Soil Erosion and Sediment Control on White River Tributaries in Newaygo County
Newaygo County, MI

Grantee: Newaygo Soil and Water Conservation District
Basin Program Funds: $9,970
Non-federal Funds: $19,683
Project Duration: 04/1995 - 09/1998
Status: complete

Problem Statement
Severely eroding sites at road stream crossings are depositing sediment into perennial tributaries of the White River. The Muskegon Chapter of Trout Unlimited has identified eight sites within the watershed where trout habitat is being impaired due to soil erosion.

Background
The goal of the soil erosion and sediment control project is to develop cost-effective erosion control solutions to stabilize severely eroding areas at road and stream intersections on tributaries of the White River.

It is proposed that 8 of 11 problem sites identified in Newaygo County will be corrected. All 8 sites along the tributaries of the White River are within the natural rivers system and are designated trout streams. The restoration of these sites will utilize biological methods to restore desirable riparian landscapes and will incorporate soil stabilization techniques with consideration for shade, habitat, and the welfare of site users. This project will implement erosion control solutions and develop standard drawings of the control solutions to assist in future efforts on similar problem sites.

Activities
The Newaygo Soil and Water Conservation District has experienced initial difficulties in implementing their eight streambank stabilization projects because of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality permitting process. The permit was received and work began in December 1997. In addition, the number of sites has been reduced from 8 to 4, due to changes in sites 1 through 4, and an increase in the cost of materials. The project is scheduled to be completed by September 1998.

Results
To date, several preliminary engineering phases and documentation efforts have been completed. These include numerous site inspections, site drawings, and photographic documentation as well as engaging in regular contact with the landowners and participating agencies.

Contact: Laurie Gracik, (616) 924-2420