| 1 min | by Doug Marrin |
In a state known for its lakes, great and small, there are also groups who are stewards over the inland waterways, both great and small. Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited (AATU) is one of these bands of dedicated volunteers, who, among other places, watch over the conservation of Dexter’s Mill Creek and their current project is to restore habitat for the fish who live there.
The project Trout Unlimited proposed to Dexter City Council is for the club to fund and plant trees and shrubs along the northwest bank of Mill Creek, opposite of Forest Lawn Cemetery. The planting will be in conjunction with the second phase of the Mill Creek Park Trail that will extend from the park to the schools creating a non-motorized pathway for students to use as well as for the general public’s enjoyment. AATU expects the project to cost no more than $10,000.
The purpose of the Trout Unlimited planting project is to provide shade to Mill Creek in order to reduce water temperatures for optimal aquatic habitat. It will also provide a protective covering for water life and enhance the overall landscape.
“The planting area is about 250 feet long, on the west side of the creek, and is a low shelf that’s less than 20 feet wide,” said William Phillips of AATU in an email to the City of Dexter. “Our goal is to plant mostly shrubs and small trees that arch over and touch the water providing shelter for fish. Several of the plants were used in the park design so there will be some continuity as well.”
In partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, AATU released last year in 2019 2,700 brown trout into Mill Creek at the park in Dexter.
The idea was first presented to Dexter’s Parks and Recreation Commission who unanimously approved it at their April 21, 2020 meeting. Dexter City Council also unanimously gave the plan final approval a week later.
AATU’s original intention was to begin planting in mid-May. That may still happen, but as with many plans these days, the situation remains fluid and the group remains flexible.
