ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPDATES

To date we have identified nearly 200 projects with a total estimated cost of over $12 million. The identification of priority sites is an ongoing process and we anticipate that these numbers will continue to increase as more information is gathered. Even more satisfying will be removing projects from the list once they are implemented.

HOW DOES HURON PINES SELECT A PROJECT?

Throughout the years Huron Pines has implemented 100’s of on-the-ground projects, whether it’s restoring an eroding stream bank, placing woody material in the river, replacing an inadequate culvert, or treating a patch of invasive species. These activities help to improve water quality, protect and improve both aquatic and terrestrial habitat, and overall makes Northeast Michigan a more desirable place. Though we have made great strides in improving our natural resources, Huron Pines still has a lot to do for years to come.

We are compiling a database for potential projects in our Northeast Michigan service area. The database will document the type of project, the estimated project cost, sediment loading calculations, acres impacted, severity and more.  Information for our priority database is gleaned from watershed plans, inventories and other surveys that have been conducted. The purpose of gathering this data is to select the highest priority sites and seek partnerships to implement projects. (Above: phragmites stand being treated by a volunteer.)

Data gathered through this process is used to guide the future work for Huron Pines. Though we are identifying specific sites for restoration, we are also identifying where there are gaps in information or if resource inventories need to be updated. (Below: an undersized culvert allowing excessive sediment input and restricting fish passage.)

Types of Priority Projects
• Road Stream Crossing
• Stream Restoration
• Large Woody Debris
• Dam removal
• Stormwater Management
• Invasive Species
• Greenbelt
• Forest and Wildlife Management
• Agriculture
• Off Road Vehicle
• Planning
• Inventory/Survey
• Monitoring

USING GIS TO LOCATE PRIORITY PROJECTS

Each project is connected to a corresponding point on a map using Geographic Information System software (GIS). This makes it easier to identify project locations. GIS can also be a useful decision making tool in the project prioritization process.

Huron Pines has records of almost every road stream crossing in Northeast Michigan. Many of these crossings are improperly placed and can act as fish passage barriers. Using GIS, these locations are mapped to help prioritize which projects will have the largest ecological impact. GIS can answer questions such as, ‘If this barrier were removed, how many miles of stream would be reconnected?’ This information, along with information collected on-site, helps us decide which projects should be at the top of our list.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Unfortunately, we can’t see every bit of our 4.2 million acres and must also rely on input from local resource professionals, landowners and visitors to help us fill the gaps. If you are aware of an erosion site, a small dam impeding fish passage (like the one pictured right), the presence of invasive species or other resource concerns not already identified, please contact Lisha Ramsdell, Program Director, for possible inclusion in the priority list.

In order for a project to be considered for the list, the following information must be included:

• Location of site-County, township, range, section number. If you have the GPS point please send that information as well.
• Photos
• Type of problem or resource concern
• Severity, Size and/or Density of Site
• Known history of site or any ongoing related project
• Willingness of yourself or the group you are representing to participate in the project (raising funds, volunteering, etc.)
• Your contact information

Information can be sent to lisha@huronpines.org

Prior to implementing a project it is evaluated by our staff and then reviewed by the Huron Pines Resource Advisory Group (RAG). The RAG is comprised of resource professionals with backgrounds in water quality, fish biology, forestry, wildlife management and land use planning. The group evaluates each project, offers suggestions to make it more viable and decides whether or not the project is adopted by Huron Pines. By identifying and initially ranking each project and review by the RAG helps ensure the most impactful projects are selected.