Say no to Proposal 1

Proposal 1 is a very complicated Constitutional amendment. The confusing ballot language seems to be intentionally designed to elicit a “yes” vote. It doesn’t even hint at its primary result: it will reduce funding to protect Michigan’s forests, wetlands, parks and wildlife habitat.

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund was placed into the Constitution in order to protect it from diversions and to ensure that its primary purpose remained to protect land. We should not undo those protections in order to divert more money into recreational development.

The Trust Fund’s priority should remain to acquire land. That is the best way to benefit Michigan’s residents and wildlife, by providing perpetual benefits for generations to come.

The Michigan Land Conservancy recommends a “No” vote on Proposal 1. Readers are encouraged to visit www.MichiganProposal1.com for further information.

Jack Smiley

President Michigan Land Conservancy