Coastal Marshlands Restored at Lake St. Clair Metropark

Macomb County and Huron-Clinton Metroparks unveiled this week the newly restored coastal marshlands at Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township. 

“This project is a great example of many partners working together to keep Macomb County environmentally friendly," Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said. “Protecting our coastal marshland, waterways, trees and other green assets is very important.”

The park’s nature center was updated with a new observation area and boardwalk, allowing visitors to walk within the marsh and learn about the wildlife.

The work was made possible by a $1.5-million grant given to the county in 2010 to restore nearly 500 acres of the coastal marshland. The wetlands, which had been exposed to filling, construction or drainage ditches, now has an improved hydrological process with restoration to native plant and wildlife species, according to the county. 

Macomb County and the Huron-Clinton Metroparks teamed up with the Clinton River Watershed Council, Wayne State University, Oakland University and Harrison Township for the project.

According to the county, the highlights of the initiative are:

• Restored hydrology of Point Rosa Marsh.

• Removal of historical fill.

• Creation of shallow water habitat for birds, reptiles and amphibians.

• Creation of habitat structures for reptiles and birds.

• Management and reduction of invasive Phragmites and narrow-leaf cattail.

“This project not only improves the environment, it also opens up access for our park visitors to experience the marsh," said John McCulloch, director of Huron-Clinton Metroparks.