MAEOE Fall Meetup: Managing Water Issues in Mid-Michigan

MAEOE Fall Meetup: Managing Water Issues in Mid-Michigan

One of Michigan’s great assets is its fresh water, but there are many issues with protecting that
water and the creatures that rely on it. Come explore two of the problems and their solutions in
the middle of our state: stormwater runoff and dams preventing the migration of andramdous
fish, then refresh yourself with one of the best uses of our freshwater (the making of adult
beverages). Dave Chapman will be your guide on these water issues, and the tour is open to all
(so bring friends and family), but please register everyone at MAEOE.com.

First, we will visit the tollgate facility in Lansing Township. The tollgate facility is one of the
leading examples nationally on how to deal with stormwater runoff. Many cities have been trying
to address the problem of storm water causing sewage system overflow: some by installing
separate street drains just for rainwater; others creating larger drains or holding tanks. The
Tollgate project took a unique ecology-based approach which turned out to be much less
expensive than all others and at the same time created a wonderful wildlife area in the middle of
the city. Join us to walk the site and see how an ecological approach came up with a better
idea.

Next, we will drive to the Brenke Fish Ladder on the Grand River in Lansing’s Old Town district.
We will discuss the impact dams have on a river’s ecosystem, and how fish ladders are a way to
aid anadromous fish get through for spawning. If lucky, we will be able to see some salmon
making their way up the ladder.

Finally, we will go to Looking Glass Brewery, where brewer Lee Streeter makes some of the
best beers in the area. The brewery, which is named after the local watershed, recycles spent
grain as cattle feed and exists in a remodeled historic building in downtown Dewitt.
We will meet at the tollgate facility at 9:30, and the tour should end up around noon at Looking
Glass, on Saturday, October 22.

If you have questions, e-mail Bill Hodges at maeoe.president@gmail.com .