Summary of CleanUp from Sunday July 24 2011

The cleanup of the Shiawassee River on Sunday July 24 went really well and all had a great time.
The river was in far worse shape than anticipated.
Volunteer workers went from log jam to log jam all day.
They started at Bird Road,  managed to get to Bruce Allen's house on the river,
a distance around 1/2 way to Duffield Road on the river.

You can see photos of the people and the cleanup at the Keepers of the Shiawassee facebook page,

http://www.facebook.com/groups/111552015554058?closeTheater=1.

Maggie fed the helpers really well afterward at her house, where all relaxed and talked after a long day.

Many, many, thanks to all the people from Headwaters Trails and Keepers of the Shiawassee
who participated plus new participants who found us on the web.
This project is not possible without all the volunteer help received.

Another cleanup is scheduled for Sunday August 7, 2011 at 9am,
planning to meet at Bird Road and the river again.
If the rest of the river is a bad as this section, hopefully making it Duffield Road or beyond is possible.
The groups do not have a place to meet yet afterward to eat and relax for this event
---If you live near there and are willing to offer a deck,patio,backyard ,
perhaps hosting some sort of a potluck late afternoon evening, it would be appreciated.

Headwaterstrails Inc and Keepers of the Shiawassee are on Facebook - take a look

Pictures from Keepers of the Shiawassee River Cleanup 7/24/11

A huge number of supporters came out and cleared woody debris

Check out pictures by clicking on the link below :

Keepers of the Shiawassee River Clean-up 7/24/11

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River Cleanup Sunday July 24, 2011 Argentine Township

SUBJECT: River Cleanup Sunday July 24, 2011

Don't forget that we are having the Shiawassee River cleanup
Sunday July 24, 2011, starting at 9am at the intersection of
the river and Bird Road in Argentine Township. 

http://bit.ly/BirdStart

 We have trash to pickup, plus trees to saw and anchor to the bank to
protect the banks and create fish habitat.
Chuck Julian is bringing 4 chain saws, a bunch of cables, a cooler full of drinks.

We are hoping to "get-er-done" and go all the way to the Byron mill pond.

Afterward, Maggie Yerman has graciously offered
to feed people at her house. All help is welcome and appreciated .
This will be a big effort. Plan to work, rain or shine.

Boat hits and severely injures kayaker in Michigan

 Boat hits, severely injures kayaker in Michigan

 http://www.heraldpalladium.com/articles/2011/07/18/local_news/5704565.txt

 
Herald Palladium > Local News > Boat hits, severely injures kayaker

Tri-County Times > Archives > Living > Kayaking

Tri-County Times > Archives > Living > Kayaking

Schultz Outfitters: The Shiawassee's BACK!

Established in 2003, Schultz Outfitters is Southeastern Michigan's
only full-time, four-season fly-fishing guide service.
 
Schultz Outfitters: The Shiawassee's BACK!

Email	mike@schultzoutfitters.com
Website	http://www.schultzoutfitters.com http://www.schultzoutfitters.blogspot.com

Tri-County Times - Fenton Shiawassee Clean-Up

People cleaned up trash and debris along 6 miles of the river in Fenton

http://www.tctimes.com/articles/2011/07/01/news/local/doc4e0e264b37b6e941698399.txt

Fenton Approves Not-to-Exceed $10,000 for Mill Pond Weed Harvesting - Fenton, MI Patch

Fenton Approves Not-to-Exceed $10,000 for Mill Pond Weed Harvesting - Fenton, MI Patch

Friends of Shiawassee director resigns - The Argus-Press:

Friends of Shiawassee director resigns - The Argus-Press:

Friends of Shiawassee to study dam - The Argus-Press:

Friends of Shiawassee to study dam - The Argus-Press:

Kayaking the Shiawassee | This Chapter

A fresh new blogger on the scene - complete with her own video's and comments 

Kayaking the Shiawassee | This Chapter

Now you can see the Shiawassee River from a different perspective than just mine .

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Pushing the trail north

	Keepers of the Shiawassee River, Michigan
	Saturday, June 18 Linden/Argentine River Cleanup Meet 8:00 Argentine Twp Hall for free pancake breakfast and to get assignments   Time Saturday, June 18 · 8:00am - 11:00am Location Argentine fire hall for breakfast Register at Argentine Twp. 810-735-5050 or Linden City 735-7980 Variety of jobs for all ages: Join teams in Linden or with Hope Lutheran @ Hogan Rd  or Bird Rd working up river or McCaslin Lake Rd or working down river to Bird Rd. Clean launch area roadways River walkers trim overhanging branches, haul out tires, trash, etc. Flat bottom boats and/or canoes for hauling out trash appreciated Please bring your own tools if you have them such as chainsaws, loppers, handsaws and trimmers

WRCA: Clearinghouse for Dam Removal Information

WRCA: Clearinghouse for Dam Removal Information

Shiatown dam info  all in one place for easy access for all

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A Perfect Day for a Paddle - Fenton, MI Patch

A Perfect Day for a Paddle - Fenton, MI Patch

Oakland County has 5 Rivers , ony 1 race canceled

Shiawassee River race had weak attendance - bad press

Perhaps this article jinxed the attendance numbers :

BY TAMMY STABLES BATTAGLIA  --- DETROIT FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER
- scared people from ALL RIVERS in Oakland county - that's sad !

"""Lingering effects of excessive rain have cancelled an annual Oakland County canoe and kayak race. ""
"""Fast and high water in the Clinton River forced the cancellation of the third annual Paddlepalooza,
scheduled for Saturday in Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills. ""


The annual Shiawassee River race on June 5th, Sunday went off without a hitch still drawing
about 75 participants - BUT we had hoped for 200 + paddlers on such a nice day.

Oakland County needs to do a better job promoting the Shiawassee River

Willi G. Gutmann
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June 5, 2011 Shiawassee River

Shiawassee River Paddle Event on June 5, 2011

Enter the Race for competition
OR -- join us for the Pleasure Paddle

Register


Canoes available for rental thru Heavners Livery
Shuttle transport all day long until 6pm

June 5th, 2011 - Join over 100 local paddlers for a day of fun

http://www.goracego.com/Search/event.aspx?event=6343d4bf-da49-4313-b270-b939310a1ce2.aspx

Shiawassee River Paddle Event on June 5, 2011

Water Trail Map


PUT-IN
WaterWorks Park
602 South Broad St, Holly, MI 48442-1674

TAKE-OUT
Strom Park
299 South East Street, Fenton,MI
near the East Street Bridge.

Start : WaterWorks Park in Holly, Michigan
End : Strom Park in Fenton, Michigan
Distance : 7 scenic miles of twists and turns

Schedule :
10:30 am : On-site registration WaterWorks Park
11:30 am : Introductory Ceremony
11:45 am : Experienced Canoeists Start
12:15 pm : Novice/Youth Canoeists Start
12:45 pm : Kayak/ Single person canoeists Start
***1:15 pm : Leisure/fun paddle Start *****
6:00 pm : Final river sweep completed

Canoes available for rental thru Heavners Livery
Shuttle transport all day long until 6pm

Questions ?
Call Sue Julian, 248-634-3513
or email sjulian @ provide dot net

Call Doug Lanyk 248-634-4551
or email dslanyk @ comcast dot net

Call Willi Gutmann 586-215-6387
or e-mail Willi_H2O @ Yahoo dot Com

Flood stage water on Shiawassee River

2011.05.19 Shiawassee River Flooding from John Vanderlaan on Vimeo.

After almost a week of rain, starting with the 2011 Durand Railroad Days, the Shiawassee River exceeded flood stage.

A few things mentioned about safe kayaking during high water - listen carefully
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Shiawassee River at flood stage in Owosso Michigan

The Shiawassee River is at flood stage , over it's banks,  and pouring into streets

Map of Shiawassee River for canoe or kayak

New Link
Shiawassee River Heritage Water Trail
http://www.umflint.edu/resources/pdf/outreach/shiawasse-river-trail-map.pdf
Map of the river starting in Oakland County

Helpers needed EARLY on June 5th for event

June 5 Race Day tasks
PLEASE consider helping us
It is an ALL volunteer effort

We are now in our 7th Year as an Annual Event on the Shiawassee River

If you would like to help a few hours,  a half day,  a full day - all help is welcome

Contact one of us :
Sue Julian 248-388-1313
Maggie Yerman 810-922-8627
Doug Lanyk 248-303-9495
Willi Gutmann 586-215-6387


Saturday--move supplies to WaterWorks building

SUNDAY
8am -- set up
traffic signs, set up tables and tents, hang banner, set up kayak corral,
place buoy, set up start line, connect sound system, begin registration

9am -- volunteer check-in for remaining volunteers
work/job orientation; final river check team departs

9:30am -- greeting public starts (they insist on coming early!)
info table up and running; box lunch orders taken, parking attendant working,
Heavner Canoe rental on site

10:00am -- registration starts
set up awards display, time results board, site for photographing winners

11:00am -- downstream set up
Strom Park timers and greeters; safety spotters get situated

11:30am -- Introduction to the Race;

11:45am -- Experienced teams start with lap around Millpond
12:15pm -- Novice/youth teams start with lap around Millpond
12:45pm -- Single/kayak paddlers start on Shiawassee River
1:00 pm -- Timing Results start;
Heavner is on site in Strom Park for first returns;
awards and photos as people return

1:15 to 2:00pm -- Pleasure paddlers depart; photographer downstream

2:00pm -- Sweep boat leaves
Timing results and awards continue; box lunches distributed
Additional help needed with return transportation

5:00pm -- Pizza for volunteers at WaterWorks Park

5:30pm -- Final clean-up

With a little luck we should be done with it all by 6pm

Shiawassee River and Wildwood Cemetery in Chesaning

The Shiawassee River is eroding the banks, causing landslides near a Chesaning cemetary.
People are concerned the cemetary is at risk of sliding into the river.

Action becomes critical as Shiawassee River threatens Wildwood Cemetery | tricountycitizen.mihomepaper.com | The Tri County Citizen

http://bit.ly/Cemetary
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Linden sign dedication on May 16 for Shiawassee Heritage Trail

Linden Sign Dedication on May 16 Marks First Full Moon Paddle of the Season


What: Linden Shiawassee River Sign Dedication & Full Moon Paddle
Where: Linden Mill Pond Beach, Linden Michigan
When: Monday, May 16, 2011,

5:00pm Sign Dedication,
6:30pm Full Moon Paddle


View Linden Mill Pond in a larger map

Join the City of Linden and Keepers of the Shiawassee May 16 at the Linden Mill Pond for the Shiawassee River sign dedication and full moon paddle. Friends and fellow paddlers will meet at the Mill Pond in Linden at 5pm to dedicate the new interpretive sign. Light refreshments will be served. Linden is the latest location to have signage installed along the Shiawassee River following a sign installation at Bush Park back in April. The mill pond is currently used as a kayak/canoe launch for paddlers who seek to paddle upstream to Tupper and Ponemah lakes.

The sign dedication ceremony will be followed by the first full moon paddle of the season, organized by Keepers of the Shiawassee. Interested paddlers are asked to meet at 6:30 p.m. at the mill pond for an hour long paddle up to Lake Ponemah and back to the mill pond. The group will end the evening at the Linden Hotel for dinner. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent from Fairbanks Canoes and Kayaks, LLC 810-287-9618 who will be at the event.

The sign was illustrated by Gayle Vandercook of Lapeer and was made possible through a generous grant from the Florence Michelson Fund and the Adams Fund to Benefit the Fenton Natural Environment, both associated Funds of the Fenton Community Fund. Since 2009, the Fenton Community Fund has lent their support to the River by advising a grant to University Outreach at the University of Michigan - Flint to create interpretive signage, a brochure, and develop a canoe launch. “Linden has supported the development of the Shiawassee River for years through their annual cleanups and festivals along the river and fishing tournaments. Developing the River into a recreation destination for paddlers seemed like a logical next step to boost local tourism and strengthen community identity” said Sara McDonnell, program coordinator at UM-Flint.

The Shiawassee River, the liquid ribbon that flows through Holly, Fenton, Linden and Argentine all the way to the Saginaw River and eventually to Saginaw Bay, is the focus of the Keepers of the Shiawassee. Keepers of the Shiawassee is a volunteer group that is developing the Shiawassee river as a paddling trail by organizing cleanups, installation of signage, and canoe/kayak launches. “The Shiawassee River is one of our greatest resources and has the opportunity to provide recreation and economic development to our region” stated Maggie Yerman an advocate for the Shiawassee River and key organizer of Keepers of the Shiawassee.
Keepers of the Shiawassee has grown out of efforts started by Headwaters Trails, Inc in Holly that created a paddling trail along the river from Holly to Fenton, and who organize an annual canoe race. Though local river cleanups occur in Fenton, Linden and Argentine, there has not been an organized effort to link volunteers in Genesee County to develop and promote the river. The Keepers of the Shiawassee hope to establish the water trail with safe and legal launch and landing sites and facilities every 4 to 6 river miles for novice and recreational paddlers.

Find Keepers of the Shiawassee on Facebook or Visit www.keepersoftheshiawassee.com for upcoming river events and to download the Shiawassee River Trail Guide.

CONTACTS
Sara McDonnell
University Outreach, UM-Flint
(810) 424-5489
smcdonne@umflint.edu

Maggie Yerman
Keepers of the Shiawassee
810-735-9570

Dave Lossing
Mayor, City of Linden
(810) 515-4359

CLICK on signs to see in more detail

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Michigan laws regarding dam safety

The DNR - Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the safety of dams.

The department has the power to regulate the construction, reconstruction, repair,
alteration, removal, abandonment, and operation of dams.

The department may in an emergency take any necessary actions, including repair,
drawdown, breaching or cessation of operation to protect public safety,
natural resources and the public trust.

Michigan laws regarding dam safety



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USGS topography map of the Shiatown Dam and surrounding land
( click on the picture with mouse for a larger view)

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The Shiatown Dam is 19 feet high - the water drops 19ft from reservoir to spillway
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Wastewater overflow dumped from treatment plant in Durand, Michigan

Sewage was discharged by the Durand Wastewater Treatment Plant
http://bit.ly/DurandH2O into the Holly Drain north of the plant near Durand Road.
Approximately 30,000 to 40,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater was discharged.
The Holly Drain flows into the Shiawassee River near Vernon.

For further information, contact Steve Mince, director of public works for the city of Durand at 288-3113,
Gary Burk, director of Public Utilities for the city of Owosso at 725-0550
or Larry Johnson, director of environmental health, Shiawassee County Health Department at 743-2390.

The Shiawassee River was above its 7-foot flood stage beginning early Thursday morning - week of April 29, 2011
The river crested Thursday at 7.54 feet and was still at 7.15 feet at 1 a.m. today.

Paddle safe everyone

Three Mile Creek and Holly Drain system in Shiawassee County
( click on picture for an enlarged view )

Great Lakes Fishery Commission and Shiatown Dam

Back in January I quickly whipped up a pre-prosal funding document
for the removal of the Shiatown Dam and entered it into the official system.
The good folks at the GLFC took a look at it but shot down the funding proposal.
I see it as mission accomplished - it's on peoples radar as needing attention.

Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC)
Board of Technical Experts
Fishery Research Program

Removal of the Shiatown Dam issues

a.) Dams are used by the commission and its agents to control Sea Lamprey Populations
Removal of a dam must include an analysis of the effect on sea lamprey production.

b.) Pursue funding programs such as the Great Lakes Fishery and Ecosystem Restoration Program (GLFER).
This program provides funds for fishery restoration activities, including dam removal.
Contact Carl Platz at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for information about how to apply for GLFER.

c.) Next year’s pre-proposals will be due in mid-January 2011.

d.) The board seeks distinct deliverables and methods to address objectives of the proposal.

Charles Krueger - ckrueger@glfc.org
along with :
Sarah (Zahn) Seegert
Fishery Research Program Associate
Great Lakes Fishery Commission
2100 Commonwealth Blvd. Suite 100
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
e-mail: sseegert@glfc.org
Phone: 734-662-3209 x11

The pre-proposal I wrote in a hour obviously needs a full blown project management approach to be viable for funding

RATIONALE: Currently the dam is owned by the Michigan Land Bank Authority via tax default of a private owner.
The dam provides no flood control and in fact has been the site of 5 deaths over the past 20 years.
It is ill suited to the production of hydroelectric revenue as 4 prior owners defaulted on taxes due to lack of revenue from power generation.
The Shiawassee Watershed is a warm water environment conducive to many species of fish and mussels.
Enabling the river to run unobstructed will benefit the ecology of the region.
Blue Infrastructure definitely has a economic benefits.
People choose to live and work in areas where paddlesports recreation is readily available.
People are willing to pay a premium for locations with high quality green & blue infrastructure
i.e. recreational areas have significant impact on property values.
High quality natural and environmental amenities attract commercial development , jobs, and people.
They help support the quality of life of local residents and foster community attachment.
Talent tends to migrate to places with significant green & blue infrastructure.

OBJECTIVES:
1.) Remove the Shiatown Dam on the Shiawassee River
2.) Enable a natural free-flow state conducive to many species of fish and mussels.
3.) Increase usage and profitability to the region with eco-tourism via fishing and paddlesports
http://shiawassee-river.blogspot.com/2009/12/paddle-sports-grow-larger.html

METHODS:
1.) Work with all governmental agencies in the systematic removal of debris currently on site
2.) Obtain competitive bids regarding sedimentation testing and revealing usability of sediment
3.) Collaborate with independent engineering firms regarding various dismantling strategies
4.) File proper permit applications and have work done in stages to minimize sediment flow downstream.

RELEVANCE TO PROGRAM:
Human Dimension of Fishery Management
Ownership of a dam is a legal liability to the State of Michigan and an economic liability.
The human dimension of dams has evolved from a necessity for civilization to one of hindering the ecology of the region.
Fishery management, as a key stakeholder, wins from dam removal as it allows nature to work efficiently for fish survivability.
Saginaw Bay is basically choked with far too many dams on the rivers that dump into it.
Improving fish passage is a sure shot to increase natural reproduction.
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Canoe and Kayak launches in Bush Park, Fenton, Michigan

Canoe and Kayak launches available in 2011

Look for new canoe and kayak launches to be installed in Bush Park along the Shiawassee River

A $3,579 grant from REI along with funding from the Fenton Rotary Club made it possible

Bush Park is one of Fenton’s largest parks at 5.5 acres.

The park has two entrances;
a.) East end of Jefferson Street behind St. John’s Catholic Church
b.) N. Leroy Street at Fifth Street.

The park is always open and has no entrance fees.
The Shiawassee River runs through the park.

http://bit.ly/BushPark

http://bit.ly/USGSmap


View Bush Park in Fenton,MI in a larger map



http://www.cityoffenton.org/parks/bush.asp

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People now can rent a canoe or kayak along with shuttle service
for the Shiawassee River in Holly, Fenton, Linden area

Fairbanks Canoes & Kayaks
Linden, Michigan
(810) 287-9618‎

Email‎: fairbankscanoesandkayaks AT gmail.com‎

Area served‎: Linden, MI, and locations within 25 miles‎

http://bit.ly/FairbanksCanoe

Payment Accepted‎: Check‎‎, Traveler's Check‎‎, Cash‎

Spotting / shuttling service for those with their own canoe or kayak
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Saginaw County dikes threaten Shiawassee River

Erosion of dikes along a 4 mile section of drain in Albee Township threatens the river.
The drainage district faces a potential lawsuit if someone got hurt and the erosion is an environmental hazard.
Sediment is swept into the drain and eventually into the Shiawassee River and out to the Saginaw Bay.

Eroding Dikes

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http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index.ssf/2011/04/a_creek_runs_through_it_future.html


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Paddling safely in groups

I'm a firm believer that sharing is caring --- i.e. sharing info with others shows a level of concern

There are some people who falsely believe posting about kayak safety
drives people away from the sport - "we just want to paddle leave us alone" - syndrome.
Posting , talking, discussing ,  teaching safety is not the culprit - it those who refuse to heed advice that put others at risk.

That's a damn shame because those ""un-safety concious folk"" paddle with others in groups.
A recent article by Tim Dyer concerning group management calls it ""Paddling with Lemons""

Nobody wants a "Lemon". Definitely not an automobile that's a lemon, or an appliance that's a lemon.
Smart Paddling involves minimizing risk to yourself, your equipment, and those you paddle with.

Are you in possession of a "Lemon" when paddling ?
- do you truly know the skills of your paddling partner ?
- suppose you don't know the skills of multiple paddlers in the group ?
- are there some in the group who don't wear a pfd, refuse to wear a pfd ?
- are there some who expect others to save them instead of being able to save themselves ?

Maybe you won't have an accident - but the likelihood is strong, especially when the odds are stacked up.
Lemons sour the mix, so eliminate the ones ruining the experience, and have an enjoyable safe paddle.
It's your life, protect it.

Remember :

Don’t go in to rescue somebody - if you can't stay on top yourself.  
No pretending, no hero stuff. You are no good to anyone if you’re upside down.
Get those still on top - in a position where they’ll stay on top - have them raft up besides one another.

Springtime fallen tree cleanup on Shiawassee River

Steve Hoffman and Doug Lanyk set out on Sunday with 75 degree F air temps

and 45 degree high water to clear the Shiawassee River  between Holly and Fenton.

Another 8 dead fall tree blockages were removed by chainsaws and they worked
until the machines ran out of gas making a full day of it all.

Springtime is always a rough start with deadfall from winter and spring storms.
Once the big stuff is cleared each year, the river is quite navigable along the 7 mile trail.


View Holly - Shiawassee River in a larger map

Thanks to to the hard work of Headwaterstrails Inc. 

the river will soon be ready for paddlesport activities.

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Shiawassee River in Oakland County

People often forget that Oakland County plays a key role in numerous river water systems

People can drown with PFD on

People kayaking or canoeing can still drown even though they are wearing a life jacket



1. Lifejacket not right size/type for conditions, old, worn out, broken, torn or worn improperly.

2. Vessel capsized and wearer trapped inside

3. Entrapment due to rocks or debris or severe water hydraulics

4. Wearer drowned from wave splash (mouth immersions) before rescue

5. Wearer sustained other injury which prevented keeping face out of water or injury restricted airway.

6. Wearer became unconscious and was not wearing a self‐righting life jacket model.

7. Failing of self‐righting life jackets.

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Proper kayak paddling

Perhaps we can all learn a bit from this slow motion clip
a.) use the legs a lot
b.) rotate the torso of the body
c.) lean forward using abdominal muscles

Michigan waterways and rapid development

An interesting article on developing "rapids" for Michigan paddlesports 

Rapid Development - Hour Detroit - March 2011 - Detroit, MI

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2011 Shiawassee River race and pleasure paddle

 Shiawassee River Paddle Event on June 5, 2011

Enter the Race for competition
OR --  join us for the Pleasure Paddle

Canoes available for rental thru Heavners Livery
Shuttle transport all day long until 6pm

June 5th, 2011 - Join over 100 local paddlers for a day of fun

Water Trail Map
www.umflint.edu/outreach/assets/shiawasse-river-trail-map.pdf

PUT-IN
WaterWorks Park
602 South Broad St, Holly, MI 48442-1674

TAKE-OUT
Strom Park
299 South East Street, Fenton,MI
near the East Street Bridge.

Start : WaterWorks Park in Holly, Michigan
End : Strom Park in Fenton, Michigan
Distance : 7 scenic miles of twists and turns

Schedule :
10:30 am : On-site registration WaterWorks Park
11:30 am : Introductory Ceremony
11:45 am : Experienced Canoeists Start
12:15 pm : Novice/Youth Canoeists Start
12:45 pm : Kayak/ Single person canoeists Start
***1:15 pm : Leisure/fun paddle Start *****
6:00 pm : Final river sweep completed

Canoes available for rental thru Heavners Livery
Shuttle transport all day long until 6pm

Questions ?
Call Sue Julian, 248-634-3513
or email sjulian @ provide dot net

Call Doug Lanyk 248-634-4551
or email dslanyk @ comcast dot net

Call Willi Gutmann 586-215-6387
or e-mail Willi_H2O @ Yahoo dot Com

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Trail maintenance on the Shiawassee River headwaters

Doug Lanyk and Steve Hoffman made it out today March 16th, 2011  for a paddle upon the Shiawassee River
They launched from Waterworks Park in Holly with high water levels barely making it thru the tubes.
Chainsaws were used to clear up deadfall from the winter wind storms and progress was made
up towards the Fish Lake Road takeout.
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Why cotton absorbs lots of water

For many paddling trips in Michigan you'll want to avoid cotton
- it stays wet , chilling the body, causing hypothermia quickly

Appalachian Mountain Club's Equipped: Why Does Cotton Absorb So Much Water?
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Great Lakes levels expected to drop

Looks like another rough year for local water levels in the various watersheds for 2011
- we just did not not get enough winter precipitation

Great Lakes levels expected to drop | The Times Herald | thetimesherald.com
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2011 Shiawassee river events, cleanup , race, biathalon

Shiawassee River Trail cleanup

Time    
Sunday, May 15, 2011 · 12:30pm - 5:30pm
Location    
Waterworks Park, Holly MI
602 South Broad St, Holly, MI 48442-1674
    
Bring canoes, cold water work gear, gloves, boots, chainsaw, and a big smile.
We have a lot of downfall from the winter to clear out.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shiawassee River Paddle Event

Time    
Sunday, June 5, 2011 · 10:30am - 5:30pm

Location    
-WaterWorks Park -
602 South Broad St, Holly, MI 48442-1674

We will be having 3 racing classes and a Pleasure Paddle

Additional Info:
Call Sue Julian, 248-634-3513
or email sjulian @ provide dot net
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Biathalon - short run and paddle

Time    
Sunday, June 26, 2011 · 12:30pm - 3:30pm

Location    
Downtown Holly, MI

TBD - looking like a 3 to 5 K run followed by a 3 K kayak paddle.
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Stay in touch via Facebook - Headwaters Trails Inc. 

Headwaters Trails Inc. 501 (c) (3)

Promotes the creation of land and water trails in North West Oakland County Michigan.

Headwaters Trails, Inc.
P.O. Box 33
Holly, MI 48442-0033 
 

Sue Julian, President: 248-634-3513
Doug Lanyk, Vice-President: 248-634-4551

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Navigable creeks, streams, rivers, waterways and the law

In regards to legal navigability of a waterway, for the public :

- they merely have to be used; to be considered navigable.

By court definition: ""a capacity for meeting the needs and necessities of the people""

Historical commercial uses like floating logs downstream during the lumbering era helps of course

The public has rights in navigable water.

Any water which in its natural state, is capable of, and has been used, for the purposes:

a.) commerce

b.) travel

c.) trade

is considered a navigable waterway by the court systems in a large number of cases.

The floating of logs during the lumbering days was held to be an act of commerce.

It also applies to the movement of animal hides for the fur trade via canoe or kayak.

Travel of people, food, supplies, etc. both upstream or downstream counts as well.

While the log floatation test was the old yardstick

by which many "navigability" claims were measured;

-it is "how" modern waterways best serve the public (as historical intent of law)

that allows recreational usage to be considered in the determination of navigability.

The capacity for beneficial public service is paramount towards being deemed navigable.

Courts adopted a rule of "capacity for use to meet public necessity" as the true test.

Entitlement to paddle upon any given waterway involves the "capability of sustaining travel".

Waterways are public paths, expected to be open to travel and other uses.

This public expectation is still valid today in a modern society.

Sidenote:

My advice is to avoid confrontation with homeowners by merely saying

"sorry, we'll be gone momentarily - we meant no harm or disrespect -have a nice day"

Yelling at each other over rights, entitlement, etc. is simply non-productive and stressful.

Do not engage, simply keep moving and minimize the time spent at that location.

Quiet Water Symposium March 5 2011

Saturday March 5, 2011 at the Quiet Water Symposium on the campus of Michigan State Universty was a success.
A very, very busy day with pretty much non-stop traffic at the HeadWatersTrails booth educating, explaining
and passing out brochures concerning the Shiawassee Water Water trail.

Willi G. Gutmann

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Lake Associations Oakland Genesee

Please CLICK on images below for larger view:

Bennett Lake Association and Lobdell Lake: ( Hoisington & Woodland Lakes )
www.lobdellbennettlake.com
webguy@lobdellbennettlake.com
For general information about the Association, please mail;
Lobdell - Bennett Lake Association
P.O. Box 152
Linden, MI 48451

Cranberry Creek Association:
Robert Rechul
7049 Raspberry Ct.
Fenton, Michigan 48430
517-545-7359

Faussett Lake Association:
Nancy Gregory
4300 Faussett Lake Rd.
Howell, MI 48855
517-546-2141

Hidden Lake Association:
8719 Hidden Lake Rd.
Howell, MI 48855
Phyllis Grannan, Secretary
517-548-2504

Indian Lake Association
Dan Prince (DNR)
2400 Laurel Oak Dr #128
Howell, MI 48855

Katrine Hills Lake Association:
[Bennett Lake Channel]
Denise Booher
11245 Katrine Drive
Fenton, Michigan 48430
810-735-1648
cell: 810-240-9252

Lake Shannon Association:
http://shannon.weebly.com/
Maria Hughes-VP
7428 Parkwood Dr.
Fenton, MI 48430
810-714-0550

Ryan Lake Association:
Dan Green
11459 Koth Dr
Linden, Michigan 48451
810-735-9825

Lake Farm H. O. Association(Bennett Lake)
Attn: Jeanine Hunt
7233 Bennett Lake Rd.
Fenton, MI 48430
810-735-7533

HARTLAND TOWNSHIP

Hartland Shores Estates-Long Lake Assoc.
Robert Wesley
1123 Long Lake Dr
Brighton, MI 48114
248-978-3247

Parshallville Mill Pond Assoc.
P.O. Box 681
Parshallville, MI 48430
FAX 810-632-6311
Mike Bokcer
6142 Linden Rd.
Fenton, MI 48430
810-750-0209

Pleasant Valley Estates/Bitten Lake Assoc.
Steve Single
30 W. Peterson
Brighton, MI 48114
810-227-7489

GENESEE COUNTY LAKE ASSOCIATION WEBSITES
www.shinanguag.com
www.kearsleylakeassociation.org
www.hollowaylakeassociation.com
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Average AIR temperatures in Fenton Michigan

Soon the connecting ponds and lakes will be free of ice - enabling paddling.

The water temps will still be bone chilling without proper clothing the next few weeks
-take the appropriate precautions and if you don't know what they are, stay home.

Spring snow melt and rain can cause very swift current on the Shiawassee River

{ click on the chart below for a better view }

Shiawassee River Map with tributaries, watersheds, routes, trails

Various maps in a variety of formats - CLICK on them for better view

Shiawassee River Heritage Water Trail

 http://www.umflint.edu/resources/pdf/outreach/shiawasse-river-trail-map.pdf

 Thanks to :
Sara McDonnell, Program Coordinator
University Outreach, UM-Flint

Maps linked with geo-tagged pictures viewable in Google Earth

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/albumMap?uname=WilliH2O&aid=5554001279509233297#map

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/albumMap?uname=WilliH2O&aid=5459775380877347649#map

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/albumMap?uname=WilliH2O&aid=5463507338856007873#map

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/albumMap?uname=WilliH2O&aid=5547612891267388801#map

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Pictures of Shiatown Dam

Panoramio photos illustrate places, many of which show in the Google Earth layer.

http://www.panoramio.com/user/4402540/tags/Shiatown





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Paddlesports at the forefront of recreation in Michigan

 
State of Michigan Recreation Role

    Recreation responsibilities in Southeastern Michigan :

    1) development of a state-wide recreation plan.
    2) provision of large-scale recreation to serve the inter-county recreation needs of people.
    3) acquisition and management of natural lands.
    4) protection of natural resource areas and wildlife for conservation purposes.
    5) assistance to lower levels of government for development of recreation.

   
   Recreation includes paddlesports – canoe and kayaking.

   Paddlesports should come before motorboat fishing activities :
   - more accessible and desirable to the general everyday public.
   - kayaks and canoes cost far less than powerboats and don’t pollute the environment.
   - paddlesports provide much needed exercise, reduces stress levels, and is quiet.
   - launching a kayak or canoe can be easily done without highly expensive concrete trailer ramps
   - paddlesports adds to the economy via ecotourism , many travel quite far to paddle scenic areas.

    
 Waterways and scenic areas are very valuable as public recreational areas.
 Water is a shared resource that interconnects communities.
 It enhances the tourism industry and increase the quality of life for all .

    A navigable stream / creek / river is just as important as a walking / hiking / jogging / running / bicycle trail.

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Log Jam at Shiatown Dam

Photo taken Aug 7, 2010 by Jasmin at Big Country Photographics as seen on the DeviantArt webpage

This woody debris has been here soooo long - green grass has begun to grow upon the log jam

Shiatown Dam badly needs maintenance as the spring ice jams put pressure on the crumbling concrete

Shiatown Dam to be removed

State making plans to remove Shiatown dam

http://bit.ly/ShiatownDam

An article published in the Sunday February 13, 2011 Argus Press confirms the removal of the Shiatown Dam.

The Michigan Land Bank, which owns the dam, has announced plans to take it down.

“We are in the process of coming up with a plan and searching for funding to remove it,”
said Jeffrey Huntington, a property analyst at the Land Bank.
“Dam ownership is really not what the Land Bank does.
We don’t have the funds to sustain the dam for a long time.”

The Shiatown Dam in Durand, Michigan will soon disappear, be demolished, and removed
allowing the Shiawassee River to run freely once again.


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2000 people show up to Shiawassee River Races

Way back in 1963 , approximately 2,000 people watched the
8th Annual, Durand Sportsman Association,  boat races on the Shiawassee River  
The 18 mile race started down in Byron,MI and ended at the Shiatown Dam in Durand, MI


The Shiawassee River can be brought back to a navigable level for all of Michigan to enjoy !
It is not outside the realm of possibility - Myself and a few others have paddled 40 miles in 1 day.


Canoe and Kayak races on the Shiawassee River can rival those of the Ausable and Grand River

The Shiawassee River in the vicinity of Byron,Michigan needs a concentrated effort
to remove deadfall trees using chainsaws this summer to make the river navigable.

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/albumMap?uname=WilliH2O&aid=5463507338856007873#map 

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1873 Shiawassee Town map

The Argus-Press - Aug 19, 1982

Info taken from Page 6 in the Argus Press August 19, 1982
http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=_U8iAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Kq0FAAAAIBAJ&pg=1608,3985750&dq=shiawassee+town&hl=en

The location of the Grist Mill, Paper Mill and Saw Mill can be see on the map near the dam site
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Fiscal respect in Paddling sports versus fishing ?

Does paddlesports get the same fiscal respect as fishing in Michigan ?

What is the $ dollar value of Paddlesports to the Michigan economy versus the fishing industry ?

http://www.outdoorindustry.org/images/researchfiles/2009%20Paddlesports%20Report.FINAL.pdf

Canoes and Kayaks dominate boating throughout the USA
http://www.examiner.com/kayaking-in-detroit/canoes-and-kayaks-dominate-boating

Out of all the possible boat types available to the public at large
(16 years or older) over 20 % of them choose to use a kayak or canoe.

Paddlesports provides revenue to the economy via purchases in local communities for lodging, restaurants, supplies, gasoline, shopping, etc.

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Paddlesports recreation and dam removal

Dam removal  often  puts fishing concerns above those of the paddlesports industry and recreation.

Based on extended analysis of data collected for the Outdoor Recreation Participation Report using
the responses of over 40,000 Americans ages six and older - paddlesports is rapidly growing in the USA

17.8 million Americans ages 6 and older participate in kayaking, canoeing, and rafting

Kayaking has enjoyed steady growth in spite of the economic slump growing 3% each year.

The survey is the largest of its type examining participation in sports and outdoor activities.

http://www.outdoorindustry.org/images/researchfiles/2009%20Paddlesports%20Report.FINAL.pdf?79

Paddlers bring extensive revenue to communities via purchases for lodging, gasoline, restaurants, etc., etc.

Obstacles to fish ARE OFTEN obstacles to Paddlesports also - and our voice is powerful in $$$$  !

Friends of the Shiawassee River Annual Meeting: February 24 2011

The Friends of the Shiawassee River  Annual Meeting

- Thursday, February 24 · [ 7:00pm - 10:00pm ]

-  First United Methodist Church
- 1500 North Water St
-  Owosso, Michigan

Owosso Assistant City Manager Adam Zettel will discuss how to best integrate the Shiawassee River, which was identified by City Council as a proirity in 2011 in city planning efforts. All members of the organization are encouraged to attend,... as well as local and regional planning representatives and members of the community.

A suggested $5 donation is recommended and light refreshments will be provided.
Zettel will introduce the topic of “Integrating the Shiawassee River into Planning Efforts.” 
The event will be an open dialogue for members and the community to discuss assets of the River and potential for protection and development. 

“The Shiawassee River is a special place for the community. It helped establish and foster the growth of Owosso and other unique places and we hope to see it featured as an important piece of community development efforts,” said Heidi Frei, Director of the Friends of the Shiawassee River. 

The Friends will also elect new officers and recognize volunteers and local businesses for their assistance with the organizations conservations efforts. RSVP is not required, but encouraged.

For more information, please contact Jen McMillon at jmcmillon@ShiawasseeRiver

The Friends of the Shiawassee River are an all volunteer organization committed to improving the environment, promoting responsible use of, and enhancing the appreciation of the Shiawassee River throughout its watershed. 

For more information visit Friends of the Shiawassee River at www.shiawasseeriver.org. 

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Aging dam crisis in Michigan

Dam removal in Michigan needs to be streamlined and fast tracked by a think tank of professionals which most definitely include paddling aficionados, paddlesports retailers, and the ACA - American Canoe Association. Michigan has an enormous amount of creeks, streams, rivers, ponds, channels and lakes; all of which need attention.


Aging Dam Crisis in Michigan

Shiatown Dam in Durand, Michigan 48429

Spoke to the USA postal office and the Shiatown Dam is definitely in Durand, MI zip code 48429
The nearest major crossroads intersection is the corner of Bancroft Road and Bennington Road in Durand, MI

http://www.geonames.org/7648758/shiatown-dam.html
Shiatown Dam

Shiatown Dam is in Durand, Michigan 48429  -- click on image for enlarged, detailed view

Verified via :

USA Post Office

211 North Oak Street, 

Durand, Michigan 48429

(989) 288-3876

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Aerial View Shiatown Dam

Lat=42.929668 Lon=-84.072257

Click on pictures for a larger, more detailed view