LANSING, MI (AP)-- Michigan is receiving a $1 million federal grant to help conserve Great Lakes wetlands.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the grant Wednesday. It's among more than $21 million being distributed to 25 projects in coastal and Great Lakes states to protect, restore or improve wetlands and upland habitat.
Agency Director Dan Ashe says coastal wetlands are among the world's most productive ecosystems. They provide feeding and breeding areas for waterfowl and migratory birds, including endangered species. But thousands of acres are lost to development each year.
The Michigan project will acquire and protect four privately owned parcels in Baraga County. They total 1,374 acres and include nearly a mile of Lake Superior shoreline. The area is important for migratory birds, wolves, bears and bobcats.