The Michigan Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) newest harbor of refuge will be the first public harbor in the state to offer boaters the option of purchasing a 5 percent biodiesel marine fuel this summer. The program is part of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division (PRD) Green Initiatives Committee policy to research, recommend and monitor environmentally friendly products and management practices.

"This is a very important first for Michigan and Wisconsin boaters," said Chris Cope, who manages the harbor located midway between Menominee and Escanaba in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. "I'm confident that once boaters learn they have this option, they are going to start asking for additional locations to obtain biodiesel marine fuel throughout the Great Lakes."

The committee is using biodiesel blends of B20 and B5 in 26 state parks, recreation areas and field offices through the Green Initiatives program.

The PRD Green Initiatives Committee has partnered with an NBB member, the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (MSPC), to help educate outdoor enthusiasts about the use of bio-based products in state parks and harbors. In addition to educational and promotional materials, MSPC has provided a $10,000 grant to cover any cost difference of purchasing soy-based bio-products.

"Our state parks, recreation areas, harbors and boating access sites protect and preserve our state's greatest natural treasures," said Ron Olson, Parks and Recreation Division Chief. "It's important that we are leaders in the use of green products such as biodiesel and other soy bio-products."