Huron Pines finishes timber bridge on Gilchrist Creek

MONTMORENCY COUNTY, Mich. — Conservation group Huron Pines has finished a new timber bridge where Harwood Road meets Gilchrist Creek southeast of Atlanta.

The bridge replaces a set of three culverts that were causing problems in the area. They constricted water flow resulting in frequent flooding, harmful sediment washing into the stream, and, because of the fast current, trout and other fish species were unable to reach the upstream habitat.

This new 32-foot bridge will allow the creek to flow naturally under the road. “These are the types of projects we do across Northeast Michigan to help improve the connectivity of the river system while also reducing sediment, making the crossing safer and reducing maintenance costs for the road commission as well,” said Associate Director of Huron Pines, Lisha Ramsdell.

Huron Pines has two more planned bridge replacements for Gilchrist Creek and another one planned for Hunt Creek near the same area. These upgrades will ensure waterways remain healthy as well as improve road safety.