Fulsher

MARQUETTE — The Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority has the opportunity to almost 200 acres for its famous namesake trail.

Carol Fulsher, IOHRA administrator, said the organization is applying for a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant to purchase approximately 176 acres of land that connect to the Iron Ore Heritage Trail in Marquette and Negaunee townships.

The property has been privately owned for 80 years, and the owners are willing to sell and provide a 25% land value match to the grant application for acquisition.

“The property is undeveloped and has been used for recreation for the family that owns it,” Fulsher said in an email. “Marquette and Negaunee townships are both enthusiastic about the possible sale since it will provide recreation lands in the middle of an area fast developing with housing.”

The property, she said, would offer trail development alongside the Iron Ore Heritage Trail for snowshoeing, hiking, single-track mountain bike trails and fat tire bike trails instead of on the IOHT, which is groomed for snowmobiles in the winter.

Maps can be found at www.ironoreheritage.com/news.

The grant is due on April 1.

Fulsher said the IOHRA will hold a public meeting via Zoom at 4:30 p.m. March 24 where the topic will be discussed. To attend the meeting, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84716760068; Meeting ID: 847 1676 0068; and Passcode: 709237.

Christie Mastric can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 250. Her email address is cbleck@miningjournal.net.