“These projects will continue to inspire Great Lakes’ communities to be proactive about water quality, habitat protection and community vibrancy.”
-Lisha Ramsdell, Associate Director, Huron Pines
Gaylord, MI (August 2024)—Michigan’s lakes and rivers hold a special significance for both Huron Pines and the Walters Family Foundation. This shared appreciation has forged a partnership spanning over seven years and multiple grants – all dedicated to restoring and revitalizing our region’s precious natural environments. One of the key benefits of this long-standing partnership is a shared understanding of the impact of this important environmental work and the ability to uncover new opportunities together.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the Walters Family Foundation’s latest grant to Huron Pines. Over the next three years, this funding will support an array of projects, including 10 road and stream crossing improvements, the removal of a dam and two stormwater management initiatives in some of Michigan’s most under-funded rural regions.
“Because of the trust and the relationship we've built with the Walters family, we were able to bundle these aquatic connectivity projects with green infrastructure into one grant, which isn't something that funders are always willing to do,” says Lisha Ramsdell, Associate Director, Huron Pines. “The Walters' investment is worth its weight in gold because it allows us to do more, and it provides us with flexibility. With 13 distinct projects, we can strategically allocate resources where they’re needed most, which is immensely beneficial.”
Funding will support five road and stream crossing improvement projects that reconnect forty-four miles of cold-water habitat. It will also cover the cost of design and permitting for five additional sites. These river connectivity projects create open systems that are crucial for fish migration. “Providing that open, thermal refuge is really important, especially for species like brook trout,” says Ramsdell. “It also helps with climate resiliency. With more intense storm events expected as weather patterns change, connecting our rivers with new culverts reduces the risk of flooding.
Another project in the grant includes the removal of Sanback Dam in the town of Rose City. This dam dates back to the 1800’s and is deemed a high-hazard priority. Removing the dam will eliminate risks to water quality, fish habitats, human safety and downstream properties.
“For years, the dam has been deteriorating,” Ramsdell reflects. “The community is recognizing that it poses a liability, particularly with the risk of contaminated sediment.” Ramsdell says she is energized by the community’s evolving vision for the area, including plans for trails and a campground. “We’re not only preventing potential water issues,” she says, “But also witnessing the community uniting to enhance their environment.”
Meanwhile, in Alpena and Rogers City, communities eagerly anticipate progress on new stormwater management initiatives funded by the Walters Family Foundation grant. These efforts aim to address the detrimental effects of stormwater runoff on habitats, erosion, local economies and public safety. The projects are projected to remove 32,000 square feet of impermeable surfaces and manage more than one million gallons of stormwater annually.
“The communities of Alpena and Rogers City are undertaking these projects to safeguard water quality and community wellbeing,” Ramsdell says. “These initiatives will continue to inspire communities to champion water quality, habitat preservation and community vitality. I'm excited to see what kinds of projects unfold because of that enthusiasm.”
