The City of Manitowoc has partnered with Woodland Dunes Nature Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service and LaMahieu Tree Service to improve the Maritime Drive Bluff which is located between N. Lake Street and N. 4th Street and Maritime Drive. Local residents have been concerned with loss of view of the lake as trees have grown on the site and the erosion of the bank. There is also concern about large trees falling causing side slopes to slump and block Maritime Drive. The goal is to improve the site in terms of quality of habitat, stabilization of soils and aesthetic value.
This site has great potential for ecological and aesthetic restoration. The shoreline of Lake Michigan is a significant corridor for the seasonal movements of migratory birds. Songbirds need adequate areas in which to rest and feed during migration – if not they may arrive at their nesting or wintering areas in a weakened condition, which can contribute to an overall decline in populations of long-distance migrants. Encouraging high quality natural areas along the Lakeshore can improve the quality of life for both wildlife and people.
Due to the size of the site, specific areas will be selected for the initial restoration. Expansion to additional areas would be planned in the future. The plan for the selected areas is to remove large trees which are or might contribute to erosion or roadway problems. Appropriate trees and plants that are native to this region, are appropriate to physical conditions on the site (soil, sunlight, slope and aspect, and hydrology), are aesthetically desirable and valuable to migratory birds and other wildlife (producing seeds or fruit or cover or a combination of the three) will be planted. Planting a variety of deep-rooted native species will add diversity to the site and also help to reduce erosion and stabilize the bank.
Restoration is scheduled to begin later this week and should be completed by July 27, 2018. For further information go to www.manitowoc.com and go to the Parks and Forestry page or call the Parks Division at 920-686-3580.
Sign up for News Flash and/or Emergency Alert texts or e-mails about activities in the City by going to www.manitowoc.org. Click on the Notify Me button and follow the instructions.