Bear River

The Bear River, the largest tributary to Little Traverse Bay, originates from Walloon Lake and flows 12 miles in a northerly direction to its confluence with the Bay in Petoskey. Two streams, Haymarsh Creek and Spring Brook, flow into the Bear River as it passes through farmland and cedar swamp. The last mile of its length contains the steepest drop of any river in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Lake Street Dam in Petoskey divides two valuable fisheries. Upstream of the dam, the River supports a native brook trout fishery, while a salmon and steelhead fishery lies downstream.

The Bear River has played an important role in the Little Traverse Bay Watershed's history. The river once generated local wealth by providing fish and game, as well as transportation for people and logs, and power to grind grain and turn saws. Unfortunately, the Bear River was also used as a dumping ground for waste and polluted stormwater.

Threats to the Bear River continue to impact its water quality as well as that of the Little Traverse Bay Watershed. Shoreline erosion due to increased runoff from development presents the greatest challenge to the river. As a result, sedimentation and polluted runoff are deposited directly into the Bay. Although efforts are underway to "Heal the Bear," the Little Traverse Bay Watershed Protection Plan will bring far-reaching benefits to the river as well.

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