eMacomb - Progress Through Partnerships, Fall 2013

County Awarded Highest Honor

Keep Michigan Beautiful President's Plaque

In late October, the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development accepted the President’s Plaque from Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc. for its involvement in the coastal wetland restoration project at Lake St. Clair Metropark.

The President’s Plaque is the highest honor bestowed annually to a government, community, school, business or organization in recognition of their efforts to substantially contribute to environmental improvement, clean up, beautification, site restoration or historical preservation.

The winning project was the restoration of an imperiled ecosystem that had been degraded by hydrological manipulation, sediment accumulation and invasive species infestation.

Focused mainly on the Point Rosa marsh complex, the project included restoring habitat, improving hydrological condition and engaging the public through educational programming. The most noticeable improvement has been the addition of a boardwalk which allows park visitors greater opportunity to experience the natural flora and fauna of this important coastal wetland.

The project was tackled collaboratively by multiple stakeholders including the Huron-Clinton Metropark Authority, Clinton River Watershed Council, Wayne State University, ASTI Environmental, Hamilton Anderson Associates, Applied Science Inc., Stante Excavating, Inland Lakes and Kyle Builders.

Gerard Santoro, program manager for land and water resources for the department, accepted the award on behalf of the county.

“As part of our overall strategic plan to enhance the Macomb County Blue Economy, this project provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to get a glimpse of how our Lake St. Clair shoreline looked many years ago,” he said.