A resolution to urge the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Natural Resources Commission to declare the Houghton-Douglass Falls as the Houghton-Douglass Falls Veterans Scenic Site, a unit of McLain State Park.
Impact
The designation of Houghton-Douglass Falls as a veterans scenic site aims to honor military personnel, particularly focusing on those who have endured lasting challenges from their service. The area's acquisition by the DNR in 2018, made possible through a Natural Resources Trust Fund grant, underpins the intent to protect its natural beauty. The resolution advocates for the public reopening of the site as a recreational area, which could enhance the community's economic and environmental wellness.
Summary
House Resolution 232 urges the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Natural Resources Commission to designate the Houghton-Douglass Falls as the Houghton-Douglass Falls Veterans Scenic Site, which would be included in McLain State Park. Situated in northern Houghton County, this site is recognized as Michigan's tallest waterfall, plunging 110 feet into a picturesque gorge adorned with diverse flora. The resolution emphasizes the historical and cultural importance of the falls, which were named after Douglass Houghton, Michigan's first state geologist.
Contention
While the resolution does not present significant points of contention, it reflects ongoing conversations about the preservation of natural sites and the acknowledgment of veterans’ contributions. There may be implications regarding how this site will be managed in terms of safety and public accessibility, especially considering its previous closure due to overuse. The push for the site's designation as a state park may prompt discussions on balancing tourism, recreation, and conservation efforts moving forward.
A concurrent resolution to urge the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in coordination with the U.S. Department of the Interior and the federal government, to re-establish a viable and self-sustaining wolf population in the Lower Peninsula.
A resolution to urge the Department of Natural Resources to deny the Michigan National Guard’s request to expand the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center.
A resolution to urge the Department of Natural Resources to deny the Michigan National Guard’s request to expand the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center.
A resolution to commemorate Ronald Olson upon his retirement from his role as the Chief of Parks and Recreation at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Urges and requests the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Department of Natural Resources to study the use of water from natural and scenic rivers for certain uses
Natural resources: funding; Michigan natural resources trust fund recipients; modify to include state departments, counties, and road commissions. Amends secs. 1901 & 1903 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.1901 & 324.1903).
Appropriations: department of natural resources; Michigan natural resources trust fund; provide appropriations for fiscal year 2023-2024. Creates appropriation act.
House concurrent resolution celebrating the role of tourism in the Vermont economy and designating April 10, 2025 as Tourism Economy Day at the State House
House concurrent resolution celebrating the role of the manufacturing industry in the Vermont economy and designating April 2, 2025 as Manufacturing Day at the State House
Legislature: apportionment; redistricting of court of appeals; provide for. Amends secs. 301, 302 & 303d of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.301 et seq.); adds sec. 303e & repeals secs. 303a, 303b & 303c of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.303a et seq.).
Education: board members; state board of education; require members to be selected by each political party from regions. Amends sec. 282a of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.282a) & adds sec. 282b.