The City and GRWW recognized early on the need for fish passage around the AHS when it is being operated as a sea lamprey barrier. A fish passage ladder, similar in function to the existing structure at the Sixth Street Dam, was incorporated into the proposed AHS structure and will create similar passage conditions while maintaining effectiveness as a sea lamprey barrier. The design of the AHS was shared with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and is one of 14 alternatives that will be considered as part of the Upper Reach Project which will ultimately be selected by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission.
Recognizing the future desires for a water trail and increased opportunities for non-motorized watercraft on the Grand River, a small craft portage was also incorporated into the design of the potential AHS to allow passage around the structure.