Stony Creek Restoration: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC), Oceana County Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA) invite the public to a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the restoration of Stony Creek on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. The event will be held at Marshville Dam Park in Shelby, where a long-blocked section of Stony Creek is now free-flowing once again.
Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 3:00 – 5:00 PM (Speakers at 3:30, Ribbon Cutting at 4:00)
Location: Marshville Dam County Park: 6075 W Marshville Dam Rd, Shelby, MI 49455
Parking: Please carpool if possible. Parking will be available in the field directly across the street from Marshville Dam County Park.
The celebration marks the successful removal of the Marshville Dam and an undersized stream crossing on Marshville Dam Road, the restoration of natural stream flow, and the revitalization of critical in-stream and stream corridor habitat in Stony Creek. A universally accessible fishing platform and informative sign were also added, enhancing the site as a welcoming and educational community space.
This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between local communities, agencies, and nonprofit partners working together to protect and restore Michigan’s freshwater resources.
Speakers will begin at 3:30 PM, including:
- Garry McKeen – Opening remarks & project background
- John Wyns – Historical context of the site
- Erin Kuhn (WMSRDC) – Dam removal & stream crossing replacement overview
- Brian Majka (GEI Consultants) – Project design and construction details
- DJ Shook (CRA) – Stream corridor restoration summary
- Mark Tonello (Michigan DNR) – Wildlife and fisheries impact
The ribbon cutting will take place at approximately 4:00 PM.
Light refreshments will be served, including cookies and a variety of beverages.
This project represents a major investment in the future health of the Stony Creek watershed, enhancing habitat, improving fish passage, and contributing to the resilience of Michigan’s natural infrastructure.
All are welcome. Join us to celebrate this important milestone in restoring one of our region’s treasured streams.
For further information, please contact:
Tori Wolever
Engagement Specialist
Conservation Resource Alliance
(231) 974-2158/ tori@rivercare.org