“We can all make a difference with green stormwater infrastructure. The challenge is shifting mindsets to make this the norm.” - Amy Nowakowski, Senior Project Manager

Since 2023, in response to a community visioning session led by Huron Pines, the City of Alpena has been installing Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) to better manage runoff and protect water quality across the city. Community members were able to provide feedback on a series of GSI project ideas and vote on their favorites; now these projects are coming to life. As part of this effort, two major stormwater projects were completed in fall 2025 at Bay View Park, transforming sections of turfgrass into native-plant landscapes that benefit water quality and the local ecosystem.

At this beloved park along the shore of Lake Huron’s Thunder Bay, a 6,000-square-foot pollinator garden has taken shape, replacing the traditional lawn and providing important habitat for pollinators and wildlife while serving as a community showpiece of native gardening. Nearby, a 1,000-square-foot rain garden was installed in a low area where rain and snowmelt often pools. Designed with layers of rock and soil, this rain garden captures and filters stormwater runoff with the help of deep-rooted native plants, reducing maintenance for Department of Public Works staff and catching pollutants before they can reach the lake.

Alpena joined the Lake Huron Forever initiative in 2023, committing to the protection of Lake Huron’s water quality by curbing stormwater runoff, protecting sensitive natural areas and inspiring community members to action.

Because Alpena draws its drinking water directly from Lake Huron, these projects play an important role in protecting public health and the environment. Similar efforts are also being incorporated into other sites throughout the city including Mich-e-ke-wis Park, the DDA building and the River Street parking lot as Alpena continues to integrate GSI into its long-term plans.

Huron Pines supports this work by guiding the City’s planning, assisting with garden design, selecting native plants and organizing volunteer planting efforts. Additional partners, including Michigan EGLE Coastal Management Program, NOAA’s National Coastal Zone Management Program, City of Alpena, Birdsfoot Native Nursery, Grayjay Strategies, and local residents are contributing to this project’s success.

Though construction of the gardens is complete, their ongoing maintenance will help ensure their continued success. Community members can support this effort by volunteering with maintenance and planting days or doing similar projects at home, helping to further protect water quality for Lake Huron.