A watershed is an area of land where all water within it flows to a common outlet. This includes all streams, rivers, lakes and wetlands, as well as rainfall and snowmelt.

The Thunder Bay Watershed in northeast Michigan is a rural region characterized by expansive forests, wetlands, lakes and streams. It encompasses 1,382 square miles and empties into Lake Huron in Alpena. The sustainability of its freshwater resources is threatened by development, land use, climate change, pollution and other pressures.

A watershed management plan identifies these pressures and provides a framework for protecting surface water and groundwater within the watershed. It is a guiding document for conservation groups, state & federal agencies, local governments and communities to prioritize and implement high impact projects. The goal of a watershed management plan is to protect and enhance a watershed to have healthy, resilient ecosystems and vibrant communities.

We're conducting a social survey to understand how people who recreate in the watershed view issues around water quality. Whether you fish, kayak, hike, birdwatch or engage in other outdoor activities, your input is important to us. The survey takes less than 5 minutes to complete.

If you have questions, please contact Maddie Khuri, maddie@huronpines.org or (989)448-2293 ext.17.