1B - Menominee River RA - Management Plan Part 1.pdf

June 2017 Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Parks and Recreation Division

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Parks and Recreation

PUB-LF-105

Intentionally left blank

Approval

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan

The project was jointly directed by:

Deborah Jensen, Management Plan Administrator, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation Division, and

Jeff Prey, State Park Planner, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Parks and Recreation

Plan Approvals Michigan:

The Michigan plan approval applies to all lands owned and managed by the Michigan DNR. Approval of this plan also acknowledges support of the Wisconsin DNR management proposals.

Plan Approval Recommendations Michigan:

The following dates reference when the plans were presented for recommendation. In some instances, additional time was allotted for plan review following the presentation with subsequent approval received by Email.

PRD – SECTION CHIEFS: 01/11/2017

Date

DNR – RESOURCE MANAGEMENT BUREAU: 01/09/2017

Date

MSPAC – STEWARDSHIP SUBCOMMITTEE 01/25/2017

NRC – MICHIGAN STATE PARKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE: 02/09/2017

Plan Approvals Wisconsin:

The Wisconsin plan approval applies to all lands owned and managed by the Wisconsin DNR. Approval of this plan also acknowledges support of the Michigan DNR management proposals.

The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board approved this plan at their June 2017 meeting as per Chapter NR44.04 (3), Wis. Adm. Code.

This plan was prepared jointly with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Park and Recreation Division, as per Chapter NR44. 04 (13), Wis. Adm. Code.

RESOLUTION NO. 02-2017-01

MICHIGAN STATE PARKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE (MSPAC)

RESOLUTION TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE

“MENOMINEE RIVER STATE RECREATION AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN”

ADOPTED: February 09, 2017

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Parks and Recreation Division in partnership with the Wisconsin DNR, Bureau of Parks and Recreations has completed the Management Plan for Menominee River State Recreation Area; and

WHEREAS, the planning process reflects sensitivity to natural resource values, historic and cultural resource values, recreation and education opportunities, and is inclusive of all DNR programs and representative of eco-management; and

WHEREAS, the planning process was further inclusive of stakeholder, constituent, and public input; and

WHEREAS, the Management Plan represents sound guidance for future planning phases that will be consistent with the mission of the DNR and the Parks and Recreation Division, and reflective of the purpose and significance of Menominee River State Recreation Area; and

WHEREAS, the Management Plan is consistent with the recommendations of the Michigan State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Blue Ribbon Panel report submitted to Governor Rick Snyder; and

WHEREAS, the Management Plan has been reviewed and recommended for approval by the Parks and Recreation Division and the MSPAC Stewardship Subcommittee.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Michigan State Parks Advisory Committee recommends approval of the Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan; and

THERFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Michigan State Parks Advisory Committee further recommends that the DNR Director approve the Management Plan for Menominee River State Recreation Area;

Submitted by: Chris Graham, Chair, MSPAC Stewardship Subcommittee

Motioned by: No motion needed, support for resolution was approved in subcommittee Yeas:

Seconded by: Nays:

Abstained:

Absent:

This Resolution was adopted by the Michigan State Parks Advisory Committee at their regular meeting on February 09, 2017 as Resolution No. 02-2017-01

Acknowledgments

Wisconsin

Natural Resources Board

Terry Hilgenberg, Chair Gregory Kazmierski, Vice Chair

Julie Anderson, Secretary William Bruins Preston D. Cole

Dr. Frederick Prehn Gary Zimmer

Wisconsin DNR

Cathy Stepp, Secretary Kurt Thiede, Deputy Secretary

Sanjay Olson, FWP Division Administrator Ben Bergey, Parks and Recreation

Bureau Director

Michigan

NRC, State Parks Advisory Committee Commissioner Louise Klarr, Chair

Commissioner Christopher Tracy, Co-Chair Commissioner Christine Crumbaugh, Co-Chair

Tom Bailey Jim Bradley Julie Clark

Ann Conklin Mike Foote

Christopher Graham Jefferson Gray Jim Hendricks

Robert W. Hoffmeyer Michael McDonald

Mary Pitcher Charles Hoover

Michigan DNR

Keith Creagh, Director William O’Neill, Natural Resources Deputy

Ron Olson, Chief, Parks and Recreation Division

Acknowledgement The Planning Team thanks the many private citizens, local officials, and organizations who assisted in the creation of this plan by attending meetings and/or submitting written or verbal comments. It is apparent that the public greatly values Menominee

River State Recreation Area for its beautiful natural resources and recreational opportunities.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page i

Table of Contents Executive Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction and Planning Process

Plan Purpose

Core Values and Guiding Resources

Planning Process Overview

Public Participation

Chapter 2: Vision and Goals

Property Designation and Authority

Significance Statements

Property Goals

Chapter 3: Management, Development and Use of the Property

PIERS GORGE UNIT (344 existing property acres)

QUIVER FALLS UNIT (4,942 existing property acres)

PEMENE FALLS UNIT (2,388 existing property acres)

Chapter 4: Public Involvement Process

Primary Stakeholders

Methods of Public Contact and Involvement

Management Planning Publications

Community Involvement and Public Participation

Response to Public Comments after Public Review

Chapter 5: Alternatives and Their Environmental Impacts

Recreation Management Alternatives

Land Management Alternatives

Real Estate and Boundary Modification Alternatives

Chapter 6: Impacts of the Proposed Plan (Wisconsin)

Introduction

Impacts to Natural Resources

Impacts to Recreational Facilities and Opportunities

Impacts to Cultural Resources

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Socio-Economic Impacts

Economic Effects and their Significance

Fiscal Effects – State Government

Impacts of Boundary Adjustments

Cumulative Effects, Risk and Precedent

Chapter 7: Action Goals Plan (Michigan)

List of Tables

Table 1: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Michigan Piers Gorge Unit. 14 Table 2: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the Michigan Piers Gorge Unit Table 3: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Wisconsin Piers Gorge Unit.

Table 4: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the WI Piers Gorge Unit Table 5: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Michigan Quiver Falls Unit. 23 Table 6: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the Michigan Quiver Falls Unit Table 7: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Wisconsin Quiver Falls Unit.

Table 8: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the Wisconsin Quiver Falls Unit Table 9: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Michigan Pemene Falls Unit.

Table 10: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the Michigan Pemene Falls Unit Table 11: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Wisconsin Pemene Falls Unit Table 12: Project Boundary Acreage for the Wisconsin Pemene Falls Unit Table 13: Chronological Summary of Public Involvement Table 14: Overview of Wisconsin Real Estate Recommendations for the Menominee River State Recreation Area Table 15: Proposed Phasing for Wisconsin Facility Developments and Improvements

List of Appendices Appendix A – Property Analysis

Land Ownership Existing Recreation Facilities & Use Water Resources Vegetation & Natural Communities Wildlife Resources

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Habitat Needs & Capabilities Threatened, Endangered & Special Concern Species Geology and Mineral Resources Cultural Resources Structures Map A1 - Piers Gorge Unit Land Cover Types Map A2 - Quiver Falls Unit Land Cover Types Map A3 - Pemene Falls Unit Land Cover Types

Appendix B– Regional Analysis

Public Lands Regional Landscape Population and Basis for Local Economy Recreation Supply and Demand

Appendix C - Zone Descriptions

Appendix D – Allowable Vegetation Practices (Wisconsin)

Appendix E – Planning Team

Appendix F - Public Comments

Summary of Public Comment on Draft Plan Summary of Public Input Meetings, June 2014 Online Public Survey Results Summary of Public Input Workshop, September 2012

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 1

Executive Summary

The Menominee River State Recreation Area (MRSRA) encompasses 7,652 acres of land in Dickinson and Menominee Counties, Michigan, and Marinette County, Wisconsin. The Recreation Area was established in 2010 with the purpose of protecting the scenic values of the Menominee River and associated natural resources while providing opportunities for public access and recreation. Three management units make up the recreation area: Piers Gorge Unit in the north, Quiver Falls Unit, and Pemene Falls Unit in the south. Combined, these units feature 17 miles of undeveloped river corridor with both rocky gorges and wide open stretches that offer a destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, as well as hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing.

This Management Plan is a collaborative effort between both the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Michigan DNR. With public ownership on both sides of the river, this joint plan will help create a "one place, one feel" experience for visitors. The plan defines a long-range management strategy that will assist the Michigan Parks and Recreation Division (PRD) and the Wisconsin Bureau of Parks and Recreation (BPR) in meeting their responsibilities to protect and preserve the site’s natural and cultural resources and to provide access to land and water-based public recreation and education opportunities.

The objective of the plan is to bring together DNR staff from both states, stakeholders and the public into a process that defines the following for the Recreation Area:

• unique significance

• the future vision (property goals)

• future management, development and use

• management zones to guide management in specific areas

Management, Development and Use of Property

The Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan recommends upgrades to a number of recreational facilities while maintaining the “backcountry” experience that many associate with this area.

Piers Gorge Unit (344 existing acres) Piers Gorge is one of the most scenic and popular natural attractions in the Menominee River corridor. It contains some of the fastest-moving water in Michigan and Wisconsin, offering whitewater recreation opportunities, beautiful scenery, and good wildlife viewing. Recreation at the Piers Gorge Unit plays an important role in regional and local tourism. The limited

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 2 improvements proposed on both sides of the river are intended to keep the visual character of the waterfalls and surrounding landscape, while enhancing the visitor experience.

In Michigan, recreation management concentrates on providing improved access to the river and to the land overlooking the gorge, and provides improved site amenities to accommodate day use visitors, while maintaining the scenic beauty of the site. A project boundary adjustment of 2 acres is proposed. Natural resource protection and management is an important aspect of preserving the beauty and ecological balance of the Piers Gorge Unit. Management objectives vary for each zone, depending on the desired future condition, but will generally reflect natural processes and the preservation or management for natural communities.

In Wisconsin, limited improvements are proposed to increase access to the river corridor through a primitive hiking trail, while maintaining the visual character of the waterfalls and surrounding landscape. A boundary adjustment of 257 acres is proposed east and west of the current property. Natural resource management varies for each zone but will generally preserve and perpetuate existing natural community types while allowing or managing for the conversion of aspen or other early successional forest stands to longer-lived community types, such as mixed conifer-hardwood stands.

Quiver Falls Unit (4,942 existing acres) The Quiver Falls Unit is located approximately two miles downstream (southeast) of Piers Gorge.

The approximately ten miles of largely undeveloped river corridor provides uninterrupted flow from the Sturgeon Dam in the north to the class II-III rapids that make up Quiver Falls. Water-based recreation, such as boating and fishing, are traditionally the primary recreational uses.

The area is also used for primitive camping, hunting and scenic viewing. The limited improvements proposed on both sides of the river are intended to bring the existing uses in line with current land use rules and provide additional amenities to enhance the visitor experience, while protecting the wild and scenic qualities of the river corridor. This unit is divided into 3 sub-units: north, middle and south.

Michigan does not own any land in the northern section. The focus in the middle section is to provide minimal facilities for quiet, low density recreational uses. In the south, a higher level of activity is proposed, with existing trails being evaluated for motorized and non-motorized uses and a proposed rustic campground and river access points. Proposed project boundary modifications would result in a 95-acre net gain in land and would provide land consolidation and ease of management. Proposed natural resource management varies for each of the designated management zones, from limited management in the Primitive Zone to more active management to promote natural community types and desired wildlife species in the Recreation Management

– Natural Resources Zone.

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Wisconsin has limited state ownership in the north section of the Quiver Falls Unit. An expansion of the project boundary is proposed to incorporate the City of Norway, MI lands located within the State of Wisconsin to allow for additional recreation opportunities and river access. The continued management of regional snowmobile and ATV trail connections that utilize state lands and township roads and providing river access are primary recreation goals in this area.

The central section of the Quiver Falls Unit includes a large block of Wisconsin state land ownership. A number of recreation and access improvements are recommended to enhance river usage and provide connections to surrounding public lands. A 12-unit rustic campground is proposed to accommodate overnight use.

The southern section of the Wisconsin Quiver Falls Unit has traditionally seen a wider variety of activities and is zoned to allow for a higher level of recreation and visitor interaction.

Development of a second day use area and improvements at the Quiver Falls scenic overlook are proposed.

A total project boundary adjustment of approximately 903 acres is proposed to create a more consolidated and easier to manage unit, with defined points of access. Proposed natural resource management varies for each of the designated management zones and for specific areas of the Recreation Area. The Grand Island Complex (271 acres) is proposed for designation as a state natural area in Wisconsin.

Pemene Falls Unit (2,388 existing acres) The Pemene Falls Unit is the southern-most unit of the Menominee River State Recreation Area.

The scenic Pemene Falls, class III-IV rapids, offer spectacular views. The unit is minimally developed, with parking areas, river access sites, campsites (Wisconsin) and the Pemene Falls overlook area (Michigan). The limited improvements proposed on both sides of the river are intended to bring the existing uses in line with current land use rules and provide additional amenities to enhance the visitor experience, while protecting the wild and scenic qualities of the river corridor.

Specific recreation enhancements proposed in Michigan include improvements to the parking area and overlook at Pemene Falls, development of a 3 mile hiking trail along the river and a portage around the falls. Potential boundary adjustment includes incorporating the Sturgeon Bend Campground into the Recreation Area if desired by Faithorn Township. For natural resource management, staff will work closely with Forest Resources and Wildlife Division staff to ensure consistent management with the adjacent State Forest land for forest health and wildlife.

The Wisconsin Pemene Falls Unit is currently with an approved project boundary from a previous department master plan with that includes minor administrative adjustments. A small number of improvements are recommended to enhance public access and recreation through trail development, river access and improved primitive camping opportunities. Natural resource

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 4 management varies according to the zone designation from preservation to more active habitat management to represent, restore or perpetuate native plant and animal communities.

Public Involvement Process

Management planning for the Menominee River SRA included a comprehensive plan to involve the public in the process. Various methods were used to inform the public, government entities and stakeholders of the planning process and to promote involvement throughout the development of the management plan. A detailed description of the public involvement process is included in Chapter 4 of this plan.

The Menominee River corridor is the focus of the Recreation Area

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 5

Chapter 1: Introduction and Planning Process

The Menominee River State Recreation Area (MRSRA) encompasses 7,652 acres of land in both Michigan and Wisconsin, including a 17 mile stretch of undeveloped river corridor. This Management Plan is a collaborative effort between both the Wisconsin DNR and Michigan DNR.

With public ownership on both sides of the river, this joint plan will help create a "one place, one feel" experience. The combined effort gives both states a unified approach to developing a planning and management strategy that protects the resources while addressing recreation and tourism needs and opportunities that can have a positive impact on the local economy. For the public, the river and surrounding lands are the focus, not necessarily who owns the land. A unified approach will provide the benefits of cost effectiveness, efficiency in state government, and quality visitor experience.

The purpose of the acquisition, which was completed in 2011, is highlighted by the following values:

- Protection of the scenic values of the Menominee River and associated natural resources

- To provide opportunities for public recreation

- To build on existing state-owned river frontage

Plan Purpose

The Management Plan for Menominee River State Recreation Area defines a long-range management strategy that will assist the Michigan Parks and Recreation Division (PRD) and the Wisconsin Bureau of Parks and Recreation (BPR) in meeting their responsibilities to protect and preserve the site’s natural and cultural resources, and to provide access to land and water based public recreation and educational opportunities.

The Management Plan sets out a framework for protecting park resources while providing for meaningful visitor experiences. The long-range vision and management objectives for the park are derived from applicable legal directives, the purpose of the park, the park’s significant natural and cultural resources and its relationship to the local community and region.

The plan establishes 20-year Management Zones that provides specific guidance for natural resource management, recreation opportunities and level of development at MRSRA. Second, the plan provides management objectives that address the desired future condition within the site in terms of recreation management, motorized access management, proposed project boundary modification and natural resource management.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 6

“The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased, and not impaired, in value”

Theodore Roosevelt

For Wisconsin, the impacts of the proposed plan, including fiscal and staff impacts, are considered.

For Michigan, the plan also provides 10-year Action Goals that address specific actions to achieve the desired future condition within each area of the park.

Core Values and Guiding Resources

This management plan is guided by the core values that form the foundation of the Michigan and Wisconsin DNR. Core values are derived from the mission statements of the Department of Natural Resources and the Parks and Recreation Division/ Bureau, as well as priorities set by the Director.

Other considerations include specific legal mandates, including not only state law, but also the administrative tools and policies of the Departments.

MDNR Mission Statement The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations.

MPRD Mission Statement The Parks & Recreation Division’s mission is to acquire, protect, and preserve the natural and cultural features of Michigan’s unique resources, and to provide access to land and water based public recreation and educational opportunities.

Five Goals of the MDNR

1. Protect the natural and cultural resources

2. Ensure sustainable recreation use and enjoyment

3. Enable strong and natural resource-based economies

4. Improve and build strong relationships and partnerships

5. Foster effective business practices and good governance

WDNR Mission To protect and enhance our natural resources:

our air, land and water;

our wildlife, fish and forests and the ecosystems that sustain all life.

To provide a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

To ensure the right of all people to use and enjoy these resources in their work and leisure.

To work with people to understand each other's views and to carry out the public will.

And in this partnership consider the future and generations to follow.

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Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 7

MDNR Additional Guiding Resources In Michigan, there are a number of planning documents that provide recommendations for managing our park and recreation system and that were used as guiding references. These include:

• PRD Strategic Plan (2009-2019)

• Michigan State Parks & Outdoor Recreation Blue

Ribbon Panel Report (2012)

• Michigan Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor

Recreation Plan (2013-2017)

• Michigan Comprehensive Trail Plan (2013-2018)

• Managed Public Land Strategy (2013)

WDNR Additional Guiding Resources Wisconsin also has a number of planning documents that provide recommendations for managing the park and recreation system and they were used as guiding references. These include:

• Wisconsin State Park System 2015-2020 Strategic Plan

• Economic Impacts of the Wisconsin State Park System: Connections to Gateway

Communities (2013)

• Wisconsin Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (2011-2016)

• Managing the Heritage Resources of the Wisconsin State Park System (2010)

Planning Process Overview

The objective of the Management Plan is to bring together DNR staff from both states, stakeholders, and the public into a planning process that defines and clarifies the unique purpose, significance and future vision for Menominee River State Recreation Area. Those attributes are reinforced in the planning and management decisions that impact the park through the implementation of the management objectives for recreation and natural resources.

The process included many public informational meetings and planning workshops that were attended by private citizens, special interest groups, representatives of local governments, and representatives of other government agencies. The management planning process was divided into five phases: site inventory and analysis, development of project vision and goals, presentation of a draft concept, completion of a draft Management Plan document and Environmental Impact Statement, and DNR approval of the Management Plan.

In order for a plan to be effective, it must allow for some degree of flexibility to adapt to changes that cannot be predicted 10-20 years out. The plan will be reviewed by DNR staff every 5 years to ensure it is still meeting its intended purpose.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 8

Public Participation

Understanding the important role of the public in developing this plan, the planning team used a variety of methods to gather feedback and input from park users.

1) A public input workshop was held in September 2012 to introduce the joint planning process to stakeholders and members of the public and to solicit initial ideas for future management.

2) An online public input survey was developed to gather general information about primary interests in the park: how visitors currently use the park, what are the most significant aspects, and recommendations for preservation and recreation enhancements.

3) Draft planning concepts were presented for comment at two public meetings held in June 2014. The draft documents were also available on the project website for a period of 30 days.

4) Public input meetings were held in August 2016 to present the full draft plan for review and comment prior to plan approval.

A detailed account of the Public Involvement Process is provided in Chapter 4 of this plan. The comments received are recorded in Appendix F. The planning team considered all of the feedback as part of the planning process and refined the plan as appropriate.

Iron Mountain

Kingsford Norway

Stephenson

Niagara

Wausaukee

M e n o mi n e e R i v e r

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT

OF NATURAL RESOURCES

MRSRA-9524-MP-A dcb MAP A

Menominee River State Recreation Area

REGIONAL LOCATOR

PIERS GORGE UNIT

QUIVER FALLS UNIT

PEMENE FALLS UNIT

MRSRA Boundary (WI & MI) MRSRA Ownership (WI & MI) DNR Fee Title DNR Easement

WI County Forest MI State Forest State Boundary County Boundary

PIKE WILD

RIVER PIKE WILD

RIVER

PIKE WILD

RIVER

TOWN CORNER

WILDLIFE AREA

AMBERG

WILDLIFE AREA

MISCAUNO

WILDLIFE AREA

MENOMINEE RIVER

STATE RECREATION AREA

MENOMINEE RIVER

STATE RECREATION AREA

MENOMINEE RIVER

STATE RECREATION AREA

NORTH BRANCH

PEMEBONWON

FISHERY AREA

PINE - POPPLE

WILD RIVERS

SPREAD EAGLE BARRENS

NATURAL AREA

SPREAD EAGLE BARRENS

NATURAL AREA

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M A R I N E T T E C O U N T Y

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Lake Superior

Lake Michigan

W I S C O N S I N

M I C H I G A N

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT

OF NATURAL RESOURCES

12/04/2017 The data shown on this map have been obtained from various sources, and are of varying age, reliability and resolution. This map is not intended to be used for navigation, nor is this map an authoritative source of information about legal land ownership or public access. Users of this map should confirm the ownership of land through other means in order to avoid trespassing. No warranty, expressed or implied, is made regarding accuracy, applicability for a particular use, completeness, or legality of the information depicted on this map.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 9

Chapter 2: Vision and Goals

Property Designation and Authority

Wisconsin Statutory Authority: The authority to acquire and manage land within Menominee River State Recreation Area is described in Wisconsin State Statues 23.09, 23.11, 23.14, and 27.01. State Recreation Areas are administered by the Bureau of Parks and Recreation.

Michigan Statutory Authority: The authority to acquire and manage State Recreation Area land in Michigan is described in PA 451 of 1994, specifically Parts 504 and 741. State Recreation Areas are administered by the Parks and Recreation Division of the Department of Natural Resources.

Significance Statements

Significance statements capture the essence of the important aspects of the property to help to establish a unique identity. These statements demonstrate the distinctive features of Menominee River State Recreation Area to our states’ natural and cultural heritage, visitor enjoyment and impact on the region. Understanding the park’s significance helps managers make decisions that preserve those resources and values necessary to accomplish the park’s purpose.

Undeveloped Character:

The land represents over 7,000 areas of undeveloped upland forest and wetlands, offering a remote, natural land experience for park visitors.

Recreation:

The property has a history of providing a diverse range of recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, primitive camping and water-based recreation. The site provides rare white water opportunities, attracting both in and out of state visitors.

Wildlife:

The Menominee River corridor offers excellent opportunities for both game and nongame wildlife. Bald Eagles are commonly seen and are known to nest all along the river. The site also hosts osprey, common loons, songbirds, eastern timber wolves and sturgeon.

Historic and Cultural Significance:

The area has a rich history, including Native American tribal use, logging and iron mining, as well as hydroelectric production.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 10

Scenic/Natural Beauty:

The river corridor within the Recreation Area offers seventeen miles of undeveloped shoreline, with spectacular scenery encompassing dramatic rock bluffs and some of the fastest-moving water in Michigan and Wisconsin.

Community Connection:

The site demonstrates a unique partnership between the states of Michigan and Wisconsin. The local communities have a strong connection to the Menominee River State Recreation Area and the visitors it attracts help to support the local economy.

Property Goals

The following goals or desired future condition statements capture the important aspects of the park envisioned 15 to 20 years from now. They describe a vision for the successful use of the land and waters within Menominee River State Recreation Area and form the basis for the development of management objectives for the property.

Improve Access: River and land access provide recreational opportunities while connecting the property to the community.

Essential Recreation: This site provides a rare opportunity to experience exceptional river based recreation along with traditional passive outdoor recreation activities in a natural setting.

Resource Protection and Management: Natural communities are restored and managed sustainably to provide habitat for a diversity of native fish, wildlife and plants.

Education and Interpretation: The Menominee River State Recreation Area offers personal and non-personal interpretive and educational opportunities focusing upon natural and human history.

Scenic Resources: The “river experience” provides solitude and scenic beauty along with the roar of whitewater rapids and waterfalls.

Partnerships and Collaboration: The river corridor provides linkages to the community and surrounding forest lands while fostering productive partnerships.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 11

Chapter 3: Management, Development and Use of the Property

The Menominee River State Recreation Area was established in 2010; however, the Menominee River corridor has a long history of providing recreation opportunities for local residents and visitors in both Michigan and Wisconsin. Under WE Energies ownership, recreation use evolved over time and was generally not formalized. As the profile of the property is elevated to that of a State Recreation Area, a more defined approach is required to ensure public can continue to enjoy the land, while safeguarding the protection of the natural and cultural resources in the river corridor.

The Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan recommends upgrades to a number of recreational facilities while maintaining the “backcountry” experience that many associate with this area.

An important component of the future management is to designate Management Zones for each area of the park (see Maps C1 – C3). Each zone has defined characteristics and management objectives. Incorporated in the individual zone descriptions is direct guidance as to how to manage the area for natural resources, recreation opportunities and development. In addition, historic and cultural resources, educational opportunities, visitor experience, and management focus, are considered. Each of the zones used in this Management Plan are described in Appendix C.

For Wisconsin, this management plan presents specific natural resource management strategies for the recreation area. For Michigan, while the management plan addresses some general natural resource goals, a separate Stewardship Plan will be developed to identify targets for conservation and related natural resource goals and management strategies. This plan will be developed by the Michigan PRD Stewardship Unit in consultation with Wildlife, Forestry and other resource divisions.

For planning purposes, the Menominee River State Recreation Area has been divided into three units: Piers Gorge, Quiver Falls and Pemene Falls. The objectives for recreation management, motorized access management, natural resource management and proposed project boundary modification for each unit are described below for both Michigan and Wisconsin. Maps illustrating the Existing and Proposed Recreation Developments, Proposed Land Management Classification, and Proposed Project Boundary Modification follow the description for each unit.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 12

PIERS GORGE UNIT (344 existing property acres)

Piers Gorge is one of the most scenic and popular natural attractions in the Menominee River corridor. It contains some of the fastest-moving water in Michigan and Wisconsin, offering whitewater recreation opportunities, beautiful scenery, and good wildlife viewing. Recreation at the Piers Gorge Unit plays an important role in regional and local tourism. The limited improvements proposed on both sides of the river are intended to keep the visual character of the waterfalls and surrounding landscape, while enhancing the visitor experience.

Pier 3, Piers Gorge

Michigan (145 acres)

The Piers Gorge Unit of the Menominee River State Recreation Area includes 145 acres and has been divided into four Land Management Classification Zones:

Scenic Resource Management Primitive/ Natural Management Recreation Management – Backcountry Recreation Management – Natural Resources

Recreation Management

The level of recreational development and management focus varies in each zone in accordance with the land management classifications defined in Appendix C. Specific management objectives for the Piers Gorge Unit as a whole are described below.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 13

Designated Trails An existing trail provides pedestrian access for viewing the gorge. This trail will be designated as a hiking trail and shown on the official State Recreation Area map.

Management Objectives

• Provide 0.4 mile moderate hiking trail from the parking lot to pier #3

• Provide 0.9 mile primitive hiking trail from pier #3 to pier #4

• Provide vista overlooks at piers #2 and #3, in keeping with the scenic values of the site

• Make accessibility improvements for viewing the gorge

• Consider additional primitive foot trail development in the future to form a loop trail

River Access Management Objectives

• Formalize the existing carry-in/carry-out river access site at pier #4

• Formalize the existing carry-in/carry-out river access site above pier #3 and below pier #2

• Work with rafting companies to allow them to install and maintain a river safety box containing emergency equipment

• Provide boating access site (launch ramp) within the proposed project boundary

Day Use Facilities Management Objectives

• Improve and expand parking area to accommodate 20 vehicles and bus turn-around

• Provide information station/ site locator

• Provide interpretive signage relating to geology, natural resources and history of the

Menominee River and gorge

• Develop a day-use picnic area

• Establish an emergency access route to pier 3 (restricted/ vehicular)

Overnight Facilities The unit does not currently support overnight accommodations. The City of Norway has expressed an interest in working cooperatively with the Michigan DNR to explore rustic camping opportunities on a 4-acre parcel owned by the City, east of the Piers Gorge site.

Menominee River State Recreation Area Management Plan - June 2017 Page 14

Table 1: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Michigan Piers Gorge Unit.

Facility Existing Proposed Total

Designated Trail Miles Moderate hiking trail Primitive hiking trail

1.3 undesignated

0.4 0.9 designated

0.4 0.9

River Access Carry-in/carry-out access Motorized river access

3 informal

3 formalized

Day Use Facilities Parking (# vehicles)

Information Station Interpretive signage Picnic area Contact Station Vault Toilet

8 /bus turn-around

20 /bus turn-around

Motorized Access Management

This unit has motorized access to the parking lot via a Township road. Motorized access to the remainder of the property will be restricted due to topographic limitations and sensitive resources. A motorized emergency access (not open to public use) is proposed to address safety concerns. Motorized river access via a launch ramp is proposed as part of the boundary adjustment.

Natural Resource Management

Natural resource protection and management is an important aspect of preserving the beauty and ecological balance of the Piers Gorge Unit. Management objectives vary for each zone, depending on the desired future condition. Vegetation management practices for all zones will be outlined in a Stewardship Plan for the property.

Scenic Resource Management (40 acres) The Scenic Resource Management Zone includes land extending from the edge of the river to the top of the bluff. The primary focus of this zone is to protect, preserve and enhance the scenic viewscapes of the gorge, while providing safe access for park visitors.

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The natural resources in this zone may be modified slightly to support visitor use and viewing, but tolerance for natural resource impacts is low. The zone will reflect natural processes, with vegetative management only allowed to restore and maintain natural ecological structure and processes, or to enhance the viewscapes.

Management objectives:

• Protect habitat to the visual horizon from the Menominee River

• Selective, sensitive removal of vegetation to maintain views of the gorge

• Minimize impacts to aesthetics from a river-view perspective

• Minimize impacts due to off-trail use

Primitive/ Natural Management (12 acres) The Primitive/ Natural Management Zone includes a cedar swamp area north of the existing parking lot and access road. Only low impact development or recreation activities will be allowed in this area and will be limited due to the wet nature of the land.

Native species and natural processes take precedence over visitor accommodation.

Vegetative management will only be allowed to restore and maintain natural ecological structure and processes.

Management objectives:

• Control or eliminate invasive species

• Preserve and perpetuate existing natural community types

Recreation Management – Backcountry (76 acres) Most of the wooded hillside extending from the top of the bluff to the northern park boundary has been zoned Recreation Management – Backcountry. The primary focus of this zone is to provide low levels of recreation (non-motorized), while protecting the natural character of the zone.

This zone will reflect natural processes, with vegetative management only allowed to restore and maintain natural ecological structure and processes.

Management objectives:

• Control or eliminate invasive species

• Preserve and perpetuate existing natural community types while allowing or managing for the conversion of aspen to longer-lived community types, such as upland hardwood stands

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Recreation Management – Natural Resources (17 acres)

Approximately 17 acres at the east end of the Piers Gorge Unit have been designated as Recreation Management – Natural Resources. This includes the existing parking area and other land capable of supporting moderate levels of recreation and development in a natural setting.

Natural resources will be managed or modified to support visitor activities and maintain aesthetically appealing landscape, but are protected to the degree possible and appear natural.

Management objectives:

• Manage vegetation to facilitate recreational use and maintain an aesthetically appealing landscape

Proposed Project Boundary Modification

A Project Boundary is a geographic area in which the DNR has an interest in acquiring property that supports the mission of the DNR on a willing buyer/seller basis. A project boundary adjustment of approximately 2 acres is proposed east of the Piers Gorge Unit and is shown on Map D1. This area was selected because of its ability to provide additional recreational values for the property and the region. Areas within the expanded boundary would be considered for purchase, cooperative agreement, lease or easement.

The primary objectives of the proposed boundary expansion are:

• To protect the Menominee River

• To provide additional public space for recreational uses, including motorized river access, parking and picnicking

• To provide a buffer to adjacent land uses where public access is currently of concern

The Proposed Project Boundary for the Piers Gorge Unit would encompass approximately 147 acres. These proposed boundary changes are summarized in the table below.

Table 2: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the Michigan Piers Gorge Unit.

Current Ownership Proposed Project

Boundary Adjustment Proposed

Acquisition Goal Adjustment 145 acres 2 acres 147 acres

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In addition, the City of Norway owns a 4-acre parcel of riverfront property downstream of Piers Gorge, but not contiguous with the existing state ownership. The DNR will explore options to integrate development of this property in line with the management objectives for Piers Gorge.

Wisconsin (177 acres)

The Piers Gorge Unit of the Menominee River State Recreation Area has been divided into four Land Management Classification Zones:

Scenic Resource Management Habitat Management Native/ Ecological Community Management

Recreation Management – Backcountry

Recreation at the Piers Gorge Unit plays an important role in regional and local tourism. The limited improvements are intended to keep the visual character of the waterfalls and surrounding landscape.

A limited number of designated trails will be constructed. The phrase "designated trails" refers to trails that are designed, maintained, and limited to specific uses and are shown on the official state recreation area map.

Management Objectives

• Provide and maintain up to 3.5 miles of primitive hiking trails from the parking lot and along the river if all lands are acquired.

An existing primitive trail is present along the river’s edge. Modest improvements will be made to enhance sustainability and provide improved access.

Day Use Facilities Day use facilities will be limited to two small parking lots and locator signage.

Management Objectives

• Maintain existing three vehicle gravel parking lots

• Provide locator and management signage

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Table 3: Summary of Existing and Proposed Recreation Facilities for the Wisconsin Piers Gorge Unit.

Designated Trail Miles Primitive hiking trail

0.3

3. 25

3.55

Parking (# vehicles) Locator and Management Signage

This unit has no designated roads as topographic limitations and sensitive resources are present.

The three vehicle parking lots will be maintained for pedestrian access.

There are natural resource management opportunities on the recreation area, including the Piers Gorge Unit, that may be limited elsewhere within the landscape. Management within the different zones would maintain or enhance opportunities for older-aged forest while providing other opportunities for maintaining younger-aged forests and other management activities elsewhere. Active management and succession, natural disturbance, and other ecological processes will change composition, structure, and function in the different management zones.

Habitat Management (31 acres) This classification is focused around the power line corridor that bisects this unit and proposes a mixture of land cover types.

Management objectives:

• Conifer plantations will be managed using started silviculture rotation until trees have reached potential for old growth appearance, values and characteristics. At that point, manage conifer plantations to provide a more random, natural appearance.

• Afforest open fields with northern hardwood species similar to those growing in the Native/Ecological Community management zone to establish a larger block of forest for area-sensitive species such as forest interior birds.

• Manage aspen and similar stands to provide younger successional stages for species using such habitat.

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Native/Ecological Community Management (45 acres) This classification parallels the river upon the steep slopes and offers a unique opportunity for ecological restoration / preservation.

Management objectives:

• Preserve and perpetuate existing natural community types while allowing or managing for the conversion of aspen or other early successional forest stands to longer-lived community types, such as mixed conifer-hardwood stands.

• Using extended rotations, manage for older-aged forest to:

o Provide habitat for animals and plants requiring older forests o Provide additional buffering for the forest and seeps in the Primitive/Natural

Management zone

• Provide High Conservation Value Forest for forest certification.

Scenic Resources Management (6 acres) This classification is along the river’s edge to protect the scenic and visual characteristics of the river way.

Management objectives:

• Protect habitat in 200 feet parallel to the ordinary high water mark of the Menominee River or to the visual horizon from the river, whichever is greatest.

• There is no active natural resource management. Unplanned management from catastrophic natural events may be needed and will be consistent with the goals and objectives of the property.

Recreation Management – Backcountry (95 acres) This is the largest management classification within this unit. Limited recreation developments will work in conjunction to preserve and perpetuate existing natural communities.

Management objectives:

• Protect the Menominee River

• Control or eliminate invasive species, especially European marsh thistle (Cirsium palustre), in the seeps

• Preserve and perpetuate existing natural community types while allowing or managing for the conversion of aspen or other early successional forest stands to longer-lived community types, such as mixed conifer-hardwood stands.

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A boundary adjustment of 257 acres is proposed to east and west of the current property unit and is shown on Map D1. This area was selected because of its ability to provide additional ecological and social values for the property and the region. Areas within the expanded boundary would be considered for a range of protection options including purchase, cooperative agreements and conservation easements. The primary objectives of the proposed boundary expansion are:

• To protect the Menominee River

• To increase forest block sizes to better accommodate area-sensitive wildlife species

• To connect state recreation lands to the City of Niagara, WI.

• To provide additional public space for recreational trail uses and hunting

• To provide a buffer to land uses that would diminish habitat, management, or visitor experience

If all lands were purchased within the expanded property boundary, the Piers Gorge Unit would encompass approximately 434 acres. These proposed boundary changes are summarized in the following table.

Table 4: Project Boundary Acreage Goals for the WI Piers Gorge Unit.

Proposed Project Boundary

Adjustment Proposed Acquisition Goal

Adjustment 177 acres 257 acres 434 acres

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