Restoration Projects

Restoration Remedies Program
A technical service of the Watershed Council

Northern Michigan's lakes, streams and wetlands are precious natural resources. Their protection is vital in preserving the 'Up North' character that is so special. One of the most important ways you can protect your lake or stream is to control erosion and sedimentation of your shoreline or streambank. Erosion and sedimentation can have a serious impact on water quality, wildlife habitat, and property values.

An effective method referred to as "biotechnical erosion control" provides the most cost-effective, environmentally friendly and aesthetically appealing alternative to controlling accelerated shoreline erosion. The Watershed Council can develop restoration designs based on this method, as well as apply for the required state and local permits and coordinate the installation of the project.

If you are concerned about the condition of your property's shoreline, streambank or wetland, the Watershed Council offers a variety of services through our Restoration Remedies Program. Below are some of our featured restorations. For more information about the Restoration Remedies Program, contact Jennifer Gelb at (231) 347-1181 or e-mail her at  jen@watershedcouncil.org.

Restoration Remedies Program - Featured Project #1

The Evangeline Township Park on Lake Charlevoix,

Glenwood Beach Drive

Shannon McMaster, Boyne City Assistant Planner/Zoning Administrator

Restoration Remedies Project - Featured Project #2

Pigeon River

Streambank Restoration

BEFORE

Approximately 35 linear feet
on the Pigeon River slumped likely
as a result of high water levels
in early spring of 2008.

Mullett Lake Preservation Society (MAPS)

Shoreline and Streambank Erosion Control

The Watershed Council can provide different levels of contract services for shoreline and streambank restoration needs. The first step is to complete our Shoreline, Streambank and Wetland Questionnaire. After reviewing your questionnaire, we will contact you to discuss your options. This may include scheduling a site assessment where Watershed Council staff will visit your shoreline or streambank property, document the current conditions, and recommend courses of action. In some cases, a restoration plan or design is recommended to curb the progression of erosion and sedimentation, and "restore" the shoreline or streambank to its former condition. An effective method referred to as "biotechnical erosion control" provides the most cost-effective, environmentally friendly and aesthetically appealing alternative to controlling accelerated shoreline erosion. The Watershed Council can develop restoration designs based on this method, as well as apply for the required state and local permits and coordinate the installation of the project.

Greenbelt and Habitat Enhancement

Regardless of whether or not your shoreline or streambank is experiencing erosion, the Watershed Council can help you restore the riparian buffer by providing greenbelt design and habitat enhancement services. Designs incorporate aesthetics and wildlife habitat, all while accommodating your shoreline or streambank needs. Native plants are emphasized due to their effectiveness at stabilizing shorelines and streambanks, their habitat value, suitability to local conditions, and their natural "fit" in the landscape.

Stormwater Runoff Prevention

Help prevent stormwater runoff! Where does rain or water from snow go? Lawns and gardens absorb some of it, but water can't soak into driveways, sidewalks, rooftops, and other hard surfaces (also called impervious surfaces). When stormwater runoff flows over roads, sidewalks, lawns, and gardens, it picks up substances like dirt, fertilizers, oil, salt, and bacteria. Additional pollution comes from nutrients used in fertilizers applied to lawns and gardens, as well as pet waste, and sediments from soil particles that are washed away from bare spots in lawns and gardens, roadways, and other areas of exposed soils. Stormwater can also contain other pollutants such as toxins and heavy metals. Most stormwater runoff washes into nearby water bodies carrying these pollutants from the places where we live and work into lakes and streams. To learn more about stormwater and what you can do to prevent it, click here to download a copy of our brochure, Clean Water is Everyone's Business. (Please note this brochure's file size is 3MB. If you have a dial-up connection this download may take several minutes.) 

Did you know?

Watershed Council members receive a 10% discount off Restoration Remedies services. Support Tip of the Mitt Watershed by becoming a member today and start enjoy the benefits of membership.