Riparian Rehab Program
The Riparian Rehabilitation Program (Riparian Rehab) was conceived and developed in 2002 by PMWC Directors Paul Bigford and Fred McLane to serve as an educational resource and financial catalyst for property owners on the river who wanted to correct conditions on their property which adversely affected the river. The intent was to develop a program by which the Pere Marquette Watershed Council would be a resource tool for riparians who wanted to improve their stream bank property. Minimizing sediment delivery to the river is crucial to preserving spawning habitat and the production of micro invertebrates. Under program guidelines, individuals can learn about acceptable stream bank stabilization techniques; erosion control remedies; DNR permit processes; recommended contractors; and also can apply for limited matching financial assistance.
The program was initially funded with “seed” monies from the Pere Marquette Watershed Council (PMWC) and later funded by a generous contribution of $15,000 from Ludington’s Dow Chemical in 2003. Since that time, over $150,000 (90% Riparian-10% Riparian Rehab Fund monies) has been spent on improving deteriorating banks and correcting erosion problems on all branches of the Pere Marquette River system, which ultimately improve the resource.
A Stabilization-Permit-Process pamphlet was created by Paul Bigford to assist riparians as to the permitting process, how to request the assistance PMWC and explains the availability of financial aid. PMWC has established a committee that completes field investigations of prospective sites and coordinates with restoration contractors the cost estimates and timelines for interested landowners. This committee then makes recommendations to the entire PMWC Board for grant approvals in conjunction with Landowners commitment. Once approved by the Board of Directors, PMWC provides a monetary grant to the landowner to cover a portion of the cost. This typically is targeted at 10% of the project cost.
Today, the program is supported with internal PMWC funds and a donation from OxyChem Corporation. We invite individuals seeking assistance or wanting to make a donation to this program to contact us.