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City of Grand Haven Coastal Master Plan COASTAL ZO`NE r4 ~~~~~~~~~~~INFORMATION CENTER HT 393 4 ~.M5 Iln C58 1984 City of Grand Haven HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN OCTOBER, 1984 Prepared For: City of Grand Haven Prepared By: Ayres, Lewis, Norris & May, Inc. Engineers - Architects - Planners 3983 Research Park Drive Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 Administered By: Division of Land Resource Programs Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources The preparation of this report was financed in part through a grant provided by the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin- istration, as authorized under the __ U. S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOA Coastal Zone Management Act of COASTAL SERVICES CENTER 1972 and administered by the 2934 SOUTHrHOBSON AVENUE Michigan Department of Natural Resources Division of Land Re- ;',_'LESTON, SC 294052413 sources Programs. Prop&rty of CSC Library Plan Participants Harbor Island Master Plan Committee Norm Spring, Chairman William Lee Rodgers Lisa vonOettingen Hank Grashuis Richard Swiftney Michael Snodgrass Willard Klapthor Lynne Kinkema Chuck Yonker William Bedford Emergy Holzinger Department of Natural Resources Michael Kessler, Project Representative Charles Wolverton, Grand Rapids District City of Grand Haven Larry Deetjen, City Manager Doug Thomas, Assistant City Manager Jerry Lambert, Director of Parks Consultants Ayres, Lewis, Norris & May, Inc. Engineers - Architects - Planners 3983 Research Park Drive Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 (313) 761-1010 Harbor Island TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE I IN"TRO~DUCTION ............. .......o.......*0*O.1-4 Purpose..........................I Objectives ....................... Planning Process......................2 Harbor Island Coastal Area Profile .............3 11 INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS OF HARBOR ISLAND .. ..... 5-22 Natural Resources . ................ ....5 Physical Resources.... ................I 12 Physiographic and Cultural Units.. . .......... . 17 Development Capability.. . . ...............19 Preliminary Concept Plan . ............. ....21 III HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN ................23-39 Description of the Plan Components Alternative No. I....................26 Alternative No. 2....................33 Implementation Program . ................ 35 IV APPENDICES 0 0 0 9 0 S 0 ~~~~~~Introduction INTRODUCTION PURPOSE In 1984, the City of Grand Haven received funds from the Michigan Coastal Zone Management Program to conduct a study of Harbor Island. While the previous coastal studies have concentrated on the downtown areas, the Harbor Island area has not previously been studied in detail. The purpose of this study will be to analyze the Harbor Island coastal area, explore alternative design schemes, develop site designs, and explore implementation programs. OBJECTIVES Given the overall purpose of the study, a detailed set of work objectives can be developed. The objectives are as follows: 1) Help encourage future development in private investments in the City of Grand Haven and complement other planning efforts that are underway in the City; 2) Provide a standard for future development and plans which will help guide the decisions of the community; 3) Consider improvements for the existing municipal boat launching ramp facility which is actively used and experiencing some deterioration of infra-structure; 4) Provide a basis for the City of Grand Haven to plan for future waterfront development and "linkage" to existing waterfront development projects; Harbor Island 5) Further enhance and develop public access along the City of Grand Haven's waterfront; 6) Determine estimated costs to undertake various public improvements on Harbor Island that will enhance its development for the long run; 7) Review the utilization of waste heat generated from the City's power plant. PLANNING PROCESS The planning process followed a three-step procedure which included: a) baseline studies; b) evaluation and interpretation; and c) master planning and community input. Detailed planning procedures are summarized in the accompanying diagram (Figure I). Harbor Island Master Plan Study Process ~iT::;~JTIONa ul Cultural ntiuional BASELINE Resource Resource onsiderations STUDIES Inventory b. Physiographic Planning Issues EVALUATION Units and Assumptions INTERPRETATION COMMUNITY INPUT C. Master MASTER PLANNING Planning & Otions COMMUNITY INPUT Final Master P Islan d 2 Harbor Island Background studies involved extensive data collection. Sources included previous- ly published data, contacts with experts familiar with Harbor Island, discussions with local officials and citizens. In addition to these sources, detailed conversa- tions with State and Federal agencies also transpired. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and its various divisions were the primary source of informa- tion. Other contacts include Army Corps of Engineers, and interest groups con- cerned with Harbor Island. The second step in the planning process included an evaluation and interpretation of the gathered data. The study area was classified according to natural resources. This procedure evaluated the opportunities and constraints of the island and played an important role in developing future management programs. The final step in the process involved master planning. Alternative design con- cepts were prepared in order to present a range of alternatives for the future use of Harbor Island. The concepts were evaluated and a final concept selected which provided a basic framework for the Master Plan. The final step was the develop- ment of the Master Plan including management strategies and an implementation program. HARBOR ISLAND COASTAL AREA PROFILE Grand Haven's Harbor Island encompasses approximately 140 acres and is located on the City's north side. It . is bounded by the Grand River to the west and north, US-31 to the east and the South Channel to the south. Primary access is from US-31 or via the Third Street Bridge. 3 Harbor Island S Current uses on this 140-acre island include a mixture of industrial recreational and vacant uses. The City of Grand Haven is the largest single property owner, however, other major land holders include the Grand Haven Board of Power and Light, Old Kent State Bank, and Shell Oil Company. The island has experienced an interesting history of land uses and functions. Dur- ing the early settlement of Grand Haven, portions of the island were used for fishing and shipbuilding. With the advent of the lumbering era, the island was used as a place to sort, stock, and prepare raw timber for transportation to other areas. The so called "boom" area or interior lagoon located on the island was used to collect logs floated downstream. Logs were funnelled into this area and then sorted for future shipping. Lumbering, fishing, and shipbuilding continued to be p important industries on the island until the early 1900s. In the early to mid 1900s, the island was used primarily for industrial purposes such as power plants, coal docks, and as a dump for city refuse. More recently, af recreation has become a major land use. The City's boat ramp and the newly con- structed Harborview Linear Park are bringing more visitors to the island and a greater appreciation of the island's assets and amenities have been noted. Today, Harbor Island has the potential for new development while preserving important resources. Industry, recreation, conservation, commercial, and residential are some possible uses which can be located on the island. However, these uses can also entail impacts to the environment of the island and character * of the island if not properly planned. It is the intent of this study to determine which of the above uses are most suitable for the island and determine how these prime coastal area resources can be wisely used. 4 Harbor Island S * II Inventory and *0 ~Analysis of Harbor Island INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS OF HARBOR ISLAND Prior to the development of site design and land use recommendations, an inven- tory and analysis of natural resources and physical resources is essential. Special emphasis will be given to determine the opportunities and constraints for future development. NATURAL RESOURCES An examination of natural features and systems is important aspect of the Plan. In many ways the natural systems will dictate which future uses can or cannot be accommodated on the island. A set of "environmental determinants" can be iden- tified for the island, as well as important biological processes currently taking place on the island. River Flow Characteristics/Hydraulics The Harbor Island area encompasses a portion of the Grand River estuary. It is one of the largest river basins in the Great Lakes and includes over 5500 square miles. The average daily discharge of Grand River is approximately 3500 cubic feet per second. Prior to reaching Harbor Island, the Grand River widens to about 3000 feet in width and includes many marshy relatively undis- turbed islands. As the river approaches Harbor Island the river narrows to approximately 500 feet. 5 Harbor Island The island itself and its configuration are greatly influenced by the water levels on Lake Michigan and the Grand River. Seasonal fluctuations are common and cyclical fluctuations of up to four feet are not unusual. As a result of these fluc- tuations, the shape and character of the shallow marshlands will vary. The inte- n rior lagoon or "boom" on the island is now mainly open water. However, as little as ten years ago, the "boom" was nearly completely vegetated with marsh species. Flooding is also a concern on many parts of the island. The Federal Emergency Management Administration has predicted that much of the island will be sub- merged in the event of a 100-year flood. Water Quality Water quality as reported by the MDNR for the Harbor Island area is generally rated as good. It has been determined to be fit for "partial body contact" and various agencies have reported that conditions have improved quite drastically * since river communities and industries have begun efforts to comply with water quality discharge standards. However, water quality in the area is still not con- sidered acceptable for beaches or direct river swimming. Soils Most of the study area consists of the remnants of low areas or wetlands that have been artifically filled and smoothed. Some filled areas may have non-soil mate- rials included with the fill as a result of use as a city dump. Non-filled soils of the study area are comprised of sands and clay deposited within a glacial lake bed. The Army Corps of Engineers diked disposal area includes dredged river bottom material. This material includes some pollutants derived from untreated or par- tially treated domestic and industrial wastes. 6 Harbor Island Vegetation Vegetative communities on Harbor Island will change in response to the wetness or dryness at the site. Three major zones of vegetation have been inventoried. These are emergent, and submergent vegetation, and upland-wooded. Typical species within these zones are listed in Figure 2. Emergent vegetation, particularly cattails, are the most photosynthetically productive group of macrophytes. Numerous beds of cattail are found in the Harbor Island wetlands, and the plant's long narrow leaves provide a large surface area for photosynthetic activity. Emergent vegetation is not consumed directly by most organisms because its high fiber content renders it difficult to digest and slow to decompose. However, seeds are consumed by waterfowl, and the vege- tation does provide excellent cover for waterfowl, fish, and other organisms. Figure 2 Typical Plant Species Harbor Island Pickeral weed Pontederia cordata Hybrid cattail Typha glauca Arrowhead Saggittaria latifolia Purple loose strife Lythrum salicaria Eastern cottonwood Populus deltoides Willows Salix spp Red ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica Red dogwood Cornus stolonifera Wild grape Vitis spp Gray dogwood Cornus racemosa 7 Harbor Island The productivity of submergent vegetation is highly variable, depending on local environmental conditions. Both provide prime habitat for macroinvertebrates. Floating-leaved plants are restricted to quiet, protected areas (such as the north- eastern corner of the "boom" and the Old Kent Pond. Submergent and floating leaved vegetation is important habitat for macroinvertebrates, which are a major food source for fish. Waterfowl also ingest macroinvertebrates, particularly dur- ing their breeding season, to help aid egg yolk formation. Submergent vegetation is also a major direct food source for waterfowl. Wetlands within the Harbor Island area produce detritus, which is a form of decayed organic matter. The material consists primarily of dead vegetative materials which are extenisvely colonized by bacteria and fungi. Detritus serves as the primary base for the food chain in wetlands, and numerous macroinverte- brates rely completely on it as their food source. In turn, macroinvertebrates are an important food source to fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. The diversity of macroinvertebrates is high in wetlands due to the variety of habitat available and large amount of detritus found there. Detritus feeds not only organisms residing in the wetlands but is also transported to nearshore areas of open water where it is utilized by organisms not generally associated with wetlands. There are no known rare or endangered plant species within the Harbor Island area. However, it is suspected that wild rice Zinzania aquatica is found on the island when water levels are lower than their present condition. Fish Species Lake Michigan and the Grand River support a diverse array of fish species which spawn, feed or utilize the Harbor Island areas. Some species migrate through the area as the seasons change and as they enter different periods in their life cycle. Others are found in the area year round. A typical list of species is found in Figure 3 and fish habitat preferences are noted in Figure 4. 8 Harbor Island Spawning grounds are particularly sensitive areas during the spawning season. However, it should be emphasized that it is difficult to identify any specific spawning or habitat area on Harbor Island because of the transitory nature of the island and fish movement. Fish spawning and habitat areas continually change depending upon seasonal fluctuations and water levels. In addition, fish move to different habitats during different periods of their life cycles for feeding or cover. Figure 3 Typical Fish Species Harbor Island Salmonoids Non-Salmonoids Coho Salmon Yellow Perch Chinook Salmon Walleye Steelhead Northern Pike Lake Trout Bluegill P Brown Trout Pumpkinseed Crappie Forage Species Largemouth Bass Carp Smallmouth Bass a Redhorse Sucker Catfish White Sucker Sunfish Dogfish Bullhead Bulkheading with backfill is one of the most destructive practices on fish produc- tivity. Bulkheading destroys the natural gradient of the lake bottom. Most of t Harbor Island is so shallow that small changes in water level may be evident in a ten to fifteen foot area. When bulkheads are constructed and the natural gradient is destroyed, water levels fluctuate a foot or two along a shear bulkhead wall. A portion of the habitat to fish is lost. Research into gabion structures to replace ) bulkheads has been proposed. Gabions are composed of large rocks and would 9 _ Harbor Island Figure 4 Spawning Requirements and Habitat Preferences of the Primary Sportsfish of Harbor Island Timing & Location Year Round (Y) Species of Spawning Feeding & Cover Migratory (M) Yellow Perch April-May, after Pike; throughout the area, Y spawn in shallow water especially channel fringes over submerged vegetation and marshes and brush Walleye April channels, marsh fringes, open lake M Northern Pike late May-April; protected bays, marshes Y sedge meadows (shallow marsh) Bass Largemouth mid-May to mid-June; marshes (in reeds & cattails, Y Smallmouth deep cattail marshes channel edges) Panf ish Bluegill late June, after Bass; throughout area (especially Y Pumpkinseed cattail marsh "shoreline" channel fringe & marshes) Crappie Salmonoids Brown Trout channels; spring and fall migrants; M Rainbow Trout Steelhead and Browns Chinook Salmon (stocked) more extended periods Coho Salmon Steelhead Splake X Lake Trout provide a more gentle transition between the land and water. The resulting habi- tat would be more favorable to fish than bulkheading. Dredging is not always harmful to fish. Dredging may provide fish access to inte- rior wetlands and provide for the exchange of nutrients. However, the benefits of the dredging have to be carefully weighed against the environmental costs associ- ated with increased turbidity and loss of habitat. Filling is typically more detri- mental in open water areas than in marshes if the sediments are unpolluted. Filling is typically more detrimental because it is most often proposed in shallow, marshy areas which are vegetated and utilized extensively by fish and waterfowl. Waterfowl and Terrestrial Life Shallow water feeding waterfowl such as mallards, pintails, and other dabbling ducks are commonly seen in the areas. Other species include a variety of song birds and predatory birds. Black-crowned night herrons have also been seen on the island. The island provides habitat for aquatic mammals, such as muskrat, mink, and weasel. Other urban mammals such as racoon, squirrel, mice, and rats are also common. There are no known rare or endangered species known to be living in the area. Wildlife users change with the fluctuation of water level. During periods of low water, the red-winged blackbird, short-billed marsh wren, mallard, blue-winged teal, and the muskrat are more common. Dabbling ducks may feed and breed near the remaining open water areas. During high water levels, wildlife diversity increases. Macroinvertebrates, amphi- bians, and reptiles may increase in abundance due to the increased availability of their preferred habitat (submergent vegetation in open water areas). They in turn are consumed by birds and some fish species. Harbor Island PHYSICAL RESOURCES Utilities and Services Harbor Island currently has very limited utilities which service the area. Water sanitary and electric services have been installed for the power plant but the remainder of the island is limited to electrical service. If more intensive development is proposed, water and sanitary service will have to be installed. Transportation and Circulation Access to Harbor Island is limited to US-31 from the north and/or the Third Street bridge from the south. The latter structure is a one-lane bridge with limited load capabilities. The bridge also forces drivers to make a sharp 900 turn on the north side. If more development does occur on the island, this bridge should be considered for replacement and better ingress and egress to U.S. 31 must be considered. In addition to the Third Street Bridge, improve- ments must also be made to Coho Drive. This road- way is built on a poor sub- base and the roadway has , settled in many areas. Motorists with boat trailers have complained that their vehicles have "bottomed __ out" on the road and motorists must often drive at speeds of less than 10 mph. Portions of the roadway to the west of the oil terminal are currently gravel and will have to be paved. 12 Harbor Island Finally, ingress and egress to US-31 may pose problems if more intensive develop- ment occurs on the island. The intersections and connecting roadways of Grand Isle [Drive are currently functioning properly. However, the intersections may pose problems during peak traffic conditions. Map I illustrates existing circula- tion patterns and concerns. Recreation Two major city recreation complexes are currently located on the island. .~ ~ These are the Harbor Is land ~' Linear Park and the City Municipal Boat Launching Romp. The linear park extends along the south perimeter of the power plant and incorporates facilities for fishing, picnicking, bicycle riding, and waterfront interpreta- tion. The City Boat Ramp includes six boat launching slips, vault toilets, and parking for approximately 100 vehicles and trailers. With the increasing popularity of fishing on Lake Michigan, the ramp has experienced intensive use. During peak weekends, cars are lined up for nearly a half-mile. Complaints have also been registered regarding poor circulation and traffic control near the ramp and diffi- cult launching or loading during rough water conditions. Existinmg Regulatory Authority A variety of federal, state, and local laws apply to the land use and water management of Harbor Island. The most important of these laws pertain to 13 Harbor Island Linear Park Extension City Bo0at Rampnf - -Possible' bike path -At capacity during peak weekends ~ .~,-Possible marsh boardwalk -Need for 100 more parking spaces -x-\ -Need for 6 additional ramps ~~ '/~~ '~~ -. ~Entry Zone I / ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~-First impression of city j ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Elevated view from bridge j ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~-Controlled north and south access -Safety -Visibility Coho Dr. c~~~~~~~~~~ -Poor road condition ~~~~~~j7~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~-Sub-base settling -1\ji 1/ ____ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-oor drainage f 7.,~~~ -~~-~-~~- CIRCULATION ANALYSIS HarborviewLinear rd t. BridgeCity of Grand Ha6ven Harborview Liear Park Thid St. Bridgeharbor island masstler plan -Fishing -One lane 4. LEWISai, NORRIS AND MAY, INC. -Bicycling -Poor alignment e~ngoine~ers architects planners -Picnicking -gcdturn on north side -Poor truck/trailer route 7 - " dredge and fill activities and local land use provisions. State regulatory programs are significant to land management of Harbor Island. Three statutes administered by the Department of Natural Resources; the Great Lakes Submerged Lands Act, the Shorelands Protection and Management Act and the Soil Erosion and Sedimen- tation Control Act are applicable to the island. The Great Lakes Submerged Lands Act (Act 247, P.A. 1955, as amended) was originally passed to clear title to unpatented Great Lakes' bottomlands filled prior to 1955 and to regulate filling of these bottomlands. The Act has been amended to regulate construction activities on both patented and unpatented bottomlands, convey marina leases, and allow the State to enter into agreements for the use of State-owned bottomlands. A listing of pertinent legislation and controls is listed in Figure 5. Land Use Existing land uses within the study area include a mixture of industrial recrea- tional and vacant uses. Primary land owners and their corresponding land use are listed in Figure 6. Figure 6 * City of Gramd Haven Hbor Island Land Ownership and Land Use Approximate Ownership Use Acreage Grand Haven Board of electric power plant 23.0 Power and Light coal yard, fly ash ponds, etc. Shell Oil Company oil storage tanks 6.0 D&M Dock vacant waterfront 2.0 Pierre Dubois vacant waterfront 0.5 Old Kent State Bank vacant wetland 20.0 City of Grand Haven U.S. Army Corps of Engrs 27.0 dredge disposal City of Grand Haven boat ramp 3.0 appxox. 100 car/trailer spaces City of Grand Haven "boom" area interior lagoon 40.0 City of Grand Haven misc. wetlands, roadways 20.0 and vacant properties City of Grand Haven Harbor Island Linear Park 2.0 Approximate Total Acreage 143.5 15 Harbor Island a * a a * . � a 9 Figure 5 Legislation Relating to Harbor Island Federal State Local Land & Water Management: Coastal Zone Management Act, Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Grand Haven building codes 1972 (16 USC 1452) (Act 347, P.A. 1970) & zoning ordinances National Flood Insurance Act, Shorelands Protection & Management, 1974 Flood Risk Areas (Act 245, P.A. 1970) Flood Disaster Protection Act Great Lakes Submerged Lands (Act 247, P.A. 1955, as amended) Dredqe & Fill: River and Harbor Act Great Lakes Submerged Lands (1 899) - Section I 0 (Act 247, P.A. 1955, as amended) Federal Water Pollution Control. Act, 1972, PL 92-500 - Section 404 Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 1934 + amendments Water Quality - Public Health: Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Public Health Code Ottawa County Board of Health 1972, PL 92-500, Sec. 201 (Act 368, P.A. 1978) & local Appeals Board, County Municipal WW Treatment Works Water Resources Commission Act Sanitary Code & Regulations NPDES Permits (administered (Act 245, P.A. 1929, amended by by MDNR, Water Quality Division) Act 118, P.A. 1972) Miscellaneous Legislation: Federal Refuse Act Solid Waste Management Act National Solid Waste Act (Act 641, P.A. 1 978) Endangered Species Act Endangered Species (PL 93-205) (Act 203, P.A. 1974) National Environmental Policy Act Michigan Environmental Protection Act 1969, (42 USC 4321-4327) (Act 127, P.A. 1970) Estuary Protection Act (16 USC 1244; 82 Stat 627) PHYSIOGRAPHIC AND CULTURAL UNITS The Harbor Island area and the Grand River estuary is a complex and dynamic ecosystem. Many portions of these wetlands are extremely important for the propagation of fish and wildlife while other areas are less sensitive and have been subjected to previous disturbance filling and dredging. It is the task of this section to classify various segments of Harbor Island into physiographic units which will help identify which portions of the island are more * environmentally sensitive than others. Land use recommendations can then be made which will associate compatible land uses with a particular portion of Har- bor Island. * The units divide Harbor Island into units of a comprehensible size with unique characteristics and present a basis for the development of the master plan. The area has been broken down into four physiographic units and Map 2 illustrates the various units: Unit I - Emergent Wetland: These areas are wet during much of the year and are colonized by cattails, arrowhead and associated species. Water depth varies from ground level to two feet deep. Biological- S ly, it is one of the most productive zones on the island. Unit 2 - Submergent Wetland: These areas include wet interior, lagoons, ponds, and marshes. Water levels rarely exceed four feet and are * colonized by floating leaved or deep submergent vegetation. These areas provide habitat for fish, waterfowl and macroinvertebrates. Unit 3 - Upland Wooded: These areas include relatively dry grasses, shrubs, and hardwoods. These areas are less sensitive to develop- ment pressures. Unit 4 - Man-Altered: These areas have been disturbed, dredged or filled and have been drastically modified by man. Of all areas on the island, they are most capable of supporting intensive development. 17 Harbor Island A ii~~~~~~~~~ II ~~~~~~~Legend i i / ' I f I - L . L J ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Emergent Wet land ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Sbrgni Wetland I FL31 Upland-Wooded I' k EAZ ~~~~~~~~~~Man Altered PHYSIOGRAPHIC UNITS \~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ct of Grn HaVen harorislndmasteLr plan E LEWS, NRRISAND MAY, INC. 2 eubmergent wetland 3upland-wooded 4mnatrdimgn wetland panr Typical Landform Cross-sectionU DEVELOPMENT CAPABILITY Based upon the physiographic units developed in the previous section, a develop- ment capability map is presented on Map 3. This map summarizes the areas where future development can successfully occur as well as areas which will be most sensitive to future development. Three general classifications are established. These are: a) Limited Development Capability - high water levels, flood hazard and important wildlife areas. These areas include the "boom", fly ash ponds, and the Kent Pond. b) Moderate Development Capability - transitional water level areas, unconsolidated soils and upland vegetation. These areas include the dredge disposal area, boat ramp and other filled areas. c) Suitable Development Capability - previously altered upland and fill areas. These include the Sims Power Plant area and the oil terminal complex. 19 Harbor Island liii '/ ~~~Legend 1/ ) Lim~~~~~~Urited Development Capability I ~~~~~~~~~~~~~-High water levels, fliood hazard Eq ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~and Important wildlife habitat /4 / - ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Moderate Development Capability oft -7 F _ -Transitilonal water levels, unconsolidated - J tu~~~~~~~~~~a ~~~~~~~~.rnua ~~~~~~~~~ and upland vegetat~~~~~~~~~~~~~~sil ad pan vgeato Suitable Development Capability -Previously altered upland fill areas 0 DEVELOPMENT CAPABILTY City of Grand HAVen harbor Island master Olin $ ARES, LEWIS. NORRIS AND MAY, INC. engineersa rchitects planners PRELIMINARY CONCEPT PLAN This plan outlines broad land use concepts for future development, 'and was pre- sented at the first public meeting conducted by the Harbor Island Master Plan Committee. The land use concepts are consistent with the analysis conducted under the Physiographic Units (Map 2) as well as the Development Capability (Map 3). The next chapter of this report will provide greater detail concerning these land use concepts and will devise a specific muster plan for Harbor Island. S~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~2 HroIsln Lkerpark MIe path RECR~~O~~/, A; R~~~~~~'bNEcRVATION Picnic~~~~~~~~~~-i~~ WRetM A CONCEPabta w~ ~Ct of Gand Haaven knorove~~mstrnpnan Wildlif~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~enner habciteats panr ~~~~~~~ATIO~~~~~~~~~~~1020 0 0 Harbor Island Master Plan HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN The Harbor Island Master Plan is designed to provide direction for the future development of this important island resource. The recommended plan consists of three elements: Harbor Island Master Plan, Description of Plan Components, and Implementation Program. HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN The Harbor Island Master Plan presents the overall design and land use compon- ents for the island. The Plan is intended to be used as a tool to guide future development and to assist decision makers regarding future management. It is a flexible plan that promotes future land use and design concepts while allowing for variation in design detail. The Plan is the result of three public meetings and numerous work sessions held by the Harbor Island Master Plan Committee. Four preliminary designs were devel- oped prior to the acceptance of this master plan. The Master Plan shown on the following pages, incorporates two development alternatives (Alternative I and Alternative 2). The two alternatives are the result of unknown factors which will influence the future development on the island. * ~~~~These unknown factors include: a) Status of river dreding and future plans by the Army Corps of Engineers for dredge disposal; ID b) The future use of present turning basin is unknown. It is possible that a new turning basin will be constructed downriver. If this occurs, the northern waterfront of Harbor Island can be used for other purposes; 23 ________________________________________________Harbor Island Vista -directional[ Ignage Fishtown Boat Rm"-700' Ships Turning Radius -landscaping -fresh fishmarket /0 \ -expanded to 182 carltrailer parking -improved circulation-restriping ,' ", -realigned access road -curlo-landscaped open areas , -additional in/out ramps - tea" dockn~gs gx4~fi~i~ . Prelect Lakewell-'Challen-e' ij -19th century schooner -nautical history exlibi't /Marsh Man -marsh revegetation ipur ose Center -wildlife viewing Vista LgoIsad-viewing tower *ineptve-parking Lagoon Island -boardwa-hikelpath ......tion -bicycle/pedestrian path / "~' '* ' -restrooms -interpretive signs -etom -picnic shelter field -picnicking ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-boardwalk l~ ~~~~~rm~_ i~ ~~b i! ~�~ '. - / Dredged Channel / '/ -bike path Lagoon Enti - - - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. -picnicking -picnic shelter Bike Path -landscaping -interpretive sign Dr Staging Area . "' "'"'~" "'nle..r~tive si .-truc rantoort of material �, ~ .....~Lagoon Greenbelt -preserve and enhance Perimeter vegetation - rcnsrcto Gad Isle Drvemn -minimize dredge and fill -rconstructlon U -implsmer industrial performance standards -realionmcet -improved roat /' 4a 'F��r~~~~~~~~~~~~~~�parf cl~~~~~~~~~~y~~~s���i~~~~~~~~2�i~~~~~i~~~i~~~i~~~D~~~~~ -bike psth~~~-bkepah Pill~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Ra Imprvement -ShIpLlPng Ong facil i facilitiee a-ilitien The Kent Pond 6WOM ~ , .\ 1, . , - -1.1 I -conservation d,' I cont~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~improed to ad ' rpi~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~fum tanteBoj 36~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Z '"' �u b l i c ~sCT~ 4': ;~~nail tiEe ; oo ij ~~~~CITY OF GRAND HAVEN �!i~~~~~~~~~-~ -'" \ I ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~harbor island master plan 4,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~� ~~~)ilJ I~~~h"� ~ ~ ~ 8?--�!`;~ ~~~ ih,: jr/ ~~~AYRES, LEWIS. NORRIS AND MAY, INC. ~~~ ~~~4 ~ ~ ~ i ii~~~~~~~I~ ~ ~ �~~~~~. ". '�~~~~~~~~~�engineers architects planners~~~~~~~~~~~egiees rcitct paner Uir~riwLnear Par//i 4... 200. 400' goo ' La oon~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ntranc -,~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1thcniy coni -landscaping~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Fatwn ntfclhitr xii S~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -- -4ec eandii~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ _________________uul ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ - ----~~~~~~~~BatSevic Fciit towe~~~~~~~~hr-boarsadwmase plan -bicycle/p~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~engieers -bcikect plathcnnersi -itrrtv0ig.inPt- S~l c) The status of the proposed entrance boulevard is unknown. If a new entrance roadway is constructed, it may be possible to remove the present Third Street Bridge and open the South Channel for marina development. Taken together, Alternatives I and 2 present the master plan for Harbor Island. They vary only in the future use of the dredge disposal area, turning basin, and South channel. All other components are the same. A detailed description of these components is presented in the following section. DESCRIPTION OF THE PLAN COMPONENTS - ALTERNATIVE NO. I The land use and design components for each study area will be examined in detai I. Boat Ramp The City's existing boat ramp accommodates approximately 100 vehicles and trailers and provides 6 ramp spaces. The popularity of boating and fishing within the area now dictates that this boat ramp be expanded. The Master Plan calls for an additional 100 spaces for car and trailer parking plus an additional 6 ramps. The new ramps are proposed on the lagoon or "boom" side in order to avoid the rough water conditions currently being experienced on the Grand River. The loca- tion of these ramps will require some additional dredging of the lagoon area. In addition to the new parking areas and new ramps, 6 temporary boat docks are pro- posed so that boaters may temporarily tie-up while parking their vehicles. Marsh Management To the east of the Multi-Purpose Center, the Master Plan calls for a Marsh Management Area where efforts are proposed to revegetate the northern portions of the lagoon with marsh plants. Representative marsh species such as cattails, arrowhead, wild rice, etc., can be grown in this area. The marsh will incorporate boardwalks, interpretive signs, and wooden bridges connecting with the main bicycle path. 26 Harbor Island 0 Harbor Island Interpretive / Multi. Purpose Center Multi-Purpose Center The Multi-Purpose Center is a new facility which will incorporate restrooms, viewing tower, fish cleaning facilities, exhibits, parking area and boardwalk. The Center will accommodate the needs of the fishermen and boaters using the boat ramp, as well as other members of the public wishing to recreate on Harbor Island. The Multi-Purpose Center will provide a main attraction for bicyclists, joggers, and members of the public who wish to enjoy some of the natural scenery of the island. The Center would also provide exhibits and displays concerning the island's marsh vegetation, wildlife and natural resource systems. 27 Harbor Island Vista 0 Two vista areas are proposed within the Master Plan. These areas would provide a wooden structure located on a deck or boardwalk which would afford island users a view of the, river area. The structures can repeat a design theme already used at the Harbor Island Linear Park and offer users sitting benches and picnic facil- 0 ities. The vistas would be connected by a bike path and incorporate parking, land- scaping, and signage. The first vista area is located on the north side of the island, northeast of the boat ramp. The second vista area would be located to the east of the U.S. 31 bridge, near Rix Robinson Park. f kiosk' stores- /i ~i~~'" " _ j.__J 'a~f~!,,l- '........ ::1 :Z."-lil ...... -laEii IllH IHItlll6lE1:1::51.'111.L~.'!t'f lJllllllHllUIIIf.IIII I-"I;I li"- I 'Challenge' Boardwalk Fishtown Parking Section View of Harbor Island - Fishtown Fish Town This proposed complex would incorporate- a commercial center which would cater to tourists and residents. The commercial complex could include a fresh fish market, fishing supply store, and a curio shop containing art work and artifacts.. It is expected that a sufficient market for supplies and goods will be generated by the boaters, fishermen, tourists, and residents. 28 Harbor Island Project Lakewell - "Challenge" Upstream of the Fishtown complex, the Master Plan proposes a location for the Project Lakewell - "Challenge". This is a reconstructed 19th Century schooner which would be used for nautical exhibits and outdoor education. Project Lakewell is a privately-funded organization which is attempting to locate a site, as well as funds for development of this project. Members of the Harbor Island Committee feel that this particular site is suitable because of the visability from U.S. 31, as well as its connection to the proposed Fishtown complex. The "Challenge", Fishtown complex, and the proposed vista can all be linked by a boardwalk. Together, these facilities will provide the necessary attraction for drawing people out to Harbor Island. Recreation Area Located on the northern portion of the current dredge disposal area is proposed a recreation complex including a football field, two baseball fields, and parking area. This recreation complex is dependent upon the partial abandonment of the area by the Army Corps of Engineers. The complex could also serve as overflow parking for the boat ramp. On peak weekends when the current boat ramp parking lot is full, vehicles and boat trailers can be parked on a grass field adjacent to this recreation complex. Dredge Staging Area The Army Corps of Engineers is considering the option of a dredge staging area. This staging area would replace the current practice of holding all dredge material from the Grand River within the current site. Instead the disposal area would S temporarily hold annual maintenance dredging until the dredge material can be trucked out for upland disposal. This concept would allow the City to use approx- imately one-half the land that is currently being used for the diked, dredged dis- posal. The Master Plan also calls for permanent landscaped berms to improve the visual appearance of this dredged staging area. 29 Harbor Island The Kent Pond This vacant wetland area incorporates approximately 20 acres and is located to the east of the C&O Railroad. The Master Plan proposes that this area remain as conservation and that no development occur within this area. Rix Robinson Park This existing park area is located to the east of U.S. 31 and is a little used park area containing a pond and wooden footbridge. The Master Plan proposes improvement of this park area by including a bike path, picnic area, and landscap- ing. The park is recognized as bordering on one of the key entry areas for the community. As an entry area, it is intended that the park will improve the first impression that many visitors receive as they enter into the City of Grand Haven. Future Port Development This area incorporates approximately 6 acres of land which can be used for either industrial or recreational uses. As an industrial use, the area is planned for port development, shipping, storage facilities, and docking facilities. A portion of the land is currently in private use and is zoned as industrial. The remaining portion of the land is City-owned. If the area does develop as industrial, it is recom- mended that a greenbelt be installed which would enhance the perimeter vegeta- tion and minimize the visual impact upon adjoining recreational uses. If this area does not develop for port facilities, it is possible that the land can be used for recreation and/or marina uses. The Grand River Sailing Club has expressed an interest in this site as a future complex for marina and boating facilities. 30 Harbor Island I He - - B d VwYaof South ahm fron PoPmed Endno Bouevar Future Entrance Boulevard The Master Plan proposes a new entrance boulevard which would ultimately connect with Harbor Boulevard and the Grand Haven downtown area. The boulevard will replace Coho Drive and a new bridge is proposed to replace the Third Street Bridge. This new bridge would be located to the west of the C&O Railroad and afford visitors coming into the City an attractive view of the South Channel with its adjoining boat slips and bike path. In order to facilitate traffic movement going out of the City, a new sweep ramp is proposed which would allow northbound traffic to cross over U.S. 31 and then merge with the northbound traffic on 31. A major advantage of this entrance boulevard is the minimization of traffic congestion on Jackson Avenue and a more direct access to U.S. 31. It is anticipated that increased traffic volumes will be generated from the area's existing and proposed facilities. The Grand Haven State Park is the fourth busiest 31 Harbor Island facility in the State Park system. It generates heavy traffic volumes through the City, especially during peak summer periods. Future port development on the island and continued use of the dredge disposal site by the Army Corps of Engineers will also generate additional traffic. Together, these facilities and their associated traffic volumes will necessitate road and bridge improvements for the Harbor Island area. Oil Terminal The Master Plan proposes that the existing oil terminal be buffered with landscap- ing which would minimize the visual impact of this complex. It is also proposed that this area be considered for continued light industrial uses if the oil terminal complex is abandoned or relocated. Bike Path A major component of the " Harbor Island improvement plan will be the expansion of the linear park concept along the South Channel and the northern areas of the island. Ultimately, this bike path will connect with other bike paths proposed _ iM within the City. Portions of the bike path would also ar mars atf. greenneit Third Street serve as a "Vita" course or bike path section Harbor Island Master Plan jogging path. The entire Harbor length of the bike path would then be landscaped and/or bermed in areas where visual screening is neces- sary. A portion of the bikepath can also extend around the perimeter of the cur- rent flyash lagoon. 32 Harbor Island Lagoon Island and Power Plant Area The Lagoon Island is located to the west of the boat ramp and forms the entrance to the "boom." The Master Plan proposes that this island be connected by wooden bridges from the boat ramp area. Bicycle paths are proposed on the island, as well as facilities for picnicking. The entrance channels on either side of the island will have to be dredged to allow for boat access to the "boom" area. The Master Plan also proposes that a berm with vegetation be constructed on the west side of the power plant. The berm will provide a landscape buffer, screen the visual impacts of the coal pile, and help minimize shore erosion. HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN - ALTERNATIVE NO. 2 As mentioned in previous sections of this report, there are a number of unknown factors which would influence the future development of Harbor Island. The sta- tus of the turning basin has yet to be resolved as is the status of the Army Corps of Engineers dredge disposal site and the proposed future entrance boulevard. It is also conceivable that the waste heat from the J.B. Sims power plant can be utilized for boating related or greenhouse uses. Alternative No. 2 provides optional development schemes which can accommodate future development once the above issues are resolved. The optional development alternatives are as follows: North Marina Complex This marina is proposed for the existing turning basin located on the northern por- tion of Harbor Island, if the turning basin is abandoned. The marina can accommodate 56 boat slips, plus parking and satellite services. If the City elects not to build recreation fields as suggested in Alternative No. I, optional develop- ment such as a boat service facility, and a small boat manufacturing facility can be built in the area. It is also possible that a greenhouse complex can be construc- ted which utilizes waste heat from the J.B. Sims power plant. 33 Harbor Island South Marina Complex This marina will be dependent upon construction of a new entrance boulevard and the replacement of the existing Third Street Bridge. If a new bridge is con- structed, additional boat slips can be developed on the South Channel. A future marina complex is, therefore, proposed to the east of the oil terminal. This marina can accommodate 40 boat slips and provide facilities for parking, as well as a club facility. Waste Heat Recovery The 65 megawatt J.B. Sims electric power plant operated by the Grand Haven Board of Light and Power is one of the most efficient plants in the midwest. Even so, nearly 350 million BTU's each hour is rejected as cooling water into the Grand River. Since the rejected heat is in the form of low temperature water, standard heat recovery technology is not applicable. However, two technical approaches are available which may prove to be economically viable. The first, and most readily implemented is de-icing for a year round harbor and boat marina. It is possible that this heated water, which is generally 10-15 degrees fahrenheit above the ambient temperature of the Grand River, can be directed to a marina area near Harbor Island. Boats would then be kept in the marina on a year round basis without having to allow for winter take out. The second approach is a condenser water loop for tennant heat pumps. The heated discharge water from the power plant can be sent to establishments near Harbor Island. The establishments can then use this heated water in conjunction with a heat pump for process heat or building heat. Alternative 2 proposes a greenhouse and boat service buildings which could utilize this waste heat. The utilization of this waste heat will depend upon more detailed studies as well as the availability of an energy user. 34 Harbor Island IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM The Harbor Island Master Plan graphically illustrates improvement and manage- ment programs for the island. However, the plan is incomplete without an imple- mentation program to provide the City with a direction toward development and management of Harbor Island. The implementation program consists of project costs and priorities, and funding sources and mechanisms. It is emphasized that p the Plan presents a long range program which will require public and private resources and cooperation to fully implement. Project Costs and Priorities The full implementation of the Master Plan is projected over a period of 15 years. Figure 7 on the following pages provides a summary of major improvement projects as well as priorities, phasing, funding and projected costs. Project priori- ties and phasing broken down by high (0-5 years) medium (5-10 years) low (10-15 years). Assignment of priorities is an indication of project importance as well as the potential for implementation within a given time frame. Costs are estimated within a range of categories varying from $50,000 to over $500,000. High priority projects for Harbor Island include: boat ramp improvements, bike paths, dredge staging, landscaping and development of docking facilities. Most of the above items will be grant eligible and it is recommended that the City monitor a various grant programs for possible funding. It is also possible for the City to begin low cost improvement measures immediately. Landscaping, clean up, sign construction and designation of the bike paths can be an early effort conducted by City residents and staff. 35 Harbor Island Figure 7 City of Grand Haven HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM Improvement Priority Phasing Funding Projected Cost Boat Ramp 82 Add'l Parking Spaces High 0-5 years DNR Waterways 2 6 Add'l Boat Ramps High 0-5 years DNR Waterways I Realigned Access Road High 0-5 years DNR Waterways I Temporary Dock High 0-5 years DNR Waterways I Pedestrian/Bicycle Circulation Bike Path High 0-5 years LAWCON I Vita Course High 0-5 years LAWCON I Interpretive Sign High 0-5 years LAWCON I Landscaping High 0-5 years LAWCON I Dredge Staging Area Temporary Dredge Holding Pond High 0-5 years ACOE 2 Landscaping High 0-5 years ACOE I Power Plant Landscaping High 0-5 years Private I Berm High 0-5 years Private I Future Port Development Docking Facilities High 0-5 years Private-City 2 Oil Terminal Landscaping High 0-5 years Private I Auto Circulation Replacement Bridge High 0-5 years Critical Bridge Program 4 Entrance Boulevard High 0-5 years FAUS 3 Exit/Entrance Ramps High 0-5 years FAUS 3 Island Road Improvements High 0-5 years City-Gas & Weight Funds 2 Rix Robinson Park Bike Path High 0-5 years LAWCON I Picnicking Medium 5-10 years LAWCON I Landscaping High 0-5 years LAWCON I Vista Structure Medium 5-10 years LAWCON I Parking Medium 5-10 years LAWCON I Lagoon Dredging for Boat Launch High 0-5 years City 2 Landscaping High 0-5 years City I Multipurpose Center Restrooms Medium 5-10 years DNR Waterways 2 Exhibits Medium 5-10 years LAWCON-CZM I Viewing Tower Medium 5-10 years LAWCON I Fish Cleaning Station Medium 5-10 years DNR Waterways I Marsh Management Interpretive Signs Medium 5-10 years LAWCON-CZM I Boardwalk Medium 5-10 years LAWCON-CZM I Project "Lakewell" 19th Century Schooner Medium 5-10 years Private Boardwalk Medium 5-10 years Private-City 2 Exhibits Medium 5-10 years Private-City I (continued on next page) Figure 7 City of Grand Haven HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM (continued) Improvement Priority Phasing Funding Projected Cost Recreation Area Football Fields Low 10-15 years LAWCON I Baseball Fields Low 10-15 years LAWCON I Lagoon lsland/Entrance Bicycle/Pedestrian Path Low 10-15 years LAWCON I Interpretive Signs Low 10-15 years LAWCON-CZM I Picnic Shelter/Tables Low 10-15 years LAWCON I Landscaping Low 10-15 years LAWCON I Bridges Low 10-15 years LAWCON I Fishtown Fresh Fishmarket Low 10-15 years Private/UDAG 2 Fishing Supply Shop Low 10-15 years Private/UDAG 2 Tourist Curios Low 10-15 years Private/UDAG 2 Landscaping Low 10-15 years Private-City I Boardwalk Low 10-15 years Private-City 2 North Marina Option 56 Boat Slips Low 10-15 years Private 2 Boardwalk Low 10-15 years Private I Harbormaster/Information Bldg Low 10-15 years Private 2 Maintenance Low 10-15 years Private I Parking Low 10-15 years Private I South Marina Option 40 Boat Slips Low 10-15 years Private 2 Harbormaster/Information/Club Low 10-15 years Private 2 Parking Low 10-15 years Private I Maintenance Low 10-15 years Private I Greenhouse Parking Low 10-15 years Private I Greenhouse Structure Low 10- S years Private 2 Waste Heat Connection Low 10-15 years Private I Small Boat Manufacturing Parking Low 10-15 years Private I Building Low 10-15 years Private 2 Utilities Low 10-15 years Private I Boat Service Facility Parking Low 10-15 years Private I Building Structure Low 10-15 years Private 2 Boat Ramp Low 10-15 years Private I Utilities Low 10-15 years Private I Legend: Funding Costs (1984) LAWCON - MDNR Land and Water Conservation Fund I - under $50,000 CZM - MDNR Coastal Zone Management 2 - $50,000 - $150,000 UDAG - Urban Development Action Grant 3 - $150,000 - $500,000 FAUS - Federal Aid to Urban Systems 4 - $500,000 and over ACOE - Army Corps of Engineers Funding Sources and Mechanisms The costs of implementation will place added importance upon outside grants and assistance programs. A variety of Federal, State, and private grant resources are available for Harbor Island. However, it is likely that local funds will be neces- sary for a significant portion of the project cost. While the status of many Federal and State funding programs is unclear, it is like- ly that some funding for local recreation, public works, and community develop- ment will continue to be available. The City with the help of its consultants and staff, should monitor the funding situation and be prepared to act when funds be- come available. The following grant programs listed in Figure 8 will be important resources for the future development and management of Harbor Island. The potential availability of grant funds does not eliminate the necessity to finance all or portions of projects with local funds. It is the rule rather than the It ~~~exception that Federal grants require the local unit of government to fund a por- tion of the project. Local funding can be raised through the general fund revenue sharing, general obligation bonds, revenue bonds, special milIlage, tax increment financing and private contributions. Volunteer efforts should not be overlooked. Concerned citizens can do a number of worthwhile, low-cost improvements within the coastal area. Possible projects include: - bicycle and or pathway improvements - signs - volunteer tree donation and planting programs S- clean up programs - general landscaping 38 Harbor Island Figure 8 City of Grand Haven HARBOR ISLAND MASTER PLAN POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES Program Agency Type of Assistance Applicable Projects Land & Water Conservation National Park Service, Project Grants Recreation facilities, bike paths, Fund MDNR landscaping, etc. Local Waterways Assistance MDNR Waterways Division Project Grants Boat launch, parking, and rest- rooms Coastal Zone Management Program NOAA/MDNR Project Grants Planning (possible low-cost con- struction) Michigan Land Trust Fund MDNR Project Grants Recreation development and/or acquisition Federal Aid to Urban Systems MOOT Project Grants Roads and bridges Critical Bridge Program MOOT Project Grants Bridges Wells Fargo Fitness Program Wells Fargo Bank Project Grants Bike path, vita course Economic Development Grants Economic Development Grants & Loans Public works, economic devel- & Loans Administration opment Community Development Block HUD, Grants & Loans Public works, economic devel- Grant Mich. Dept.of Commerce opment Urban Development Action Grant HUD Grants & Loans Commercial, or port develop- ment Coastal Assistance Projects U.S. Army Project Grants/ Miscellaneous waterfront im- Corps of Engineers Technical Assistance provements Summary Grand Haven's Harbor Island Master Plan emphasizes the importance of the City's coastal resources. It attempts to determine the best use and maximum oppor- tunity for Harbor Island. It also expands the City's recreational facilities while continuing a program of economic development. It should be noted that this plan does not represent the final planning effort for Harbor Island. The City and residents must continue to evaluate the detailed proposals for future development of the island and make sound judgements regarding the future management of this important resource. 39 Harbor Island 0 0 0 0 0 0 N * Appendix VEGETATIONAL SURVEY HARBOR ISLAND October 1984 Does not include diked disposal area or submerged aquatic species. TREES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME* Northern White Cedar Thuja occidentalis Black Willow Salix nigra Weeping Willow Salix babylonica Eastern Cottonwood Populus deltoides White(silver) Poplar Populus alba Black Walnut Juglans nigra American Elm Ulmus americana Red Mulberry Morus rubra Apple Malus sp. (Johnicus Appleseedum) Pin Cherry Prunus penysylvanica Black Locust Robinia pseudoacacia Hoptree (Wafer Ash) Ptelea trifoliata Ailanthus Ailanthus altissima Sugar Maple Acer saccharum Silver Maple Acer saccharinum Boxelder Acer negunda Ash Fraxinus sp. Catalpa Catalpa *Scientific names according to C. Frank Brockman SHRUBS AND VINES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME* Sandbar Willow Salix interior Willow shrub Salix sp. Black Current Ribes sp. Red Raspberry Rubus sp. Blackberry Rubus sp. Rugosa Rose Rosa rugosa Wafer Ash** Ptelea trifoliata Staghorn Sumac Rhus typhinia Poison Ivy Rhus radicans Woodbine Parthenocissus quinquefolia Grape Vitis sp. Red-osier Dogwood Cornus stolonif era Nightshade Solanum dulcamara Buttonbush Lonicera sp. High-bush Cranberry Viburnum trilobum Common elderberry Sambucus canadensis Wild Cucumber Echinocystis lobata Common Burdock Arctium minus *Scientific names according to Cecil Billington (Shrubs of Michigan) **Also listed as a tree FORBS AND GRASSES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME* Duckweed Lemna sp. Softstem Bulrush Scirpus valides Slender Bulrush S. heterochaetus Sedges Carex sp. Rushes Juncus sp. Water Lily Nymphaea sp. Bullhead Lily Nephur lutea Arrowhead Sagittaria sp. Pickerelweed Pontederia cordata Cattail Typha sp. Burreed Sparganium sp. Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum Smartweed Polygonum sp. Reed Grass Phragmites communis Horsetail Equisetum sp. Blue Flag Iris versicolor Slender Blue Flag Iris prismatica Yellow Iris Iris pseudocorus Jewelweed Impatiens capensis Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicara Sweet Cicely Ozmorhiza Claytoni Water Parsnip Sium suave Blue Vervain Verbena hastata Viper's Bugloss Echium vulgare Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatium Dogbane (Indian Hemp) Apocynum androsaemifolium Evening Primrose oenothera biennis Four-O-Clock Myrabilis nyctaginea Bouncing Bet Saponaria officinalis Common St. Johnswort Hypericiam perforatum Yarrow Achillea millefolium Heal-all Prunella vulgaris Wormwood Artemesia vulgaris Teasel Dipsacus sylvestris Dock Rumex spp. Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis White Sweet Clover M. alba Red Clover Trifolium pratense Rabbit's-foot Clover T. arvense Storksbill Erodium circutarium Common Cinquefoil Potentilla simplex Wild Morning Glory Convolvulus sepium Bur-marigolds Bidens Willow-herb Epilobium chirsutum Hoary Alyssum Bertoria incana White Campion Lychnis alba Catnip Nepeta cataria Black Eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta White Aster Aster sp. White Snakeroot Eupatorium rugosum Ox-eye Daisy Chrysanthemum leucanthemium Spotted Knapweed Centaurea maculosa Chicory Cichorium intybus Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca Wild Snapdragon Linaria vulgaris Orange Hawkweed Hieracium aurantiacum Common Milkweed Asclepias syrica Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium sp. Horsemint Monarda punetata Goldenrod Solidago spp. Thistle Cirsium spp. Common Mullein Verbascum thepsus Moth Mullein V. blattaria Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota Pokeweed Phytolacoa americana Field Pepper Grass Lepidium campestre Poor Man's Pepper L. virginicum Other Grasses Shaggy Mane Fungi Basidium Other Fungi, Lichens, and Mosses *Scientific names according to Peterson and McKenny COMMENTS: The plant variety on Harbor Island offers cover, nesting habitat, food and water for diverse populations of waterfowl and shorebirds as well as upland bird and mammal species. Trees, shrubs and vines form an important part of the flora throughout America. Besides providing essential ground cover and nesting habitat for many wildlife species, the fruits, seeds and foliage of woody plants also furnish a large share of their food. Forbs and grasses, annuals and perennials, are valuable to ground feeding birds and small mammals. In addition, the plants provide protective cover for many small animals. Marjorie Hendricks, Oct. 6, 1984 BIRDS OBSERVED ON HARBOR ISLAND AREA Horned Grebe (spring and fall) Pied-billed Grebe (spring,summer, fall) Double-crested Cormorant (spring, fall) Great Blue Heron (spring,summer,fall) Green Heron (snring,summer,fall) Little Blue Heron I(spring) 1 record. Great Egret (spring,summer,fall) Black-crowned Night Heron (fall) Least Bittern (summer , nest in area). Canada Geese (spring,fall) Snow Goose (fall) 1 record. Mallard nest in area, permanent resident Black Duck (spring, fall). Gadwall (fall) Pintail (spring,fall) Green-winged Teal (spring,fall) Blue-winged Teal has nested in area (spring,summer,fall). Northern Shoveler (spring,fall). Wood Duck (spring,summer,fall). Redhead (spring,fall). Scaup Duck '(spring,fall). Common Goldeneye (late fall, winter). Canvasback (spring, fall, winter). Common Goldneeye (Late fall winter). ?hite-winged Scoter (winters Ruddy Duck ( spring, late fall, winter) Hooded Merganser (spring) Common Merganser (spring, late fall, winter). Peregrine Falcon (spring, fall). Merlin (spring,fall). Kestrel (permanent resident). King Rail has nested in Rix Robinson Park Virginia Rail summer resident Sora (summer resident). Common Gallinule now called Moorhen (summer resident). American Coot (summer resident). Killdeer ( summer resident). * Spotted Sandpiper (summer resident nest in area). Solitary Sandpiper (spring, fall). Greater and Lesser Yellow-legs (spring , fall). W'Jhite-rumped Sandpiper (spring). Least Sandpiper (spring fall). Short-billed Dowitcher (spring) * Stilt Sandpiper (spring, fall). Sanderling (spring, fall). Glaucous Gull (winter). Iceland Gull (winter, I record). Herring Gull ( permanent resident) Ring-billed Gull (permanent resident). * Franklin's Gull (spring) Bomaparte's Gull (spring,fall, winter). Little Gull (fall) Forster's Tern (spring,fall). Common Tern (snring,fall). Caspian Tern (spring,fall). Mourning Dove (permanent resident). Snowy Owl (winter). Belted Kingfisher (spring,summer , fall). Tree Swallow (summer). Bank Swallow (summer). Marsh Wren (summer). Gray Catbird (summer resident) Brown Thrasher (summer resident). Robin (summer resident). Golden and Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Spring,fall). Cedar Waxwing (summer resident). Yellow Warbler (summer resident) Warblers 15 different species during spring and fall migration. Redwing Blackbird (summer resident) Common Grackle (summer resident) Cardinal ( permanent resident). American Goldfinch ( permanent resident). Dark-eyed Junco (late fall, winter). Tree Sparrow (winter ). Chipping Sparrow ( summer resident). White-crowned Sparrow (spring,fall). White-throated Sparrow (spring,fall). Fox Sparrow (spring,fall).' Lincoln's Sparrow (spring more common in fall). Swamp Sparrow (spring,summer, fall). Song Sparrow (permanent resident). The Harbor Island area is an excellent spot to observe migrating birds during spring and fall movements. Because birds use the shoreline of Lake Michigan as one of their main routes, many rare and unusual birds show up in the Harbor Island area. This area serves as a resting and feeding area during migration. All birds listed have been observed on Harbor Island over a lO year study. Habitat change from year to year because of of fluctuation in water levels, so during low water when cattails return marsh birds return, and will be completely absence during high water. If I can be of any further help please let me know. Sincerely, James Ponshair Bird Record Chairman Grand Rapids Audubon Club,inc.