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Altona Dam Removal

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The Altona Dam stood on the Little Muskegon River for more than 150 years—a relic from Michigan’s logging era that outlived its purpose decades ago. The derelict structure blocked fish passage, degraded habitat, and posed a public safety hazard. In 2025, MRWA removed the dam, restored natural stream flow, and reconnected 18 miles of cold-water habitat supporting wild brook trout and native species. The Little Muskegon River is whole again.

Why It Matters

Reconnected 18 miles of stream and 98 miles of tributaries for fish passage
Restored habitat for wild-reproducing brook trout, stocked brown and rainbow trout, and native species
Re-established natural stream function and gradient
Eliminated a hazardous dam structure and ongoing maintenance burden
Created new recreation access with an accessible kayak launch

Goals

Removal of outdated and hazardous dam structure
Re-establishment of natural stream channel and gradient
Installation of accessible canoe and kayak launch
Restoration of habitat, connectivity, and natural stream function

Location

"Removing this dam means healthier water, better fishing, and safer recreation for everyone who loves this river."

Mecosta County Resident

Funding Summary

Total Project Cost: $615,000

Funding Partners:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Mecosta County Road Commission (in-kind support)

Timeline

2020 — Planning, pre-development, begin fundraising

2021-2022 — Assessment, engineering, design, permitting, continued fundraising

2023-2024 — Bid construction, dam removal

2025 — Kayak launch installation, monitoring for impact evaluation

18 miles of the Little Muskegon River reconnected and 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.