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Kayaking the Grand with GR Paddling

We love the work our friends over at GR Paddling do!

Thanks to Fox 17, you can read about how GR Paddling and Grand Rapids Whitewater go together. We’re striving to restore the Grand to its natural state, all while making sure that conservation efforts are kept in line so the river will remain clean for everyone to enjoy.

“The efforts to improve the Grand River’s water quality are a shining example of the types of wildlife conservation and management that will ensure the state’s forests, waters, and wildlife are protected and preserved for generations to come.”

Project: Upper Reach

Area: Ann Street to Leonard Street

To protect the Grand River from invasive species, a new barrier will be installed. The Great Lakes Fishery Commission is leading the review of several options and locations, including an Adjustable Hydraulic Structure (which would look similar to this construction in Iowa).
Ann Street to Leonard Street

Reveal a Portion of the Limestone Bedrock

Project: Upper Reach

Area: Leonard Street to Sixth Street Dam

Removing the Sixth Street dam will expose a portion of the limestone bedrock that is currently submerged.
Leonard Street to Sixth Street Dam

Remove Aging Dams

Project: Upper and Lower Reach

Area: Sixth Street Dam to Pearl Street

Remove four low-head dams (Lower Reach). Remove Sixth Street dam (Upper Reach) after new lamprey barrier is complete.

Sixth Street Dam to Pearl Street

Project: Lower Reach

Area: Michigan Street to Fulton Street

Install rocks and boulders to create new wave and riffle features.

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