The first project in a new phase of work in the Betsie and Platte River watersheds kicks off this spring. Since 2008, CRA has completed over a dozen major projects in these watersheds including timber bridges, dam removals, wetland restoration and instream habitat work.
Located on the Little Betsie River and Nessen Road, the first site is the largest in this phase of work and on one of the most important tributaries to the Betsie River mainstem. Situated in the upper half of the wetland rich region, the project will reconnect eight miles of aquatic habitat and significantly reduce excess sediment from entering the river. The current 7.5 ft wide aging concrete structure will be replaced with a 19 ft timber bridge.
Next up will be road/stream crossing improvements at North Branch Platte River and Gudemoos Road, Woodcock Creek and Burnt Mill Road, Red Creek and Haze Road, as well as instream habitat work on Dair Creek and the Betsie River.
We’d like to thank the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Sustain Our Great Lakes program for investing in these often underfunded tributaries and keeping Northern Michigan on the map as aextraordinary water destination.