Biological and physical habitat conditions of northwest Lower Peninsula streams in Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties were assessed by Michigan DEQ Surface Water Assessment Section staff in 2013. The primary objectives of the assessments were:
- Identify nonpoint sources (NPS) of water quality impairment.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of NPS projects.
- Assess the current status and condition of individual water bodies and determine if Michigan Water Quality Standards (WQS) are being met.
- Gather water quality data needed for future Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) development.
- Satisfy monitoring requests submitted by internal and external customers.
The 26 biological surveys performed in the region were located on the following streams: Tannery Creek and Bear River in Emmet County; Inwood Creek, South Branch Spring Brook, North Branch Boyne River, and Deer Creek in Charlevoix County; Jordan River, unnamed tributary to Cedar River, and Cedar River in Antrim County; Rapid River in Kalkaska County; Yuba Creek, Acme Creek, South Branch Boardman River, East Creek, unnamed tributary to Jaxson Creek, Boardman River, and Kids Creek in Grand Traverse County; and Northport Creek and Leo Creek in Leelanau County.