Help Us Make the River Safe Again
April’s historic rains and flooding have created many blockages in the river that make navigation difficult if not impossible. When the extent of the damage caused by these recent floods became apparent Anglers of The Au Sable (AOTA) and MGFTU took decided to work together to mitigate the flood damage and expedite recovery efforts. Each organization will tackle specific reaches of the Au Sable to offer systemic coverage to the post-flood river. First, the river needs to be made safe for river users. Second, a survey will be needed to determine the status of trout habitat in the river. Finally, we will develop action plans for specific sections of the Au Sable.
Work is already underway. Within days of approval, a crew began removing blockages in the stream to ensure safe passage. The crew has made significant progress, making navigation possible on both the mainstream down from Burtons and the South Branch below Chase Bridge. These efforts will continue until all blockages are cleared across all navigable sections of river.
Once the water levels recede, the partners are planning to do surveys to determine the status of fish habitat within the river. Both have postponed the restoration work planned for this year. Instead, focus will be on restoring existing fish habitat impacted by the flood. Significant work will be needed to make the river the best trout fishery it can be. Once plans are in place, permits are needed to conduct restoration work, and these can take months to receive. Regardless of this enormous task, the AOTA and MGFTU are committed to seeing this effort completed. First, we ask for your patience. This will be an expensive and lengthy process. Second, we need your help. Please consider a donation to both organizations to assist in this river restoration effort.
Donations to MGFTU can be made by sending a check to P.O. Box 502, Grayling, MI 49738 or online at: masongriffithtu.org.
Donations can be made to the Anglers of the AuSable by sending a check to P.O. Box 200, Grayling, MI 49738 or donate online at: https://ausableanglers.org/support-the-river/