Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Visitor Improvements Underway for Nature Sanctuary in Fenton
Fenton Community Fund Grant to Support Michigan Nature Association's Natural Area Plans
Fenton, Mich. - The Fenton Community Fund recently announced a $14,100 grant to the Michigan Nature Association (MNA) to improve visitor accessibility, safety, and ecological health this summer at the Dauner Martin Nature Sanctuary in Fenton.
MNA, a nonprofit organization, owns the 155-acre natural area located within the city limits of Fenton. Considered an important community asset to Fenton residents, it is also one of MNA's most popular sanctuaries.
"We are so grateful for this grant," said Rachel Maranto, MNA Regional Stewardship Organizer. "Not only will we be able to make much-needed improvements, the majority of the funds will create two paid summer internships with the goal of providing environmental leadership experience for aspiring young conservationists in the Greater Fenton area."
Under the supervision of MNA, the interns will care for the nature sanctuary throughout the summer and work to build volunteer capacity around the sanctuary. MNA will use the rest of the grant funds to install new trail signage, establish a native plant garden, and remove the sanctuary's invasive species in priority areas, according to Maranto.
MNA currently seeks applicants for the two paid internship positions, more information can be found at www.michigannature.org/menus/work-with-us.html.
The sanctuary improvement project is made possible by the Franklin D. Adams Fund which is advised by the Fenton Community Fund Advisory Committee. For more information, please visit www.cfgf.org.
Established in 1952, the Michigan Nature Association is a non-profit conservation organization committed to the protection and maintenance of special natural areas throughout the state. Through stewardship, MNA works to protect the rare and endangered plants and animals that reside in these areas, and promote a program of natural history and conservation education. MNA's members, donors and volunteers have built a remarkable network of over 175 nature sanctuaries. Stretching from the northern tip of the Upper Peninsula to the Indiana/Ohio border, it is the largest statewide network of natural areas established and maintained by a nonprofit organization in Michigan. For more information on MNA and current initiatives, visit www.michigannature.org.