FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 15, 2015

Contact: Jennifer Kleitch, 989-732-3541, ext. 5031 or Keith Fisher, 989-275-5151, ext. 2031

Stoney Creek Flooding dam and dike maintenance scheduled

Segment of Michigan Shore to Shore Trail temporarily closed for duration of project

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today announced it will this fall conduct a wetland-enhancement project at the Stoney Creek Flooding State Wildlife Management Area, which is located in central Cheboygan County off Stoney Creek Road in the southwest portion of Waverly Township.

Expected to start late this week, the work will include a water drawdown of the pond and repair to the small dam and associated dike system, and will require a temporary trail closure. A segment of the north spur of the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail – a popular riding and hiking trail that runs through the area – will be closed to through traffic until the project is completed.

The dam was installed in 1952 by the Michigan Department of Conservation to create the flooding and enhance the appeal to wetland wildlife species, especially waterfowl. Ongoing and routine maintenance activities have, over the years, allowed the area to remain productive for wetland plants, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians.

The Department of Environmental Quality recently inspected the structure and recommended a few specific repairs to the dam and dike system, requiring a water drawdown. Once the structure repairs are completed, the water level will remain low until the following spring. This will allow plants to establish on the bottom lands and shorelines, while also protecting wildlife species that have burrowed into the banks for the winter.

“We hope to complete this project with as little disturbance as possible to fall recreation activities in the area,” said DNR wildlife biologist Jennifer Kleitch. “Our goal is to have this project completed by the Nov. 15 firearm deer season opener.”

The project will be paid for with funds generated through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses.

The flooding and surrounding state-managed land are popular areas for hunters, horseback riders, bird watchers and hikers. Postings on either end of the affected segment of the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail and at the Stoney Creek and Elk Hill equestrian camps will alert riders and other nonmotorized trail users that a portion of the trail in Cheboygan County is temporarily closed for this critical maintenance project.

To explore other trail opportunities in northern Michigan and throughout the state, visit the DNR website www.michigan.gov/dnrtrails.

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. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.