In 2006, the Big Sable River streambank inventory was updated and placed in electronic format. The new inventory is web-hosted (www.liaa.info/crabmp/) and available for resource managers as a tool to help prioritize streambank stabilization projects in need of restoration. The last severely eroding site identified in the inventory as a priority for future work was Site #21. BSWRC contacted the landowners whom were eager to work with the committee on restoration efforts.
The site is approximately 280 lineal feet by 16 feet in height with the potential to deliver an estimated 115.5 tons of sediments/year. Native trees and shrubs were planted along the slope of the bank to help establish a root system that will also help “hold” the bank in its natural form. This project was designed to reduce sedimentation into the Big Sable River, which will help enhance aquatic and wildlife habitat. Sedimentation is known as the largest non-point pollution source into Northwest Michigan’s cold-water natural resources.
Best Management Practices:
- streambank stabilization with fieldstone rip rap and whole tree revetments
- native plant revegetation
- stream channel enhancement
Project Benefits:
- Estimated 115.5 tons/yr reduction in sand loading to the river, benefiting many aquatic and terrestrial species and improving approximately 15 miles of downstream habitat.
- Promotion of erosion control work to help attract continued support of river restoration work
- Native riparian plantings improve habitat for wildlife
Partners involved:
Conservation Resource Alliance • Big Sable Watershed Restoration Committee • Mason County Fin and Feather Club • Michigan Department of Environmental Quality • Michigan DNR Fish Division
• Dow Chemical • Kalamazoo Valley Trout Unlimited
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