The sand trap costs are carefully recorded and compared to the resulting changes in stream morphology and salmonid reproduction in a study area immediately below the trap. Monitoring costs for this ten-year project are substantial and we are actively seeking funding so that we may continue without interruption. The project features removal of sediment from point bars and oxbows without establishing sand traps, utilizing the prototype Stream Sweeper dredge being developed by the Michigan Council of Trout Unlimited, and the creation of artificial spawning riffles in various tributaries. The five-year project is being managed by Mainstream Resources out of Bay City. Their monthly progress reports are available from the list below.
Many people never see the origins of a river.
This is the actual spring where Ruby Creek commences. This is a view of Ruby Creek, just a few feet downstream from its origin. A portion of the GLFT grant was allocated for the development of an Interpretive Center by the Ruby Creek Sportsmen s Club. This group has been extraordinarily successful in bringing this project to fruition. An important component has been the development of an educational curriculum for the Mason and Oceana school districts with the Interpretive Center as the focal point.