Ecorse Creek Watershed Support
In the early 2000’s, Friends of the Detroit River (FDR) worked with the Alliance of Downriver Watersheds (ADW) in developing and implementing the Ecorse Creek Watershed Management Plan (WMP). FDR continues to work with the ADW and the newly formed Ecorse Creek Committee to further assist with efforts to identify and implement ecological improvement projects.
In 2023, FDR engaged with Ecorse Creek Communities to identify Potential Project Locations on the North and South branches of Ecorse Creek. Ideal sites will:
have willing landowners with ownership identified
be contiguous with the Creek and within 1,000 feet of the stream bank or hydrologically connected tributary
align with, at least one, of the following Ecorse Creek Watershed Management Plan (WMP) priorities:
Reduce Flooding
Reduce Stream Flow Variability
Watershed Management Sustainability
Improve Water Quality
Protect, Enhance, and Restore Riparian and In-Stream Habitat
Preserve, Increase, and Enhance Recreational Opportunities
Protect Public Health
Increase Public Education, Understanding, and Participation Regarding Watershed Issues
be in communities impacted by environmental justice issues
In total, this project identified 91 potential locations that can be used for ecological restoration that would help mitigate future flood events, enhance habitat, and increase access to recreation. To view the 91 locations, click the Story Map button below.
In 2024, FDR will work with stakeholders to prioritize the list of Potential Project Locations. Under this project, the weighted ranking criteria will be finalized and sites will be scored based on relative impact to communities. For more information, see How You Can Get Involved below. Looking forward, funding opportunities will be sought out to support project construction.
To learn more about the Ecorse Creek Support effort, watch this video recording.
How You Can Get Involved
Attend the Ecorse Creek Committee Meetings
The Ecorse Creek Committee meets virtually on the third Thursday of every month at 3:30 pm EST. Meetings are open to the public. If you would like to attend, or have any questions, please email McKenzi Waliczek at mwaliczek@detroitriver.org. For more information on protecting your watershed, visit the Alliance of Downriver Watersheds website.
Participate, or host, a cleanup on the Ecorse Creek
The Ecorse Creek Committee hosts cleanups on the creek in the warmer months in participating locations of Ecorse, Lincoln Park, and Wyandotte. The committee is always looking for volunteers and wants to expand cleanup efforts in new locations. If you’d like information on the 2024 Cleanup Season, email Jody DeMeyere at jody_demeyere@fws.gov or McKenzi Waliczek at mwaliczek@detroitriver.org. Check back in Spring 2024 to see cleanup details, dates, and how to register.
