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Penoyer Creek Restoration – Wisner Parcel

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Penoyer Creek is an iconic feature of the landscape and history of the Newaygo area. The steep slope, many groundwater inputs, and healthy brook trout population make it a regionally unique and wondrous system. Sadly, the natural wonder of Penoyer Creek has been heavily impacted and fragmented by years of impoundment, habitat modification, and industrial use. Penoyer Creek helped to build the community of Newaygo, but now it is in urgent need of restoration.

On the Wisner parcel, Penoyer Creek is buried underground as it passes through the remnants of the former Rowe Manufacturing plant.

Why It Matters

Daylighting of the stream channel and restoration of over 0.15 miles of cold-water stream habitat.
Reconnection of 5.25 miles of continuous stream habitat in Penoyer Creek to the Muskegon River and Great Lakes for the first time in more than 185 years.
Reduction and elimination of environmental and safety risks imposed by derelict dam infrastructure.
Long-term resiliency and community stewardship.
Recreational opportunity and enjoyment – fishing, birdwatching, and more.

Goals

Daylight the stream from the impoundment and re-establish a natural channel.
Address the large hydraulic drop obstructing fish passage while maintaining a sea lamprey barrier.
Restoration of habitat, connectivity, and natural stream function to >0.15 miles of Penoyer Creek.

Location

"This project is a major step toward a healthier, more resilient Muskegon River."

Newaygo County Resident

Funding Summary

We are actively fundraising for this project.

EGLE – Dam Safety Unit — $250,000.

Contact MRWA today to get involved.

Timeline

2025 – Begin fundraising.
2026 – Begin site assessment, engineering and design, continue fundraising.
2027 – Future – Complete engineering, design, permitting, and construction. Ongoing monitoring and impact evaluation

A healthy, free-flowing Penoyer Creek is restored.

Project Partners

Every project helps conserve and restore the Muskegon River. You can help support our work by making a gift, volunteering your time, or partnering with us.