frontage on the Sturgeon River.
The land will be owned by Baraga County with the SWP assisting with management, monitoring, maintenance and trail development. The SWP and the Great Lakes Climate Corps (GLCC) will be working with Baraga County on planning several miles of hiking trails, kayak launches and environmental education kiosks. The Sturgeon River property is perfect for hiking, fishing, canoeing and simply enjoying the beauty of the wild north woods!
In addition, the acquisition will reduce habitat fragmentation by expanding and protecting wildlife corridors from development including critical habitat for numerous plant and animal species. The acquisition also protects water resources by maintaining the integrity of streams, creeks, and intermittent drainages that encompass the Sturgeon River watershed. Protecting the riparian area helps sustain water quality and the natural fishery through preservation of physical, chemical, and biological processes.
Protecting this property also protects Great Lakes water quality and indirectly benefits over 30 million people living downstream! It is anticipated that portions of the property will be open to the public by the summer of 2023 with the full parcel accessible by the summer of 2024.
For more information contact [email protected] or (906) 228-6095 ext.16
***************************
