Berrien County has received more than $5.4 million from the MNRTF to fund the acquisition and development of Silver Beach, Galien River, and Love Creek County Parks, as well as $300,000 in 2014 recommended funding for improvements at the Rocky Gap beachfront property.

“The MNRTF was instrumental in the acquisition of Silver Beach County Park…with the enormous pressure of private acquisition and development of Lake Michigan beachfront property back in the 80’s, which still remains true today, it is difficult to imagine the city of St. Joseph without Silver Beach County Park. It affects our quality of life, economic prosperity, and is the backbone of our tourism business.”

– Michael C. Garey, Mayor, City of St. Joseph

“The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund has been instrumental in the acquisition and protection of some of our most unique natural areas here in Berrien County. Silver Beach and Galien River County Parks are both in public domain forever because of the MNRTF. Both these parks provide public accessibility to some of the most unique and special natural areas in our region. Silver Beach has uninhibited access to the St. Joseph River and south pier, and Galien River County Park provides incredible views of the Galien River valley from both the sixty-foot tall “Tree Canopy Walkway” and the marsh boardwalk. These parks are an important tool in economic development, environmental protection, outdoor education, employee recruitment and retention, and add to the character and high quality of life here in Berrien County.”