Penoyer Creek is an iconic feature of the landscape and history of the Newaygo area. Originating in the outflows of Pickerel and Emerald Lakes, the stream flows approximately 5.25 miles before plunging into the Muskegon River under M-37 just north of the City of Newaygo. Penoyer Creek is a regionally rare and unique stream, with one of the steepest gradients in the watershed, upper reaches supporting diverse warmwater-coolwater fisheries, and numerous groundwater inputs in the lower sections that support a healthy coldwater fishery and resident brook trout population.
It is no doubt this natural wonder was recognized when Augustus Penoyer and company constructed the sawmill in the Muskegon River Watershed at its mouth in 1837. Since, around nine impounding structures have been constructed on Penoyer Creek to power mills, logging operations, manufacturing, and energy production. Three impoundments remain; the Wisner Impoundment (formerly Rowe Manufacturing), Rowe Dam #1, and furthest upstream, Rowe Dam #2. However, more than 185 years of impoundment, habitat modification, and industrial use has heavily impacted and fragmented the natural wonder of Penoyer Creek. The structures are in poor condition and high priority for removal due to the public safety risk and high environmental impacts they impose.
The Muskegon River Watershed Assembly, Consumers Energy, and partners have recognized the need to restore this iconic waterway, and are working towards the removal of these three impoundments and re-establishment of a natural, free flowing Penoyer Creek so that this natural wonder may be enjoyed for generations to come. The stream helped to build Newaygo, now it is in vital need of restoration, of our help.
