The Shiawassee National

Wildlife Refuge and its part-

ners celebrated the comple-

tion of the Maankiki Marsh

restoration which restored

940 acres of wetland. The

project was the largest resto-

ration ever completed at the

refuge, and one of the larg-

est ever completed in the

Great Lakes region. The pro-

ject also included reconnection of the marsh to the Shiawassee River,

which will permit fish spawning in the marsh. Coordinated

by Ducks Unlimited, the project was funded by multiple part-

ners, including Saginaw Bay WIN.

2017 SPRING RESOURCE GROUP MEETING PROJECT PROPOSALS

Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network

June 9, 2017 9:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.

Andersen Enrichment Center

120 Ezra Rust Drive

Saginaw, MI 48601

GRANT APPLICATION FORM Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network P.O. Box 734 Bay City, MI 48707

Please answer the following questions in the space provided. You may include a one-page attachment. When completed, your application packet should not exceed four pages. Send your completed form electronically to info@saginawbaywin.org and mail a signed, hard copy to Saginaw Bay WIN, P.O. Box 734, Bay City, MI 48707. Proposals may be submitted at any time. If you have questions, please call (989) 892-9171. SECTION 1 - GENERAL Project Name Engaging Youth in the Environment and Sustainability & Increasing Energy Efficiency at MPDM Sponsoring Organization / Local Champion Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum

Is the sponsor a 501(c)(3) organization? Yes No

Name & Position of Contact Person Liz Conway, Executive Director Address 5093 E. Remus Rd. City Mt. Pleasant

State MI

Zip 48858

Phone (989)317-3221

Fax (989)317-8004

Email liz@mpdiscoverymuseum.org

Amount Requested $16,100

Project Start Date February 2017

Project End Date October 2017

Geographic Area Served Midland, Clare, Isabella, Gratiot, Mecosta, Montcalm Countires

SECTION 2 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Please describe the project. How is it innovative? What need(s) does it address? Is there a relationship between this project and other programs/projects occurring in the watershed? The Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum (MPDM) strives is to spark creativity, nourish learning, and inspire curiosity of children through self-directed discovery in an engaging, hands-on environment. Since we opened our doors four years ago, we have welcomed nearly 200,000 visitors from Mid-Michigan and beyond. Through this request, MPDM is seeking to improve our environmental impact and improve opportunities for children to learn about the environment and sustainability. To improve our environmental impact and to build sustainability into our business model, MPDM is seeking to replace or retrofit our current fluorescent bulbs into LED lighting throughout the 12,000 sq ft facility. Not only will this be used as a teaching opportunity about the importance of energy efficiency, but the museum also expects to recognize a $35,000 electrical cost savings over 10 years. The objective is to replace/convert lights in the community rooms, restrooms, exhibit areas and museum floor as well as the parking lot. We currently have applied for a 1:1 matching grant through the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs for this project. Their Capital Improvement Grant Program is a highly competitive matching grant program for nonprofit arts organizations, counties, cities, townships and villages that provides funding assistance for the establishment or renovation of cultural facilities, such as museums. With WIN’s history and its reputation (along with potential funding support) we feel that support for this effort will put the MPDM in a great position to receive funding from this program. Further, through a series of focus groups, MPDM has determined the need to maintain the vibrancy of our museum exhibit floor. When designing exhibits, we week to provide opportunities where children are being active and engaged. We also look to tie our exhibits into the local community, important life lessons and to educational standards. As such, the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum is seeking to develop and install a new educational exhibit about engaging youth in the environment and sustainability. The proposed exhibit pieces include:

1) Camper and tents for imaginative play 2) Magnifying table for nature related activities 3) Animal cutouts and habitats 4) Trees where species can be identified 5) Native species and invasive species plant and bug exploration 6) Climbable rock & Hollow Log for gross motor development 7) Hollow log to climb through for gross motor development

It is anticipated that the new exhibit will increase attendance at the museum, encourage environmental stewardship, and provide opportunities for hands-on learning experiences. This exhibit, as well as all the exhibits in the museum, are tied to the Michigan Academic Standards for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. We feel that the relationship between this proposed exhibit ties with the Saginaw Bay WIN’s objectives of education, regional marketing, and education. MPDM has been working with an advisory team for the development of the exhibit that includes Mike Kelly- Saginaw Bay WIN, Charlie Bauer- DEQ, Brill Wright, Saginaw Bay WIN, Sue Ann Kopmeyer- Isabella County Parks, Katie Randall- Chippewa Watershed Conservancy. We anticipate that the wall in the exhibit will be painted with a scene from one of our Isabella County parks. A pretend river will flow through the exhibit. Children will be able to climb through a log to reach a magnifying table where they will be able to utilize articulating magnifying lamps to study native and invasive plants and bugs. Cut outs of animals can also be identified around the exhibit. It is also anticipated that in a future phase of the project, an additional outdoor wetland area will be developed.

Office Use: Application #_________________ Ag/P2 Water Communication Wildlife Land Use Other________________________

SECTION 4 – SUSTAINABILITY LINKAGES AND GOALS Describe the project’s goals and how you will measure whether it has achieved those goals. Economic goals: Provide more learning opportunities to families and schools in Mid-Michigan. We anticipate with the opening of the new exhibit we will experience an increase in attendance. We will measure the impact based on the number of visitors from each of the Mid-Michigan Counties listed above. The lighting project will save the museum an estimated $35,000 over 10 years. Community or social goals: The proposed exhibit at the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum will help families to explore nature together. Measurement of this exploration can be determined by amount of use the exhibit receives, feedback received from visitors (via survey, Facebook, online reviews), and even increased attendance at local parks. The proposed light project will literally brighten up our facility, improve safety and liability, and encourage families to stay, play and learn all day. Environmental goals: Educate young people about important environmental subjects. These topics include; animal and plant species and their habitat, invasive species, energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. Measurements for this exhibit can include survey cards completed by visitors regarding their views of increase awareness around the education topics. The light project will help MPDM to reduce our overall energy usage.

SECTION 5 – RELATIONSHIP TO WIN OBJECTIVES

Describe how the project fits with WIN’s Vision, Mission and Guiding Principals. Vision- Our proposed exhibit aligns with WIN’s vision of educating children to be environmental stewards. Mission- By collaborating with local groups and businesses, our exhibit will create an opportunity for children and their families to learn about the environment and sustainability while connecting with others. The proposed exhibit gives even our youngest children the opportunity to engage children in nature (even throughout the winter) in a safe environment. This exhibit will allow young people to get lost in imaginative play, develop their gross motor skills by climbing on the rock and through the log, and help them to understand what plants and animals live in our local environment. Proposed learning objectives through academic standards are included with this application. In addition, the energy efficiency initiative meets WIN’s objectives of using infrastructure effectively and efficiently. SECTION 6 – RESULTS What tangible results do you expect from the project and how will you measure them? Tangible results from this project will be the completed exhibit and increase attendance at the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum. An additional tangible result will be the replacement and upgrade of lighting throughout the facility and a reduction in our energy bills.

SECTION 3 – COLLABORATING ORGANIZATIONS

What other organizations are participating in this project and what are their roles? For the lighting component, MPDM has sought several quotes for the project. Once our funding is obtained, our Board of Directors will work with the selected contractor to enter a contract according to our bylaws. As mentioned above, the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum is working with an advisory committee for the design and development of this exhibit. The advisory committee members include Mike Kelly from the Saginaw Bay WIN, Charlie Bauer from the DEQ, Bill Wright from the Saginaw Bay WIN, Sue Ann Kopmeyer from the Isabella County Parks and Rec, and Katie Randall from the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy. The Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum began this project with the Isabella County Parks and Recreation Commission. Through a series of meetings, our two organizations have created an initial design for the exhibit including learning objectives and have received feedback from the advisory group. In addition to a sponsorship from The Parks and Recreation Commission, our two organizations will be working together to secure funding to ensure the exhibits completion.

SECTION 7 – COMMUNICATION

How do you plan to communicate your project to the public and/or your intended audience? The Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum plans to communicate our Exhibit project in the following ways:

1) Exhibit Grand Opening Celebration 2) Facebook acknowledgement (nearly 6,000 followers), Website acknowledgement, local newspapers/media 3) Email blasts to nearly 2,500 contacts 4) Signage 5) Special events/learning activities that align with the exhibit such as educational presentations and lesson plans.

SECTION 8 – BUDGET Total Budget WIN Funds Personnel Expenses (briefly describe) Exhibit installation and Rigging

2,400

Material and Supply Expenses (briefly describe) Trees, pup tents, rock, hallow log, camper, animal cutouts, magnifying table, printed wall, carpet, river, educational signage, animal identification kiosk

33,500 5,100

Equipment Expenses (briefly describe) Lighting Upgrades

22,000 11,000

Communication/Marketing Expenses (briefly describe)

Other Expenses (briefly describe)

Total Project Cost

57,900

Funds Requested from WIN

16,100

What funds have already been obtained for this project? (describe sources) MPDM has received $12,860 for the exhibit to date. It is important to note that Isabella County Parks and Recreation Commission is committed to being a sponsor of the exhibit providing approved budget support. We also have a grant submitted for climbable log. Further MPDM applied to the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs for $11,000 to cover half of the costs of the light replacement project.

How do you plan to finance the portion not funded by WIN? Through this request, the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum is seeking $5,100 to cover the costs of our magnifying table for viewing native and invasive species and an animal identification kiosk and $11,000 for lighting upgrades. The Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum has created a plan to reach out to various funding sources to ensure the development of this new exhibit. This plan includes reaching out to businesses, foundations, community groups, government agencies, and individuals. Have you contacted the community foundation in the area most directly benefited by your project? If yes, with what result? MPDM has submitted a request to the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation for the hollow log for children to climb through. The grant was due at the end of May. A decision should be made in late June. Is this an on-going project? If yes, how will funding be continued? This is not an on-going project. Once the proposed exhibit is built, the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum will work to maintain the vibrancy of the exhibit. Further, once the lights are replaced, it is estimated that they have a life span of 10 years.

SECTION 9 – CERTIFICATION

Our governing board approves the submission of this grant request. I certify that the information contained herein is accurate to the best of my knowledge.

5/12/17

Authorized Signature Date

Liz Conway, Executive Director

Print Name and Title

Intended Michigan Academic Standards- Kindergarten through 5th grade Science- Students will… K-LS1-1 Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive K-ESS2-2 Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in difference habitats 3-LS1-1 Develop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death Social Studies- Students will… K—G1.0.2 Use environmental directions or positional words (up/down, in/out, above/below) to identify significant locations in the classroom. K—G5.0.1 Describe ways people use the environment to meet human needs and wants (e.g. food, shelter, clothing). 3—G1.0.1 Use cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) to describe the relative location of significant places in the immediate environment 4—G1.0.1 Identify questions geographers ask in examining the United States (e.g. Where it is? What is it like there? How is it connected to other places?) Mathematics- Students will… K.G.1 Describe objects in the environment using names of shapes, and describe the relative positions of these objects using terms such as above, below, beside, in front of, behind, and next to.

Visual Arts, Music, Dance, & Theater- Students will… ART.D.I.K.1 Explore basic locomotor movements; e.g., walk, run, gallop, slide, and jump moving in a straight pathway ART.D.I.K.2 Introduce and explore non-locomotor/axial movements in personal space by bending, stretching, reaching, and twisting. ART.D.I.K.3 Explore low, middle and high levels ART.D.I.K.4 Explore personal space while standing, sitting. ART.D.II.K.3 Explore contrasting concepts such as high and low, big and small. ART.D.I.1.1 Explore basic locomotor movements moving in a straight line; e.g., walk, run, gallop, slide, jump, step hop, skip. ART.D.I.1.2 Explore non-locomotor/axial movement within personal space ART.D.I.1.3 Explore shapes at low, middle, and high levels ART.D.I.2.4 Explore personal space by standing, sitting, kneeling, lying prone, and supine.] ART.T.I.K.1 Imitate and recreate the sounds of objects, animals, and people ART.T.I.K.2 Recognize a variety of real and non-real characters through guided dramatization. ART.T.II.K.2 Differentiate between dramatic play and creative drama ART.T.I.1.1 Imitate and recreate the sounds of objects, animals, and people ART.VA.I.K.1 Identify and explore a variety of materials to communicate personal experiences. ART.VA.I.K.2 Work with materials and tools safely with environmental awareness.

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Regional Marketing of the Cass River WaterTrail

Cass River Greenway ■

Robert Zeilinger, Chairman, Cass River Greenway

509 Harvest Lane

Frankenmuth MI 48734 989-652-9617

N/A rjzei@aol.com $15,750

October 2017 March 2018 Cass & Saginaw River Watersheds

The Cass River Greenway Committee is an effort organized by a group of local volunteers, assisted by professional resources and municipal leaders,working to enhance the Cass River Corridor. Formed in 2007, the Cass River Greenway Committee is leading the effort to create an attractive watertrail with diverse opportunities for recreation, education, and conservation that connects communities and entices local residents and visitors toexperience the Cass River. Projects and initiatives undertaken by the Cass River Greenway Committee supports regional efforts to enhance localquality of life, the development of eco-tourism amenities, and furthering the preservation of wildlife habitat and natural lands while makingimprovements to water quality. The Cass River Greenway Committee also engages and educates local and national participants and stakeholdersabout the abundance of natural assets available in the region that supports and strengthens the local communities and economies. Projectaccomplishments to date include;1. The development of 10+ access points linking several communities and land owners to the trail system;2. Significant improvement of the Cass River water quality;3. Preservation of wildlife habitat along the Cass River including the removal of invasive species such as phragmities;4. Establishment of annual river cleanups to improve the overall aesthetics of the river and encourage the public to keep the river clean; and5. The development of an initiative which seeks a National Water Trail Designation for the Cass River.

We have identified the need to provide accessible and understandable water trail information, including details for identifying access and trail routes;cultural, historic, and natural features; hazards; and water quality. Information regarding the water trail as previously described also needs to bepromoted to the community and to a broad national or worldwide audience. To satisfy these requirements the sub-committee has identified threeunique and innovative projects. They include;

• Aerial drone photos and video of all launch sites and various segments throughout the Cass River.• Updated trail map kiosks which will be placed throughout the Cass River Trail system. These maps will have a uniform look and feel to them toensure the ease of use regardless of access point or drop out location. And;• The development of an interactive Cass River Trail website. The site will present in a user friendly manner the information included in the CassRiver Greenway Water Trail Inventory and Assessment. The website will incorporate information on:o An overview of the water trail and what the trail has to offero A trip finder to help people find adventures that fit their needso Access points including maps and amenitieso River information that includes water character, hazards and pointso of interesto Trail Town information on the communities along the rivero Safety & etiquetteo Eventso Links to related websites

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See Attached

All Cass River WaterTrail access sites have uniform way finding and related information. The Cass River WaterTrail web site is complete, user friendly, and linked to all trail communities and jurisdiction web sites.

Announcement of the web site will be through local community news outlets, local Chambers of Commerce and their outgoing news sources

See Attached

See Attached

The CRG has worked diligently over the past 10 years to develop a watertrail primarily aimed atfamily oriented users. We have now completed the vision regarding facilities. This project aims todevelop a regional marketing tool for not only the Cass River but also for the communities in thearea, the Shiawassee Wildlife Refuge, the Saginaw River and beyond. The web site will connectresidents and potential visitors to recreation opportunities, area businesses, local events, andenviromental and safety etiquete. It will promote excellence by fostering a sense of identificationand pride in the Cass River Watershed and beyond. The web site will link community web sitesand will be accesible via desktop, tablet or phone.

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$15,750

$30,600 $4,750

24,000 10,000

1,500 1,000

56,100

A grant request is in process to Region 5 East Central Mi Prosperity for the remainder of the web site project.

Frankenmuth, Bridgeport, Vassar and Tuscola foundations and resources have been actively supporting their local launch site projects including kiosks and signs. They have not been approached for web site develpment.

Individual communities are responsible for the general maintenance of their launch sites and amenities. The web site develpment contract includes the first year on maintenance cost. The ongoing support plan is yet to be determined. The Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce & CVB is leading the web site project at this point.

May 31, 2017

Robert Zeilinger, Chairman - Cass River Greenway

10 water trail map kiosk panels @$325=3250, plus $1000 for graphic desgn and $500 foradministration/procurement

Professional services to develop and temporarily host the Cass River WaterTrail web site

Drone services for web site photos and videos

Funding for the kiosks has been received from the MNRTF, Cass River Greenway, community contributions and various match grants for launches.WIN request is for replacement on "out of date" panels and new kiosk watertrail map panels not funded by MNRTF. $500 for drone services has beenreceived from Region 6 East Mi Prosperity

Section 3 – Collaborating Organizations

What other organizations are participating in this project and what are their roles?

Cass River Greenway - The Cass River Greenway is a group of local volunteers that have been working since 2007 to improve the quality of recreational

opportunities along the Cass River, while preserving and enhancing wildlife habitat and water quality. The group has made significant progress on

developing the necessary infrastructure for a water trail that encompasses the lower half of the Cass River and is now working to determine the best

effort going forward to further enhance and promote the trail system.

To help with this effort, the Cass River Greenway has formed a special committee to study the best course of action and implement various action ideas.

The group has also dedicated two members to assist with the project.

City of Vassar - The City of Vassar has been active with the Cass River Greenway Committee since its inception. The City has hosted numerous river bank

cleanups and is currently in the process of installing a kayak/canoe launch to further boost access to the Cass River. Past projects also include the

removal of a major dam in 2012. The City further documents its support for the Cass River Greenway by including projects in the City’s most recent

Master Plan and Parks and Recreation Plan. Both documents were adopted by the City Council in 2015.

The City of Vassar is providing support for this project by assigning the City Manager to participate.

City of Frankenmuth Parks and Recreation & Frankenmuth Downtown Development Authority - The City of Frankenmuth has been very active in the

development of recreational opportunities along the Cass River. The City of Frankenmuth has constructed a “Universally Accessible” launch, which

adjusts to changing water levels giving people of all abilities the opportunity to launch and retrieve a canoe or kayak safely, as well as a new rock ramp

that allows game fish to move upstream and includes several locations to enter and exit the river. The City also maintains several other boat launches

and conducts maintenance activities to ensure accessibility. The City of Frankenmuth includes support for further development of access points along

the Cass River within the City’s 2014 Frankenmuth Area Recreation Plan and the 2015 Frankenmuth Joint Growth Management Plan. The City of

Frankenmuth is allotting two staff members to this project; the Downtown Development Authority Executive Director and the Frankenmuth Parks and

Recreation Director

Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau - The Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce is the lead agency responsible for

marketing the Frankenmuth area as a first class destination to visitors from all over the world. The Staff at the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce will

play an intricate role in marketing the Cass River Trail system to potential users through their unique network of community, regional, and State

partners. The Chamber’s Executive Director has volunteered to participate on this project.

Bridgeport Township Parks and Recreation - Bridgeport Township has also been involved with the Cass River Greenway since its inception. Recognizing

the Cass River as an asset, the Township has been active in developing access points along the Cass River, as well as playing host to events that

showcase the historical significance of the river. The Township has indicated its desire to further develop access and recreational opportunities in their

most current Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Bridgeport Township has dedicated the Township Parks and Recreation Director to assist with this

project.

Frankenmuth River Place - Frankenmuth River Place was developed in 2001 along the riverbank of the Cass River. A destination location offering visitors

a variety of experiences and amenities, a public dock was installed to further enhance access to the river. The public dock works hand in hand with a

local riverboat business to provide unique recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The Frankenmuth River Place also supports numerous

events that utilize the river including the Bavarian Inn Experience Triathlon, Volksläufe, Brückelaufe, the Tuscola to Frankenmuth Paddle & Swim, and

the Frankenmüdder obstacle course.

To help support this project, the Managing Partner of the Frankenmuth River Place has volunteered his time and effort.

Other support has been provided by:

Frankenmuth Community Foundation Saginaw Bay RC&D

National Parks Service Saginaw Area Stormwater Authority

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge Tuscola Conservation District

City of Saginaw Saginaw and Tuscola County Road Commissions

Saginaw County Parks and Recreation UM Flint - Community Outreach

I-69 Thumb Region Saginaw Watershed initiative Network

Tuscola Township Saginaw County Conservation District

US Fish and Wildlife Service Saginaw County Conservation District

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Section 4 – Sustainability Linkages and Goals

Describe the project’s goals and how you will measure whether it has achieved those goals.

The overall goal of the public information aspect of our project is to develop accessible and understandable water trail information, including details for

identifying access and trail routes; cultural, historic, and natural features; hazards; and water quality. It is our intent that the water trail will be

promoted to the community and a broad national and worldwide audience.

Once the different deliverables have been completed, the sub-committee will be able to measure our success with the following metrics;

Number of website hits

General observation of visitor use of water trail

Feedback from web site visitors and requested information

Economic Goal

The Cass River Greenway Committee has done a great job with establishing the infrastructure necessary to make the Cass River accessible and is now

focusing its efforts on making the Cass River a regional destination for water sports and outdoor enthusiasts. To accomplish this goal, the sub-

committee is seeking the NPS’s National Water Trail Designation. The group feels that utilizing the criteria presented in the National Water Trail

Designation program as a framework to compare ourselves to, we can create a world class river trail that will benefit the adjoining communities.

Community or Social Goal

Each community participating in the Cass River Greenway Committee has an established Parks and Recreation Department that is focused not only on

providing high quality parks, but includes the development of health and wellness activities to encourage residents to be more active in their day to day

lives. The National Park and Recreation Association describes parks as the place residents go to get healthy and fit, and that the recreation programs

offered by municipal parks departments are a significant contributor to the health of children, youth, adults, and seniors. By working with the Cass River

Greenway Committee, the National Park Service will be directly working with several municipal organizations that have made health and wellness part

of their core mission in the absence an abundance of for profit and not for profit health and wellness organizations.

The Cass River also supports several major events that are organized by health conscious organizations that are designed to promote healthy parks and

healthy people. Sections of the river in the City of Frankenmuth host several events such as annual triathlons, Volksläufe, Brückelaufe, the Tuscola to

Frankenmuth Paddle & Swim, and the Frankenmüdder obstacle course. Each event pushes participants to utilize local resources, such as parks or

recreation programs offered through a Parks Department, to be as fit as possible in order to complete the event.

Environmental Goal

The Cass River Greenway Committee has been a local leader in the conservation and stewardship of the natural landscape along the Cass River. Because

of their efforts many environmental issues and concerns are currently being addressed, resulting in an improvement in water and land quality. For

example, the Cass River Greenway Committee has developed an aggressive phragmites control program that has treated roadways in 14 townships since

its inception in 2010. Because of this control program, very little phragmite growth can be found along the Cass River riverbanks.

The Cass River Greenway committee also organizes annual river clean up events and coordinates the work of partner agencies in preservation activities

along the river bank. Since 2009, the group has cleaned over 35 miles of Cass River riverbank. The group is also responsible for installing tree revetments

along eroding riverbanks to further protect the river’s natural ecology. In 2015, the group installed 1,000 feet of double tree revetments with 2,000 feet

planned for 2016.

To further protect the Cass River, the Cass River Greenway Committee has invested in several different mediums to communicate to users the need to

preserve and protect the river. At access sites along the river, signs have been developed that communicate to users the principles of leaving no trace

behind and how they can be conservationist while enjoying the river.

Shiawassee National Wildlife

Refuge

Vassar State Game Area

Tuscola

Bridgeport

Saginaw

Memorial Park Boat

Launch

Beyer RoadBridge

Hoffman Community

ParkDavis Park

M-13 Cass River Boat

Launch

37.5 Miles Total Length AVERAGE PADDLE TIME2-3 Miles Per Hour

M-46 Bridge Mile 0 - Start of Water Trail

Caine Road Bridge Mile 2

Riverside Park/ Campground Mile 6

Downtown Vassar Mile 6.3

Downtown Frankenmuth Mile 18

Beyer Road Bridge Mile 20

Hoffman Community Park Mile 24

Davis Park Mile 28.4

SEC 1. M-46 TO VASSAR 6.3 Mi SEC 3. TUSCOLA TO FRANKENMUTH 5 Mi

SEC 4. FRANKENMUTH OUT & BACK 1.5 Mi

SEC 5. FRANK. TO BRIDGEPORT 10.4 Mi

SEC 6. BRIDGEPORT TO M-13 5.6 Mi

SEC 7. M-13 TO WICKES PARK 3.5 Mi

Developed Access Mobility Impaired Developed Access Carry-In Access Alternative Access

SEC 2. VASSAR TO TUSCOLA 5.7 Mi

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Please be advised The Cass River Water Trail is beginner friendly and is suitable for inexperienced paddlers except where otherwise noted. Please refer to section maps before paddling to be advised of any hazards, intermediate skills areas, or portages.

This paddle is a 1.5 mile roundtrip from Memorial Park Boat Launch or Heritage Park to Main Street Bridge and back.Downtown Vassar Mile 6.3

Tuscola Township Mile 12

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FrankenmuthDowntown

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Tuscola Township Mile 12

Memorial Park Boat Launch Mile 17

Heritage Park Mile 17

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THECASS RIVERWATER TRAIL

The Cass River Water Trail features a variety of natural, rural, and small town recreational experiences over 37.5 miles of scenic waterway in Michigan’s Thumb region. N

M-46Bridge

Caine RoadBridge

Riverside Park /Campground

DowntownVassar

Tuscola Township

Saginaw CountyTuscola County

Davis Park Mile 28.4

M-13 Cass River Boat Launch Mile 34

M-13 Cass River Boat Launch Mile 34

Wickes Park Mile 37.5

End of Water Trail

Plan your water trail adventure at cassriver.org/watertrail

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GRANT APPLICATION FORM Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network P.O. Box 734 Bay City, MI 48707

Please answer the following questions in the space provided. You may include a one-page attachment. When completed, your application packet should not exceed four pages. Send your completed form electronically to info@saginawbaywin.org and mail a signed, hard copy to Saginaw Bay WIN, P.O. Box 734, Bay City, MI 48707. Proposals may be submitted at any time. If you have questions, please call (989) 892-9171.

Office Use: Application #_________________ Ag/P2 Water Communication Wildlife Land Use Other________________________

SECTION 1 - GENERAL

Project Name Sponsoring Organization / Local Champion Is the sponsor a 501(c)(3) organization?

Yes No Name & Position of Contact Person Address City

State Zip

Phone

Fax

Email Amount Requested

Project Start Date Project End Date Geographic Area Served

SECTION 2 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Please describe the project. How is it innovative? What need(s) does it address? Is there a relationship between this project and other programs/projects occurring in the watershed?

SECTION 3 – COLLABORATING ORGANIZATIONS

What other organizations are participating in this project and what are their roles?

SECTION 4 – SUSTAINABILITY LINKAGES AND GOALS

Describe the project’s goals and how you will measure whether it has achieved those goals. Economic goals: Community or social goals: Environmental goals:

SECTION 5 – RELATIONSHIP TO WIN OBJECTIVES

Describe how the project fits with WIN’s Vision, Mission and Guiding Principals.

SECTION 6 – RESULTS

What tangible results do you expect from the project and how will you measure them?

SECTION 7 – COMMUNICATION

How do you plan to communicate your project to the public and/or your intended audience?

SECTION 8 – BUDGET

Total Budget WIN Funds Personnel Expenses (briefly describe)

Material and Supply Expenses (briefly describe)

Equipment Expenses (briefly describe)

Communication/Marketing Expenses (briefly describe)

Other Expenses (briefly describe)

Total Project Cost

Funds Requested from WIN

What funds have already been obtained for this project? (describe sources)

How do you plan to finance the portion not funded by WIN? Have you contacted the community foundation in the area most directly benefited by your project? If yes, with what result? Is this an on-going project? If yes, how will funding be continued?

SECTION 9 – CERTIFICATION

Our governing board approves the submission of this grant request. I certify that the information contained herein is accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Authorized Signature Date

Print Name and Title

South Riverfront Restoration – Goals

Environmental Goals: Re-purpose blighted property so that it enhances flood water management,

excavates remaining earthwork and restores the site to a more natural habitat.

MEASURE: Has the investment improved flood water management and restored the

site to a more natural habitat?

Community & Social Goals: Enhance Downtown Midland by creating another community gathering space that

emphasizes nature, social interaction, education and recreation.

MEASURE: Are community members utilizing the new trails & new waterway

entrances?

Economic Goals: Create added value to existing rail trails and natural waterways by transforming a

currently underutilized private property into a natural, low- maintenance public

space that provides access to Midland’s wildlife and natural amenities.

Catalyze future economic growth on the riverfront, as well as in the surrounding

Downtown District.

MEASURE: Has there been an increased number of trail users?

GRANT APPLICATION FORM Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network P.O. Box 734 Bay City, MI 48707

Please answer the following questions in the space provided. You may include a one-page attachment. When completed, your application packet should not exceed four pages. Send your completed form electronically to info@saginawbaywin.org and mail a signed, hard copy to Saginaw Bay WIN, P.O. Box 734, Bay City, MI 48707. Proposals may be submitted at any time. If you have questions, please call (989) 892-9171. SECTION 1 - GENERAL Project Name Cedar River Watershed Sediment Reduction Sponsoring Organization / Local Champion Saginaw Bay RC&D

Is the sponsor a 501(c)(3) organization? X Yes No

Name & Position of Contact Person Jim Hergott Executive Director Address 229 E Cedar St. PO Box393 City Standish

State Mi

Zip 48658

Phone 989-718-3260

Fax n/a

Email saginawbay@aol.com

Amount Requested 37,360

Project Start Date June 2017

Project End Date June 2019

Geographic Area Served Cedar River Watershed / Clare and Gladwin counties

SECTION 2 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION Please describe the project. How is it innovative? What need(s) does it address? Is there a relationship between this project and other programs/projects occurring in the watershed? The Cedar River Watershed (CRW) is located in north‐central Michigan, crossing parts of Clare and Gladwin Counties. The system is a tributary to the Tittabawassee River and eventually flows into Saginaw Bay (Lake Huron) and is between Interstate 75 to the east and US‐27 to the west. This ease of access has contributed to a large group of weekend users. The Cedar River Watershed is a 120,000 acre watershed located primarily in Gladwin County and is a tributary to the Tobacco River. The northern portion of the river is the only state designated cold water fishery and blue ribbon quality trout stream in the Saginaw Bay Watershed, while the southern portion is a warm water fishery. The Gladwin Conservation District performed two stream bank erosion inventories, an agricultural land use inventory and cooperated with the Clare Conservation District to perform a watershed wide road‐stream crossing inventory during the late 1990’s. The inventories showed there were 140 erosion sites along the Cedar River, 59 road stream crossings that are impacting the quality of the system. In 2011 with the help of Little Forks Land Conservancy and U of M Flint Outreach an updated Cedar River Watershed Management Plan was approved under the CMI administrative rules. This update affirmed and detailed in depth known sources of the number one pollutant to Saginaw Bay: sediment. Due to the high quality of the resources found within the watershed, it supports a very diverse recreational base. Recently the Mershon Chapter of Trout Unlimited conducted field analysis of fishery habitats on the North Branch of the river in relation to various fishery aspects of the system including spawning and loafing areas. These uses include: canoeing, fishing, hiking, trapping, hunting, boating, skiing and wildlife watching. The overall high quality of the water is an attribute worth protecting. The designated use of cold‐water fishery is of concern due to sediment currently entering the system. Sediment reduces natural bedding areas of reproducing trout. Sedimentation and sediment transport within a riverine system can have a detrimental impact on local trout populations. The sources of sediment in the Cedar River Watershed include eroding stream banks and unimproved road stream crossings. During the update process in 2010, several community members and organizations rallied in support of the Cedar River. The purpose of the Cedar River Task Force (CRTF) is to implement the Cedar River Watershed Management Plan. The Task Force seeks to restore water quality of the Cedar River so it meets all of the State of Michigan’s designated uses. The Cedar River Task Force is a volunteer ad-hoc committee that met as-needed during the course of the watershed management plan update in 2010. As the watershed management plan update came to a close, the Task Force decided to formalize a structure to steward the implementation of the watershed management plan. The Task Force has representation from Gladwin Conservation District, and Clare Conservation District. In addition to the five core members of the steering committee, associate members from the USDANRCS, Trout Unlimited, Health Department, Little Forks Conservancy, and MSU Extension. The Task for has been working since on several smaller projects involving sediment reduction and further study to focus activity and spend resources wisely. The Task Force in cooperation with Huron Pines recently held a Road Stream Crossing training session at the Clare County Road Commission. This training session is part of a Huron Pines project currently funded by WIN to replace a blown dam and provide outreach about the impacts of sediment in the Cedar Watershed. The project purposes to heighten awareness of Cedar River, and assist in the CRTF in the goal of implementing the watershed management by installing BMPs at one road stream crossing (Stockwell Road) on the middle branch and installing 1,000 feet of streambank stabilization techniques favorable to the site.

Office Use: Application #_________________ Ag/P2 Water Communication Wildlife Land Use Other________________________

SECTION 3 – COLLABORATING ORGANIZATIONS What other organizations are participating in this project and what are their roles? Cedar River Task Force comprised of groups and organizations represented below, meet monthly to discuss activity and guides the work / Gladwin and Clare CDs members on committee provide resources as possible / Gladwin and Clare Road Commissions members on committee provide input, direction and personnel resources on road stream crossing projects / Trout Unlimited members participate in committee complete study work, raise funds and install projects /Little Forks Land Conservancy

SECTION 4 – SUSTAINABILITY LINKAGES AND GOALS Describe the project’s goals and how you will measure whether it has achieved those goals. Economic goals: These sites continue to erode causing offsite damage to quality cold water fisheries, causing less recreational time and finances to be spent in the region and the need then to address this material someplace else in the system (off site). Estimates range from 7-10 per cubic yard to remove this material once it enters the system. Based upon averages over 1,000 cubic yards of material will be kept from entering the system annually. In today’s dollars that is savings of $7-$10,000 annually. Economically this type of road crossing is not high priority to road commissions in relation to typical protocol, by leveraging dollars this project can be incorporated into annual work plans. This can lead to increased recreational use Community or social goals: Perception is everything. The high quality of the resource base is one of the reasons the public flocks to this area and many call it home. By establishing new relationships with road commissions and others we can reach out to the general public making them aware issues in the watershed and some of the ways they can HELP (Honor, Enjoy, Love, Protect). Environmental goals: Stabilize site to reduce sediment loading which covers valuable spawning habitat in a quality trout stream. Additional sediment changes course of waterway leading to erosion and sedimentation causing continued and/or compounded problems. Using standard soil loss estimates over 275 tons (1,000 cubic yards) of sediment will be kept from entering the system on an annual basis by installing these projects. To picture it an average dump truck might hold 15 cubic yards so to handle this material would take over 65 dump truck loads. SECTION 5 – RELATIONSHIP TO WIN OBJECTIVES Describe how the project fits with WIN’s Vision, Mission and Guiding Principals. Vision-As stewards of the Saginaw Bay watershed, the Saginaw Bay RC&D advocates a vision of “Recreation through Conservation”. As such our work focuses on working with local land managers to improve the quality of life in our community the “Saginaw Bay Watershed”. Each project considers economic, environmental and social priorities to enhance quality of life for this and future generations. Local conservations district carry this same stewardship ethic as well as many other members of the Task Force. Mission- Our Mission is to provide technical advice and leadership to community partners to help them meet conservation and development goals. The purpose of the RC&D program is to encourage and improve the capability of volunteers and others to plan and carry out projects for resource conservation and community development. The Saginaw Bay has many local partners who are the backbone of success. Local people not only know there are the best they are the ones who are the care takers in their communities. These groups give us the opportunity to enhance understanding of sustainability, connecting people, resources, organizations and programs through regional networks of local projects. Guiding Principles- as our name indicates Saginaw Bay Resource Conservation and Development Area we are about working to conserve and at the same time develop our resources with a focus on natural resources. For this project many ecological benefits resulting from reduced sedimentation like improved stream health leading to improved habitat and the reduction of unpleasant visual aspects of erosion can be accomplished. Erosion looks ugly and is not an acceptable use of land or infrastructure. Finding like-minded individuals groups and organizations has always been the key to helping us “Celebrate Success in the Saginaw Bay and its Watershed.

SECTION 6 – RESULTS What tangible results do you expect from the project and how will you measure them? One Road stream Crossing (Stockwell Rd) addressing direct sedimentation to the Cedar River and 1,000 feet of streambank will receive treatment (whole tree revetment) to reduce sediment to system. Photo document before, during and after will assist in providing outreach and education. Current soil loss estimates result in over 275 tons of sediment will be kept from entering the waterway. The streambank erosion inventory (1999) will be reviewed and updated as several of the high priority sites have been remediated.

SECTION 7 – COMMUNICATION

How do you plan to communicate your project to the public and/or your intended audience? Sites will be photo documented from start to finish with a minimum of one press release on road stream crossings and one on streambank stabilization to inform the general public of activity of Cedar River Task Force. In addition Conservation District and RC&D Social Media (3 sites) will be used to promote the projects. This information can also be put into power point for presentation at annual meetings of various groups and users

SECTION 8 – BUDGET Total Budget WIN Funds Personnel Expenses (briefly describe) Road commission 18,095 install bmps Saginaw Bay RC&D Tree Revetment Technical Assistance and Grant Management

23,095 5,000

Material and Supply Expenses (briefly describe) Road Crossing BMPs $14,960 Anchors for tree revetments $2,400

17,360 17,360

Equipment Expenses (briefly describe)

Communication/Marketing Expenses (briefly describe)

Other Expenses (briefly describe) Contractor cut haul and install 1,000 feet tree revetment 15,000 Permits 300 / 200 donated trees 8,000

23,300 15,000

Total Project Cost

63,755

Funds Requested from WIN

37,360

What funds have already been obtained for this project? (describe sources) Clare County Road Commission committed to labor to install road crossing BMPs. Landowner committed to donating trees for streambank

How do you plan to finance the portion not funded by WIN? Landowners of tree revetment sites will be asked to pay permit fee ($100) Martuch Chapter of Trout Unlimited will be contacted to determine role potential volunteers to install tree revetments and/or monetary contributions. Have you contacted the community foundation in the area most directly benefited by your project? If yes, with what result? We intend to approach the community foundation in their next funding round for support. Is this an on-going project? If yes, how will funding be continued? There will always be work of this kind to be completed. By starting with success it has been proven time and again that once others of like mind are aware of the projects support will grow. This is evidenced in the Cass and Rifle River watersheds currently. SECTION 9 – CERTIFICATION

Our governing board approves the submission of this grant request. I certify that the information contained herein is accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Authorized Signature Date

Print Name and Title