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Clay Cliffs Riparian Restoration

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Mitchell Creek flows through the heart of Big Rapids, supporting healthy trout populations despite years of impact from logging, damming, and agriculture. The Clay Cliffs erosion site dumps an estimated 326 tons of sediment into the stream annually—smothering spawning habitat, degrading water quality, and threatening the creek’s future. We’re stabilizing the bank, restoring native vegetation, and protecting this accessible downtown natural area for Big Rapids and the broader watershed.

Why It Matters

Stops 326 tons of annual sediment from entering Mitchell Creek and the Muskegon River
Restores habitat and water quality for trout and native species
Protects one of the largest eroding banks in the middle Muskegon River watershed
Preserves accessible recreation—fishing, birding, and hiking in downtown Big Rapids
Establishes community stewardship through volunteer planting and trail management

Goals

Technical stabilization of the eroding streambank
Restoration of healthy riparian vegetation with 600+ native trees and shrubs
Redirection of trails to reduce foot traffic and stormwater runoff contributing to erosion
Improved stream ecosystem structure and function

Location

"This project protects our downtown creek and shows what's possible when the community comes together for restoration."

Mecosta County Resident

Funding Summary

Project cost: $45,000

Funding partners:

Big Rapids Rotary
City of Big Rapids
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Individual donors from the Big Rapids community

Timeline

2021-2022 — Planning, partnership development, fundraising

2023-2024 — Permitting, Phase I restoration (bank toe stabilization), monitoring

2025 — Phase II restoration, trail redirection, community planting event

Future — Ongoing monitoring and community stewardship

Restoration of one of the largest eroding banks in the middle Muskegon River watershed.

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.