This is a comprehensive restoration of a degraded watershed draining directly to the great lakes

Degradation is in the form of stream channelization, wetland fill, and abandonment of native channels. Despite these offenses to natural order, the great lakes brook trout conservation portfolio identifies this watershed as a stronghold for brook trout, and anglers from across the region target this creek for migratory runs of pacific salmonids as well as resident trout. As a major component of this project, the restoration aligns with recommendations of the portfolio to restore the stronghold. Prior conservation efforts and commitments protecting water quality, and a newly invigorated conservation presence in the watershed make way for this significant brook trout and watershed habitat renewal opportunity.CRA will collaborate with partners to coordinate construction using experienced local contractors. Channel RE-meandering will be designed and implemented using natural channel design principles. Instream wood structures will be implemented using local materials when possible and with methods that minimize disturbance to streambanks, floodplain, and riparian wetlands. The project team plans to create 275 linear feet of new brook trout habitat by RE-meandering two sections of creek, restore floodplain connectivity to 420 feet of creek via large woody debris cross vein structures, enhance over 3,300 feet of instream habitat via large woody debris installations, and restore 77 acres of degraded wetland via native plantings. The project team, having recently completed a watershed-wide road stream crossing inventory, is working with local transportation authorities to plan the implementation of crossing improvements where needed. Additional near-term (5-10 years) goals for mitchell creek watershed restoration and protection include over 20 miles of habitat connected directly to lake michigan, 2 miles of 3RD order tributary created by rewatering an abandoned channel running through a nature preserve and state park campground, 100 acres of critical habitat protected from development, and the establishment of over 3,000 linear feet of riparian forest buffer.