Removal of the failing dam on Buckhorn Creek in Paris will begin the week of May 11 and continue through this summer, restoring natural stream conditions to this important cold-water tributary to the Muskegon River.

A high, free-spanning bridge over an exceptionally scenic, pure Michigan creek will replace the unsightly, deteriorated dam. The newly installed bridge will be a popular stop along the White Pine Trail as visitors take in the beautiful sounds and scenery of free-flowing water.

John Henry Excavating will be doing the work, which was designed and engineered by the Spicer Group. The project is being coordinated by the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA).

Buckhorn Creek is a unique, steep gradient stream that is currently obstructed by a failing dam built under the original Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, now home to the popular Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park.

The former impoundment was drawn down a number of years ago. MRWA biological sampling already shows habitat improvement in the former impoundment. Dam removal will further restore natural stream function and reconnect Buckhorn Creek to the Muskegon River for the first time in more than one-hundred years. This reconnection will allow for the passage of trout and native fishes from the main river to 2.4 miles of cold-water refuge and spawning waters.

“Along with our excitement about restoring this exceptional cold-water ecosystem, we are excited about the community impact,” said Paul Haan, MRWA Executive Director. “This project will enhance year-round recreational enjoyment—cycling, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, and more—on the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail and at nearby Paris Park. A 100-year-old dam will be replaced with modern infrastructure that lets the stream flow freely, allows emergency access for improved safety, and supports life. It’s a really cool project.”

Buckhorn Creek has a robust, naturally-reproducing brown trout population. Reconnecting Buckhorn to the Muskegon River will provide access to refuge and spawning habitat for the nearly 20,000 brown and rainbow trout stocked by the Michigan DNR at Paris Park each year, improving this regional fishery.

John Henry Excavating is expected to mobilize equipment the week of May 11 and break ground the following week. At that time, the White Pine Trail will be closed, and trail users will experience a short detour along Northland Drive. The trail is expected to reopen by September 25 with a new state-of-the-art bridge.

Partners in the project include the Mecosta County Parks Commission, Friends of the White Pine Trail, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Project Management is being provided by Southpeat Environmental.

Total project costs are $2.2 million, including project development, planning, engineering, and construction. Funding partners include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan DNR, National Fish & Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), Mecosta County Parks Commission, Great Lakes Fisheries Trust, and the Meijer Foundation.

The Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA) is dedicated to preserving, restoring, and sustaining the Muskegon River and its tributaries throughout a nine-county service area from Higgins Lake in Roscommon County to Muskegon Lake. The organization focuses on conservation and restoration initiatives that advance the Muskegon River Watershed Management Plan, including dam removals, bank stabilizations, and other conservation projects. The non-profit organization was formed in 2000 and is based in Big Rapids. More information can be found at mrwa.org.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Muskegon River Watershed Assembly.}