Scottville takes steps to restore riverbank. 

The stream bank of the Pere Marquette River in Riverside Park. MCP file photo.

Scottville takes steps to restore riverbank. 

SCOTTVILLE — The City of Scottville is taking steps to stabilize the stream bank of the Pere Marquette River that flows through Riverside Park. On Monday, during its regular meeting, the City Commission voted unanimously to enter into an agreement with Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA), a non-profit organization based out of Traverse City, to create a plan to restore the stream bank at a cost of $10,000. 

Former Mayor Bruce Krieger has been spearheading the project and has been securing grant funding and donation to offset costs for the restoration project which is estimated to cost a total of $35,000. 

“Back in the 1970s the City of Scottville received a grant to replace all those lots in the river bank in Riverside Park,” Krieger said during public comment of the meeting. “We have a little problem now in the river park right on the bend. I have been working trying to get some grants to remedy the situation.”

Krieger said representatives from the Conservation Resource Alliance and the Pere Marquette Watershed Association have looked at the bank and all are in agreement that the bank needs to be restored before it erodes. 

Krieger said the Fin & Feather Club of Mason County has committed $3,000 towards the project. He said he is confident he has financial commitments from four or five other sources as well. He also added that City Clerk Kelse Lester has been helping him search for grants. 

Through the agreement CRA will develop a site plan that will include stream bank stabilization measures such as floodplain restoration, toe wood placement, and revegetation work. CRA will assist the city to complete and submit the appropriate permits. 

Krieger said work will not interfere with fish spawning. 

Anyone wishing to make a contribution to the project may send that contribution to Scottville City Hall, Riverside Park Stream Bank Erosion Control Project, 105 N. Main St., Scottville, MI 49454.

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