For decades, the Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA) has restored rivers, protected wildlife habitats and ensured healthier Great Lakes. DTE Energy and the DTE Energy Foundation have been proud partners in this work for more than 20 years, with the Foundation investing over $1 million to support projects that keep water clean, remove outdated dams and reforest northern Michigan.
“In northern Michigan, we don’t have the big metro areas and corporate donors that larger cities can rely on,” said Suzie Knoll, Executive Director of the Conservation Resource Alliance. “Support from organizations like DTE make a big impact and help level the playing field for rural communities.”
Through partnerships like this, the CRA has been able to complete nearly 40 projects each year, protecting over 700 miles of streams and stewarding nearly 4 million acres in northern Michigan.
“Funding from The DTE Foundation has allowed us to finish projects that improve fishing, kayaking and recreation – things that are not just good for the environment, but for the local economy as well,” said Knoll.
DTE’s support extends beyond funding. The company’s employees join the CRA on the ground to plant trees and regularly participate in community events like their annual meeting that bring awareness to the CRA’s mission and purpose.
Learn more about how DTE partners with organizations across Michigan at www.dtefoundation.com.