Michigan Historical Center to Host Author of New Book Detailing the Projects Made Possible Through the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
OutdoorHub 07.18.11
The Michigan Historical Center is hosting a presentation and book signing by Jack Westbrook, author of the new book,1976-2011 on Saturday, July 23. Westbrook will speak at 1:30 p.m. in the Forum on the Center’s first floor. The book signing will begin at 2:30 p.m.
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) was born of a unique alliance of government, environmental groups and the Michigan oil and gas industry. In 1976, Michigan became the first state in the nation to earmark state revenue generated from mineral activity—largely oil and gas—for the acquisition and improvement of environmentally sensitive and/or public recreation lands. It has had a positive impact on each of the state’s 83 counties, helping fund more than 1,600 public recreation facilities from Detroit to the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Westbrook, retired managing editor of Michigan Oil & Gas News magazine, tours the rail trails, parks and fishing piers funded by the MNRTF. Along the way, he offers a general history of the places where these projects have taken place, as well as their oil and gas activity.
This event is free and open to the public. While on site for the lecture and book signing, visitors are invited to browse the museum, including the special exhibit, Plowshares Into Swords.
The museum is open seven days a week. It is located inside the Michigan Library and Historical Center, 702 West Kalamazoo St., Lansing. The museum and visitor parking are on the north side of Kalamazoo Street, two blocks east of M. L. King Jr. Boulevard. Weekend parking is free. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/museum or call 517-373-3359.
The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its museum and archival programs help people discover, enjoy and find inspiration in their heritage. It includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 10 regional museums, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve, and the Archives of Michigan. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/michiganhistory.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
