Since 2004, volunteers have monitored streams throughout the Northern Lower Peninsula, covering 16 different streams. Volunteers wade into local streams to collect a water sample, temperature, and most importantly macroinvertebrates. These little bugs can only survive in certain water conditions. Therefore their mere presence (or absence) serves as an indicator of water quality.
The Watershed Council has coordinated and sponsored the Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program since 1986. Presently, volunteers monitor 27 lakes spread throughout Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, and Montmorency Counties. The objectives of the program are to collect baseline data, characterize lake ecosystems, identify specific water quality problems, determine water quality trends, and, most importantly, inform and educate the public regarding water quality issues and aquatic ecology.
The Comprehensive Water Quality Monitoring Program was launched by Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council in 1987. Typically, data for nine parameters (temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, clarity, total phosphorous, total nitrogen, nitrate-nitrogen, and chloride) are collected at the surface, middle and bottom of the water column in each water body.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, we organized an annual clean-up on the Bear River. This turned into the Clean Waters Challenge to allow for social distancing.
Our Mobile Boat Washing Station (MOBO) Program was started in Northern Michigan in 2020. We use high-pressure, heated water to wash invasive plants and animals off boats and trailers.
The Bay View Association (BVA) of The United Methodist Church is a National Historic Landmark community founded in 1875. It is situated on 337 acres and is home to more than 30 public buildings, nearly 450 cottages and two inns. Stormwater has long been an issue in the community as evidenced by seasonal flooding of homes and eroding hillsides.
Campus stormwater was not being filtered properly causing excess nutrients and sediment from campus stormwater.
The lower section of Tannery Creek was one of the most impaired systems in Northern Michigan. Improvements included removal of the existing, undersized culvert and replacement with a timber bridge.
Every dollar invested in Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council helps leverage government and foundation grants for much needed local water quality monitoring and pollution prevention, invasive species management, shoreline restoration, education, and much more.
The Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Our employee identification number (EIN) is 38-2361745.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information herein; however, it cannot be guaranteed.
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