St. Clair River Habitat Restoration

St. Clair River Habitat Restoration. Marine City Drain Habitat Restoration. , The St. Clair River is part of the connecting channels between Lake Huron and Lake Erie. It is a 40 mile strait that flows south from Lake Huron to Lake St. Clair. The river serves as a navigational passage as well as an ecosystem for a great diversity of fish and wildlife. Over the past century, critical habitat has been lost due to urban, industrial and agricultural development. , , At the confluence of the Marine City Drain and the St. Clair River, the habitat was enhanced by removing old broken concrete along the shoreline and replacing it with cobble for fish habitat. Break walls were constructed to create an area protected from the high velocity currents and boat wakes of the St. Clair River. Additional rock was placed to add diversity to the water flow which appeals to game fish such as smallmouth bass as well as the small non-game forage fish. Multiple large whole trees placed within the protected area will attract reptiles such as the painted turtle. , , The goal of this shoreline restoration is to enhance the habitat and aesthetic value of the St. Clair River while providing opportunities to engage and enjoy this unique environment.