Ashmun Bay Property Protected

For many years, the city of Sault Ste. Marie leased the 50-acre Ashmun Bay property from Edison Sault Electric Company. The property was available to the public for use as a park, a boat launch site, and recreation area. However, a couple of years ago, the property became available for purchase, and its fate was uncertain.

Fortunately, with prompting from a citizen group known as Sustainable Community, the Conservancy was able to help the city of Sault Ste. Marie by preparing a successful application to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

Last year, the final paperwork cleared and $547,000 in funding was awarded to the city to purchase the property. Now, the property will permanently remain for public use, access, and enjoyment.

"This project is one more example of what a significant impact the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund has had on the protection of our state’s natural resources," remarked Executive Director Tom Bailey. "The Trust Fund granting program allows us to continue to partner with townships, cities, and other local units of government to protect their significant natural and recreational lands."