[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                @,@LOWERI RIVER: ISLANDS, FEASIBILITY STUDY
                                                         FOR THE
                                    CITY OF SAU 4T .STE.                          MARIE









                                                                                                Die

                                                                                                                   Ir








                  N            i/A




                                                'FEBRUARY', 1996,

               Financial Assistance By:             Administered By:                     Prepared By:

                                                             C
               Coastal Zone Mgmt---Act                         oastal Mgmt.               Ca             nts, Inc.
                                                                                            pital Consulta
               Office of Ocean and Coastal          Program, Dept. of                    Gaylord,and Lansing, MI
               Resoutce Mgmt.,National              Environmental Quality,
               Oceanic and Atmospheric'             Land and Water Mgmt.
               Administtatijon                      Division








                              Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                                  for The City of Sault Ste. Marie


                                          City Commission

                                         William Lynn, Mayor
                                           Anthony Bosbous
                                            David Gonyeau
                                           Verna Lawrence
                                           William Munsell
                                            Michael Peller
                                           Scott Shackleton


                                     Spencer Nebel, City Manager


                Community Services Board                   Planning and Development
                                                                  Commission


                     Tim Hall, Chairman                        Earl Kay, Chairman
                        Joan Bauer                              Robert Drysdale
                         Ellen Brey                                Robert Ellis
                       Barbara Fortin                            Steven Glezen
                       David Guisbert                            Joseph Henne
                     Marilyn McDonald                             Ernest Maas
                     Clayton McGahey                            Robert Shimmens
                       James Suggitt                            Douglas Welton
                        Larry Wirth                              Patrick Wilson

            Gordon Clarke, Parks and Recreation          James Hendricks, Planning and
                          Director                            Development Director



                                        By Special Appointment
                            Lower River Islands Study Steering Committee
                                           As Listed Herein



                                            February 1996









             TABLE     OF CONTENTS
                                                                                                   PAGE

             Background to Study      ..................................................                  1

             Planning Process and Development of the Study         ............................           3

             Site Inventory and Analysis    .............................................                 5
                    Location   .......................................................                    5
                    Topography     ....................................................                   5
                    Existing Land Use     ...............................................                 8
                    Physical History   .................................................                  8
                    Island Acquisition by the City   .......................................              8
                    St. Mary's River Shipping Channel      .................................           10
                    St. Mary's River Trail  ............................................               10
                    Surrounding Uses      ..............................................               10
                    Regulatory Agencies     ............................................               15
                    Natural Features     ...............................................               16


             Committee Brainstorming Session and Design Intent         ........................        28

             Concept Plan Development       ............................................               30

             The Plan of Development      ..............................................               32
                    Key Issues Addressed in the Plan      ..................................           32
                    Access to Steere Island    ..........................................              32
                    Access to Small Unnamed Island and Island No. 2        .....................       35
                    Old Island Structures   ............................................               35
                    Natural Features on Island No. 2     ...................................           37
                    Utilities and Lighting on Islands  ....................................            37

             The Plan in Detail   ....................................................                 38
                    Rotary Park Development      ........................................              38
                    Steere Island Development      .......................................             41
                    Island No. 2 Development     ........................................              46
                    Future Options    .................................................                49
                    Cost Estimates for Concept E - Final Site Master Plan      ..................      49

             Implementation    ......................................................                  53
                    Phasing Plan     ..................................................                53
                    Issues to be Addressed for Phasing       ................................          53
                    Planning for the Next Steps    .......................................             53
                    Summary of Costs for Concept E       ...................................           53
                    Funding Alternatives    .............................................              54









             Appendices
                    Appendix A - Backgound Information on Committee Members        ............   57
                    Appendix B - Letter from the Michigan Historical Center  .................    59
                    Appendix C - Advertisement for Public Workshop    ......................      60
                    Appendix D - Summary Comments from Public Workshop         ...............    61
                    Appendix E - Letter from the Coastal Zone Management Division      .........  64
                    Appendix F - Concept Plans A, B, C, D, and E                                  65
                    Appendix G - Sault Ste. Marie City Commission Resolution of Adoption     .... 79







               ackground to Study


             In 1986, the City of Sault Ste. Marie acquired ownership, by donation, of three islands
             within a group of six known as the Lower River Islands. Located within the St. Mary's
             River on the eastern side of the City of Sault Ste. Marie, the islands vary in size from
             one-half acre, seven acres, and fifty-five acres. Previous use of the islands was for
             recreational cottagps. Now wildlife nesting, wetlands, and woodlots are present on the
             islands.


             In October 1994, the City of Sault Ste. Marie received a grant from the Michigan
             Department of'Natural Resources (MDNR) Coastal Management Program. The
             purpose of the'grant was to provide a study to identify recreational uses on the Lower
             River Islands. (The Coastal Zone Management Program is now administered by the
             Michigan Department of Environmental Quality or MDEQ.)

             In June of 1995, Capital Consultants, Inc. was retained by the City of Sault Ste. Marie
             to assist in t'he development of a Feasibility Study for the Lower River Islands.
             Direction and input for the study was led by Mr. James Hendricks and Ms. Barbara
             Lisiecki of the City of Sault Ste. Marie Planning and Development Department and by
             the Sault Ste. Marie Lower River Islands Study Steering Committee. Mr. Larry Wirth of
             the Community Services Board also worked with the Committee. The Committee
             members are as follows:


             Lower River Islands Study Steering Committee

                                                  April 1995

             Ms. Ellen Brey            Sault Ste. Marie Community Services Board
             Mr. James Moody           Sault Ste. Marie Planning and Development Commission
             Ms. Elizabeth Demaray     Member from the General Public
             Mr. Daniel Donarski       Member from the General Public
             Mr. Warren Parker         Member from the General Public


                                                November 1295

             Ms. Ellen Brey            Sault Ste. Marie Community Services Board
             Mr. Robert Shimmens       Sault Ste. Marie Planning and Development Commission
             Ms. Elizabeth Demaray     Member from the General Public
             Mr. Daniel Donarski       Member from the General Public
             Mr. James Moody           Member from the General Public


             Additional background information on the Steering Committee members is included in-
             Appendix A.


                                                       1








             This study document  includes a description of the planning process, site analysis,
             including both cultural and natural aspects, concept scheme development, a final
             proposed site master plan, conceptual cost estimates, phasing plan, and a discussion
             concerning financing alternatives.












































                                                        2








              Planning Process and Development of the Study


              The purpose of this study, as defined by the Sault Ste. Marie Lower River Islands
              Feasibility Study Committee, is to evaluate the potential recreational uses for the Lower
              River Islands while balancing the natural and potentially historic features of the islands.
              The Committee was formed to assist in the development of the study. The study was
              funded by a $12,500 grant from the Coastal Management Program and $12,500 in
              matching funds from the City of Sault Ste. Marie. The Coastal Management Program is
              administered by the Land and Water Management Division of the Michigan Department
              of Environmental Quality.

              To assist in the development of the study, the consultant team of Capital Consultants,
              Inc. and Resource Management Group, Inc. was retained in July of 1995. To initiate
              the study, the consultant team and the study committee conducted a boat tour around
              the islands followed by a walking expedition of each of the three islands. Based on this
              information and research, a site analysis of the surrounding cultural and natural
              features was developed.

              This site analysis information was reviewed with the committee. Based on this
              information, a brainstorming workshop was conducted to collect a wide range of
              potential ideas. This information was synthesized among the members, and by
              consensus, the committee determined that the focus for the island development would
              include bridges from Rotary Park to provide pedestrian access to the islands, passive
              recreational activities, and interpretation of not only the natural features, but also the
              existing artifacts of the previous resort cottage culture. Recreational activities would
              include, but not be limited to, walking, historical and natural interpretation, fishing,
              picnicking, and camping.

              It was determined that continued evaluation of the heron rookeries, wetlands, potential
              historic structures, and the concerns of the Michigan Department of Environmental
              Quality, Michigan Historical Center (formally known as the Michigan Bureau of History),
              Army Corps of Engineers, and other agencies would be important. The sensitivity of
              the natural features on the islands were viewed as a high priority in considering
              development on the islands. Resource Management Group (RMG) analyzed and
              reported on the natural resources on the islands.

              The site analysis information and the committee workshop results were developed into
              three conceptual site plans depicting solutions incorporating variations and levels of
              development on the three islands. These concepts were presented to the committee
              and discussed. Based on this discussion, a fourth concept (Concept D) was developed
              in corporating the discussion of the committee and City staff.

              The four concepts were presented to the City Commission for review at its regular
              meeting on September 5, 1995. At the meeting the City Commission invited public
              comment and scheduled a public workshop for September 20, 1995. A copy of the

                                                            3









             public notice and summary of the public workshop are included in Appendix C and
             Appendix D.

             Comments received from the public workshop were considered and evaluated. Based
             on this evaluation, a fifth concept (Concept E) was developed. A final cost estimate, a
             phasing plan, and potential funding sources were developed and also incorporated into
             a draft study document. The draft of the plan was presented to the Study Committee.

             Concept E was reviewed by the Study Committee at a final committee meeting on
             November 28, 1995. Final adjustments to Concept E were noted and a water-taxi was
             suggested as an option for access between Steere and Island No. 2. These comments
             have been included in the revised Concept E.

             A copy of the resolution to adopt the Lower River Islands Feasibility Study by the City
             Commission of the City of Sault Ste. Marie is included in Appendix G.

































                                                       4








              Site lnven@ory and Analysis


              The site inventory and analysis section of the plan provides identification and
              discussion concerning unique features surrounding the islands as well as located on
              the islands. The site-inventory includes both cultural items such as location,
              surrounding land uses, and historic uses, as well   'as natural features such as wildlife,
              vegetation and ecosystems such as wetlands. This section of the report includes an
              indepth wildlife and vegetation inventory and analysis by Resource Managem        ent
              Group. Also consulted was a report intitled "Suggested Ideas and Concepts of the
              Facility Design for the Lower St. Mary's River Project", December 15, 1994, prepared
              as a student paper by Craig A. Gormley.



              Location


              The location of the Lower River Islands is within the City of Sault Ste. Marie in the St.
              Mary's River on the eastern side of the City, in Chippewa County, Michigan. A location
              map of the Islands area is included on thefollowing page. The islands lie along the
              southern river bank edge of the St. Mary's River, 2.5 miles southeast of the Soo Locks.

              The islands form a chain.aligned north and -south of the mainland of the City. Steere
              Island, with a land area of seven (7) acres, is closest at 250' offshore from Rotary Park.
              An unnamed island, one-half acre in size, is located between Steere Island and Island
              No. 2, the largest of the three islands in the study at 55 acres. Located westerly, and to
              the north of Island No. 2, is Rotary Park; although not a formal portion of the study
              area, Rotary Park is a key part of the overall development of the islands. The other
              islands in the chain are privately held or federal property of the U.S. Army Corps of
              Engineers.


              Topography

              To establish the topography and elevations of the water surfaces     and islands, a
              topographic map was developed'by Abrams Aerial Survey based on an aerial flight of
              the islands. The topographic map appears on the page 7. An analysis of the
              information has been included within the Natural Features discussion of this section.












                                                            5






                                 A.I@POM@ I)ISI.RICT
                           Falis  CHIPP
                 \St M

          g.
                                          SOO LOCKS Lit
          UPI---       CA-1
             sour@

                                                    A     201                                                      0,
                              L


                                                                                                           S

    AA-
     .9-v                                                                                         C




                                                                                       S
                                                                                      @S:                                       6     B
                                 rv



                                                       k
          ?2

                                                                                                                     @u
             "o


                                                                                                                             0

                                                                                                                  011
                                                     WA
                                                    w            STUDY AREA
                                                                    Steere Island
                                                                                                                        @-Zll       0 U L,
    CD                                                              Unnamed Island
                                                                    Island No. 2                                                     Old
                                                                                                                                      -k
                                                                                                                                5
                                                            17
                                                                             lb   r
                                 18
                                                                                                                  0

                                                                                 7.
                                                                                                               %;         XP
           Al                                                                                             15


                                                                    C Ty
                                                                               AR

                                                                                                       Gardenvi
                                                       11-ior
                United States Department of the Inte                       -BA0
                Geological Survey                                                                                                cheiN
                                                                                                                                        X@
                Sault Ste. Marie South Quadrangle

         24
                                                                 S-11 SI. 14.10.                                    22
                United States
                Department of the Army
                Corps of Engineers
                                                                                                                                      92


    .-4L (A                                                     Feasibility Study                                      @W,%     489M
                                                                                                                         "'@ """ '., "E"S"O
                    LOCATION MAP                             Lower River Islands               &A        TAL
         F-1                                                                                           P1
         7-1                                                                                        0                  111 " AvI S?RM
    -A                                                                                                NSULTANTS        GAYLMD. @C- 411M
                                                           City of Sault Ste. Marie            E N G I N E E R      S  517-732-0131








                                                                                                                          ABRAMS
                                                                                                                          AERIAL SURVEY CORPORATION
                                                                                                                          124 NORTH LARCH LANSK, 91    46912
                                                                                                                          PO 8m IS=    WGNC, W     401-5008
                                                                                                                        CONTOUR INTERVAL 2'
                                                                                                         DATE OF PHOTOGRAPHY NOVEMBER 23, 1992





                                                  %






























































                                                                             Feasbilty Study
                                     TOPOGRAP"C MAP                        Lower War Wands
                           (9                                                                              C          L
                           fR                                                                             C=tTAMTS
                                                                         City of Sauft Ste. m"
                                                                                                        I          ---      --- .-          I   -     - -









              Existing Land Use

              The islands are uninhabited and covered with natural vegetation. A detailed
              description of these natural features is given in the Natural Feature s portion of this
              section. The islands are currently undeveloped with limited use via boat access by
              fishermen and other users. Functional docking facilities, pathways, or other public
              development do not exist.

              The islands have the remnants of a few abandoned cottage structures on Steere Island
              and Island No. 2. These islands, as well as several of the surrounding islands
              including Sugar Island, were the part of a cottage culture that was most prevalent in the
              1920's through the 1960's. This community was established as a weekend and summer
              vacation destination for families, enjoying the waterfront location and solitude of the
              islands. Much of the history of this time is not recorded, although there is local
              knowledge passed through personal recollections. This culture was valued as an
              important part of the local vernacular which will be interpreted along with the regional
              Sault history. The cottages were all accessed by boat.

              This popular pastime declined in the 1960's and the cottages were abandoned and fell
              into disrepair. However, one log cabin structure on Steere Island appears to be in
              reasonably sound condition and scenically faces Rotary Park. Possible uses
              discussed for the renovated use of the log cabin include an interpretive base for
              interpretation of the island cottage culture, a rest station for island visitors, a place for
              overnight rentals by non-prof it groups, as well as a concession.


              Physical History

              All three islands were original islands within the St. Mary's River prior to the creation of
              the shipping channel. In the late 1880's the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredged the
              shipping channel through the surrounding islands to facilitate the larger ships. This
              channel has been continuously maintained and dredged as required to preserve the
              current shipping channel. Rotary Park Island is currently a third of it's original size.
              The remaining two-thirds of the i 'sland was dredged and hauled away. The eastern
              portion of Steere Island was removed, as well as a northern portion of Island No. 2.     A
              map provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers depicting the original island shapes
              and areas removed is shown on the following page.


              Island Acquisition by the City

              Acquisition of the Lower River Islands property by the City of Sault Ste. Marie was
              through donation on September 15, 1986. The three separate islands were transferred
              to the City by the "Island Associates"for the sum of $2,500 which covered legal transfer
              and outstanding property taxes for the properties. The Island Associates included the
              following individuals:

                                                           8






















                                                                Alt





                                                                             ----------------




                                                                     Of mA;r"_






                        sc=fioms 9, 10, is
                          T. 47 N., R. I F-
                           Wchioan Mer;d;ao
                        scul+s@&Alm-lc @
           co


                                                     S-








                                                                                                    A44 r

                                                                                                                                     WC-f


                                                                                                                       Olt
                                                                              Awy, of                                                                   PROJECT


                                                                                                                                                                 MAL ASTATI
                         Of MiChifA"                                                                                                                                 -RAP[
              tA                                                                                                                                     LITTLE'.
                                                                                                                                                            ..STMARY
                     LAIX@wd     .t" .1fal - - ----------- Xr._, @M_9  ------------------ Sw                                                            CHIPPEWA'. COUNT.,
                      Alv@ftff_" Fp__ry,#E"ely_                         - ---------- xm                                                     PFtDJVZr-No,
                                                                     ..... ---- ------- rns                                                           C'22-7_,.
                                                                                                      _rZ  @&n

                                                                                                               01,










                     Lester and Ruth Oberman
                     Kenneth Bailey
                     Philip T. Andary
                     Hugh and Elizabeth Madigan
                     Nellie DePaul
                     John P. And Joanne Haller
                     LAM Asset Company
                            -Lois A. MacDonald
                            -Victoria MacDonald Madl
                            -Davis A. MacDonald



              St Mary's River Shipping Channel

              The Lower River Islands are located on the southern side of the St. Mary's River, within
              2.5 miles by river of the Soo Locks. In the 1994 season, over 4,000 cargo freighters
              -and almost 7,000 pleasure craft, tour boats and other ships locked through the Soo
              Locks, passing the islands. This location provides a unique opportunity to observe the
              various ships traveling to and from the locks from Rotary Park and the Islands.

              The islands are also effected by the wave action created by the shipping traffic.
              Locations of docking and fishing platforms will be evaluated with these conditions in
              mind. In addition, the water level surges and ice flow in the channel will impact the
              design and consideration of structures in and along the waterway.


              St. Mary's River Trail

              water access to the islands will be important in the linkage to the St. Mary's River Trail.
              The trail is an interpretive watercraft route planned for various points of interest along
              the Michigan and Canadian shorelines. The planning and development of the trail is
              supported by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources as well as other interest
              groups. The St. Mary's River Trail will connect trail heads at Drummond and Lime
              Islands with the Sault area and Canadian water trail systems. Development of the
              Lower River Islands will interact with and support such regional recreation trails and
              should include provisions to attract and accommodate its users. Accommodations may
              include docking, picnicking, and camping facilities. A draft map of the MDNR trail head
              at.Lime and Drummond Island is included on the following page. Supporting pictures
              and a map of Canadian destinations along the trail is also included.


              Surrounding Uses

              Elements in the area surrounding the Lower River Islands contribute significantly to the
              recreation potential of the islands. A map depicting the surrounding land uses is on
              page 14. Rotary Park is a peninsular property-to the north of Steere Island which is an

                                                           10







                                                                                                                                                           FOV- JMMTIOVAI@L INFOEM11011 COVIT&C7
                                                                                                                                                           -TItkIL IMPbKKK-rlOH
                                                                                                                                                            -VAICRI61AW b.MJL.-F*ILtT
                                                                                                                                                                      3ObL%             Kt
                                                                                                                                                           N&OTIC. L 5/C64A,0LT5
                                                                                                                                                           - MICW%dkg %)kl%Ttb COU%tCVk'rIbg C LUIS
                                                                                                                                                                 t4        tSo"b"S 'Lk4%%%K.K% 44bl6l
                                                                                                                                                                  10,11, ST.
                                                                                                                                                          -LOb4IAA )", Lockt.. ItAftr-Kh-TIONI
                                                                                                                                                             or-,rbo?- yt%-Lkc%t                         (tbM2.17- 5471
                                                                                                                                                             DItUMmoNb ISLkNb     CVJ,%6E% Of COMM.04E   (W-)411134145
                                                                                                                                                              Co t4k C4P. 'TOUC%ST C6UNCAL
                                                                                                                                                                              T-Idkmkc.fi,ml
                                                                                                                                                                            "1'kLL                       t-1.161IL17- 360S
                                                                                                                                                                    STE. K kit C"WbEl 400 CWtAtIt4t
                                                                                                                                                                    1-19                         %Tr-KkRt%. K%
                                                                      TIO4kL HIS'TOIt,%C. SITP-                                                                                                      I- boo -L4T-1998 (miccL)
                                                                     mokIT ,)Or-IC                    .1.                                 .1.                11 S0131U %-TK-TE --TILIEET                 4%lb%
                                                                   -l%c-t%-uf-9T FQ0t'r#-&OP-/                                                                                                        t- boo - sib - 666b

                                                                                                                           P
                                                                     IAUSEQK                                                                                               NAUrJCAI. CHAXT
                                                                        ST.   Jostpm                                                                                                                                14663
                                                                            ISLAND                                                                                                                                  DItUMM6WD
                                                             fs I                                                               D r- Li M h 0 m D        F0 F*                                                          SLANO
                                                                            CANADA
                   F*l LEJ
                                                                                                       CPU                                 momom
                                                                                                                                                             ....... ...                          DP-TbUK
                                                                                                   11r,I
               -ltl,6Elt TOWNSHIP
                                                                                                                                                                                        -NoTr- &LL C)I%,Tkge-E-.        itkoWO
                66PIT 1.0,01C14
                Pkv-KiNct LOT
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        tEb OU
                                                                                                                                                                                         kILIMOT ECftSShIt%t-V Lbf-#%
                                                                                                                                                                                          fiTkTo.
               -Ke
                                                 :4.
                                                                                                    POWANNISVNO I
                                                                                                4- -           0-,
                                                                                                            Ar

                                                                                                                                                                                                         -rk-rE FOItEST
                fo       F
               VILLN4412- OF:              oft
                DETOUIZ
                                                                                                                                                                                                     LE WhTE
                                                0 E T. 1@    R'                                                                                                                                       POISOR            -e-d-
                                     QOF-41        !.@       :                                                                                                                               All.
                                                                                      f -                     I.A
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 ftc-K
                                                                                                                                                                                                 cuFf5
                                                                                                v
                                                                                                v
                                                                                                v
                                                                       b                        v



                                                                   MARINA
                                              km"
                Dr-TOUK STkT?- rOlLfS-r C           otbulAtl
                                                                                                .,T"To
                                                                                                       ..Wtittl                .
                   25 SITES                                           L A   4'                  MARI WA / LA.IJPCH
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 DRUMMOND
                   HICE SETT%RCi                                                                prr- rAKKIN6k                        Hu'q 0 N                                                                    ISLAIJD
                                                                   L)ElOUr- LAUNCH              OL.0 FOKT DItUMMOWD ItUIMS          UUMMOND                                t-_-n
                                                                   A,NO I"AKIN4                                                     -r-Amr 44. -101 LF-T5,#s    7
       =r                                                                                                                                 I                     Ats
                                                                      F m                                                            MICa. BOT Sul'?

                                                                                                                                   ... ........




                                                                                                                                                                                                 LtICATION MAP

       19
       -4                                                                                                                                                                                   DEPARTMENT OF"CHMATZ"AAL RESOURCES
                                                                                                M



                                                                                                                                                                                                                    1)4 11
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        L


                                                                                                                                                                                                         U,











































                                                                                                                                                                                                      EAST PART
                                                                                                                                                                                                 CHIPPEWA COUNTY






    lay
                                                   '0

                                                     I-Ittle Lake Georg



                                                                                                             0
                                 u

                 SAULT
                                               If   SUGAR
            $TE. MARIE,
                                                    ISIAND CEORGE L.
      C12                                                                              Campernent D'Oum Is.
     0                                                                                                     Desba
                                                                            PUMTKIN PONT Had,
                              4.                                                                       r
                                                                               East Neebish      Marine   !r*
                                                                               Island
                                                                                       Pine Island.
                                        NICOLET L.


          W-1ska 8'                                                                              RICIIARDS
                 -Y   .A.                                                                           LANDING
                    4-11                                                                   Upb Una
                   11.1                                  Downbound        Neebish    ...S,
                                                                                           Channel
                                                          Channel               IS.                  ST. JOSEPY,
                                                                                             SAILOR'S
         cn



                                                                                 U U N U S'--
         mn                                                                                 C 0
                        MICHIGAN                                                                4vc


         Ze
         (D
                                                                                                Lime is.












                             7

              -R-
                                                                                          The St Mdrys Rivunr
                                                                                        Heritdge Wdter Trdil

          lot
            'iIIA1,011it


                 a mama





                                                                                 J",








                                                                                          41

                                                   7










                                              W,


                                                             0
               g",


                                                                              Caution: This guide is for background information only and does
                                                                              not replace the need for official navigational charts. The writer and
                                                                              the Friends of the St. Marys River will not be responsiblefor errors
                                                                              or omissions.

                                                                              S
                                                                               ome services may not be in place. Please phone.


                                                                          13
                                           Photos by Rita Valiquette'                             Canadian Water Trail






                                  Aune-Osborn Park        <                 >
                        v:-10owntolvin           -          S.W WwW FwyO Surrounding Use Areas
                          Sault Ste. Marie    ;, -.
                                                                                                             &mm@@
                                               UA
                                             -)                                                                    Rotary Park
                              Goff Course    "0
                                                                                                 Existing paved parQng/turn--around
                                                                                                 Restroom for-ilities
                                                                                                 (may require upgrade)
                                                                   0 0                           Existing drainAoq at southern end
                                                       10000
                                                        0
                                                      L9                                                          Steere Island
                                                                                                 5oathouse remnants
                                                                                                 (to L70 removed or replaced)
                                                                                                 Log e-obin strur-ture
                                                                            <-- Private We       (good condItIon, retro-fit)
                                                                              Y4/ c-ottoge       Cottoge remnants
                                                                                                 M15COlloneou5 foundations
                                                    Unnamed                                      Y4ooded uplonci
                                                             ps                                  Moderate topography
                                                                h
                                                                    Wooded U"*ande                                      Island #2
                                                              0                                  kNooded uplands at north end
                                                                                                 6rosses, Netionds on south end
                                                                                                 Potential Heron rooKerie5 vilthin
                                                                                                 v4etlands (near shore In dead trees)
                                                                                                 Cottage remnants (north end)
                                                                                                 5hallori shoreline
                                                  Boy Scout
                                                  Wand
                                                    (for sale)   t
                                                      IoNlond                                               Shipping Channel
                                                     habitat                                                         Heavy traffic-
                                                                                                                     Interesting vIeN
                                                                                                                     from Islands
                                                                              Wetlands                               Thrust from ships
                                                                                                                     turi@ulent, shoreline
                                                                                                                     CIOCKIng unfavorable


                                                                                                          Wand No. I


                                                                            R",*Of,-


                                                                   0
                                                                     0
                                                                         01.

                                                                            0
                                                                              0
                                                                               0
                                        Municipal Marina                          0
                                                                                     0      0
                                                                                       0  0
                                                                                          0
                                                                                            0



                                                               Feasibility  Study
                                                                                                                                                    14
                           WWORY AND ANALYSIS                Lower Wer Wands           C         L
                                                                                      (,C=tTANTS
                                                            Cfty of Sault Ste@ M"     C 14 G I N E E RS








             excellent connection point to the mainland. Existing features within Rotary Park include
             a playground, picnic/open lawn areas, grills, small gazebo structure, toilets, and limited
             parking, The restrooms are small and require periodic septic pumping since all waste
             is held and carried away by a septic tank pumping service. Increased demands on the
             restrooms and parking due to development on the islands would require upgrading
             these elements.

             Sugar Island is to the east of the islands and supports many cottages, homes, and a
             limited amount of commercial businesses. A portion of the Bay Mills Indian Community
             property is located within the center of Sugar Island, with much of the remaining
             property being undeveloped and/or owned by several state universities. Access to the
             island is via the Sugar Island Ferry service with docking facilities located immediately
             to the north of Rotary Park.

             The City of Sault Ste. Marie Municipal Marina is located on the mainland along
             Riverside Drive off the southern end of Island No. 2 This marina is a public facility
             which provides seasonal and transient dockage for approximately 30 watercraft. A
             public boat launch is located adjacent to the marina with dual ramps, providing access
             to the St. Mary's River.

             Water access is also provided at a launch site in Aune-Osborn Park. This city owned
             facility has approximately 100 camping sites. Eighty sites have full service hookup for
             water, sewer and electric; the remaining 20 are for group camping. It is located on the
             mainland shore, just north of the Sugar Island ferry dock by Rotary Park.


             Regulatory Agencies

             Various regulatory agencies were consulted during the analysis and planning process
             of the feasibility study. Included in these discussions were staff from the Army Corps of
             Engineers, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of
             Environmental Quality, and the State of Michigan Historical Center. A listing of permits
             and agencies for potential recreational development has also been included within the
             Natural Resource Assessment report prepared by Resource Management Group.
                                                                        I
             Due to the location of the islands within a navigable waterway, the U.S. Army Corps of
             Engineers has maintained an interest in the proposed project. The Corps has
             provided valuable reference information in the form of maps and historical data
             included within the study. Its involvement in the creation of the St. Mary's shipping
             channel has been a valuable resource in tracing the history and development of the
             islands. Concern for the island development is primarily in maintaining unobstructed
             travel within the channel. Other uses and island development were generally supported
             by the Corps. Potential bridges between Rotary Park, Steere Island and Island No. 2
             were not an issue as long as water access was maintained through the channel
             between Islands No. 1 and No. 2. Final approval will be withheld for any development
             on the islands until formal permit applications are submitted.

                                                       15








             The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Land and Water Management
             Division staff provided comments during the development of the feasibility study and a
             staff person attended the public workshop on the concept site plans for the Lower River
             Islands. Issues regarding sensitivity to heron rookeries and osprey nests have been
             addressed in the location of trails and facilities within the final concept plan. Additional
             revisions eliminate the extension of shoreline at this time, while maintaining barrier free
             pedestrian and maintenance access to the site. Discussion of the concept plan
             encourages sensitive location of fishing access and engineering of paved surfaces and
             restroom facilities as final design takes place. Future input and design review will be
             provided by the MDEQ as permits and grant funding are requested.

             The City values the heritage of the cottage culture that was an important part of the
             previous recreational use of the islands. Based on preliminary investigations, it
             appears as though the log cabin cottage is in reasonably good condition and has a
             great possibility of adaptive reuse. In order to preserve the culture, as well as satisfy
             the needs of the Michigan Historical Center, the State Histori'c Preservation Office
             Environmental Review Coordinator, Ms. Kristine Wilson, was contacted. Initial
             conversations took place and a letter requesting the basis of the Center's historical
             interests was communicated to the Center. In response, the State Historic Preservation
             Off icer provided a letter stating interests in the remaining log structure, as well as
             potential previous settlement by both Native Americans and Euroamericans. A copy of
             the State Historic Preservation Office's letter is included in Appendix B.

             Based on this interest by the Center, more formal historical and archaeological
             research may be required at the time of actual development on the islands. The extent
             and type of research will be determined based on the actual proposed development
             and requirements by the State Historic Preservation Officer.


             Natural Features


             The natural features on the islands are of extreme importance in both significance and
             beauty. Of particular interest is the identification of heron rookery sites, osprey nesting,
             beaver activity, significant vegetation, topographic information, and areas of wetlands.
             Resource Management Group (RMG) conducted the natural features inventory and
             analysis of the islands. Based on additional site visits and research, Resource
             Management Group prepared an in-depth report entitled, "Natural Resource
             Assessment for Lower River Islands Feasibility Study." Due to the in-depthness and
             extreme importance of the natural features in the analysis, the report has been included
             within the following pages rather than in the Appendix.







                                                       16












                               NATURAL RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
                                                for
                           LOWER RIVER ISLANDS FEASIBILITY STUDY

                                        City of Sault Ste. Marie
                                        Chippewa County, MI


                                             Preparedfor



                                      Capital Consultants, Inc.
                                   P.O. Box 1398, Gaylord, W 49735





                                       '4011r

                                                  jr





















                                         November 3, 1995


                                             Prepared By:
                                                 17
                                   Resource Management Group, Inc.
                                       P.O. Box 1252, Escanaba, MI 49829










                1. INTRODUCTION


                The City of Sault Ste. Marie received a grant to conduct a Lower River Islands Feasibility Study to assess
                the natural resource heritage of the Lower River Islands and plan recreational use and interpretive
                activities to feature that heritage. As part of that study, Resource Management Group, Inc. (RMG), was
                contracted by Capital Consultants to perform specific tasks encompassing Steere Island (7 acres), Island
                No. 2 (55 acres), and a small unnamed island (0.5 acre) between the two islands. These tasks included
                investigating and documenting: the extent of and activity within the known great blue heron rookery on
                Island No. 2; the occurrence of any threatened or endangered species on the three islands; the extent of
                wetlands. on the islands;. and a natural resource inventory of the islands, including any unique features
                potentially attractive to recreational pursuits.

                RMG conducted comprehensive research of collateral data sources and performed an on-site investigation
                on July 5 and team coordination/field work on October 12 and 13, 1995, and submits this report
                summarizing the natural resource features investigated on the three islands. The maps included in this
                report were supplied by Capital Consultants and adapted by RMG.



                11. NATUFRAL RESOURCES INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT


                Preliminary investigation via collateral data revealed several interesting features. First, whileall of the
                subject islands were created historically with dredged material, two soil types are mapped for the islands.
                The two smaller islands and the northern cap of Island No. 2 contain the Rockcut-Pinconning complex,
                a somewhat poorly to poorly drained loamy sand to silty clay loam. The remainder of Island No. 2
                contains the hydric Ermatinger silt loam, a poorly drained, highly organic soil. While Steere Island and
                the unnamed island exhibit considerable topographic relief (14 and 8 feet, respectively), Island No. 2
                exhibits relatively flat topography, excepting two northwest-southeast oriented ridges.




                                   ISLAND NO. 2





                       STEERF. ISLAND




                                            0






                                                                         LEGEND:
                                      UNNAMED ISLAND                     - NVETLAND A
                                                                         - WETLAND B


                                                                         - WETLAND C          200' a   200' 400' 600-


                                                                         - WETLAND D
                             Z                                           - WETLANiD E
                  I                                                 El   - UPLA;ND.                                    I
                  Figure 1. General wetland community and topographic map (2' contours) of the study islands.

                                                                 18





                AXAPC0N\LR1S.Rrr











                 Natural Resource Assessment
                 Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                 November 2, 1995
                 Page 2                                                                 Resource Managentent G Oup, Inc.

                 The majority of Steere Island and the northern portion of Island No. 2 are forested, primarily by deciduous
                 hardwoods. A northwest-southwest trending ridge on Island No. 2 is covered with coniferous forest as
                 is a small upland knoll on the southeast shore. The unnamed island is dominated by a grassy community
                 with blackberry and other herbaceous vegetation. Expanses of black ash swamps, mixed grasslands, and
                 black spruce were evident from aerial blueprints. Figure I depicts the location and extent of various plant
                 communities.


                 Heron Rookery

                 A great blue heron rookery is located in the northwest comer of Island No. 2 and was investigated by
                 RMG staff to* deterinine the extent and occupancy of nesting habitat (see Figure 2). Seven nests were
                 located in a -total of five trees, all live trembling aspen trees with a diameter at breast height between 12"
                 and 18". The two most southern trees contained three nests that appeared to have been recently used by
                 great blue herons. Two feathers, fecal stains on the tree and under recent leaf litter, and a large
                 presumably heron egg shell firagment with the embryo sac partially intact were in the immediate vicinity
                 of these two trees (see Photographs 1 & 2). The tree with one nest had conspicuously less herbaceous
                 vegetation growing under the nest than did trees without nests, an indicator of the effects of herons'
                 phytotoxic feces and curr-ent use. In addition, the nests appeared large (3' in diameter), dense, and in
                 good repair. The remaining four nests in the other three trees were less dense and lacked evidence of
                 recent use. Multiple tracks in the silty shallow water along the west shore of the island indicated recent
                 heron foraging. However, no herons were observed while at the site.














                                                                                                  w7_@-7

                                                                             16
                                                                                     - @ , 1:
                                                                         4@ .     I     I,



                                                                                                                 V7






                                      W                ix
                                                                                                          X_




                                    IF



                     Photograph   1. Two of the seven great blue heron nests observed in the heron rookery on Island No. 2.
                                                                    19



                 A:\CAPCON\LPJS-RPT











               Natural Resource Assessment
               Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
               November 2, 1995
               Page 3                                                               Resource Management Group, Inc.

               Great blue herons   generally nest in colonies ranging from a few nests to over two hundred. Upper
               Peninsular rookeries tend to contain fewer nests (i.e., up to 40 pairs) than in other more productive
               habitats, such as the upper Mississippi River floodplain.1 The viability of any given colony is usually
               dependent upon three factors:'

                        1. Colony isolation from disturbance, both human and predators
                       2. Availability of foraging areas near the colony
                       3. Natural phenomena, such as blowdowns and effects of their phytoto3dc feces

               Courtship behavior and nest building occur April-June, while hatching occurs May-July. The heron's
               migration south occurs during late summer through early fall, with few herons remaining past October.'

               Recreational planning should focus on management for optimal habitat to assure minimal disturbance to
               and encourage expansion of the heron rookery. The rookery is small and exhibits evidence of activity in
               only three of the seven nests during the current season. Nevertheless, small rookeries are the norm in
               northern climates such as Sault Ste. Marie. To maintain the viability of and optimize probability for
               expansion of the rookery, sensitivity to the three factors listed above is imperative during recreational
               planning. Therefore, RMG recommends developing a heron rookery policy in conjunction with any
               recreation plan to insure colony survival, promote its expansion, and provide an educational opportunity
               for the public, which can be compatible with colony viability. Specific recommendations based on cursory
               research are included in the Considerations for Recreational Planning section below.

               Threatened and Endangered Species

               RMG requested an Endangered Species Review through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources
               (MDNR) Natural Features Inventory (NFI). This search revealed the occurrence of only one species, the
               state-threatened osprey in the Lower River Islands area. An osprey nest is located on Island No. 1. No
               evidence to confirm use or abandorunent could be obtained within the study period.

               In addition to the NFI database check, RMG conducted an on-site search for threatened and endangered
               floral and faunal species in conjunction with other site investigation activities on October 12 and 13. No
               threatened or endangered species were discovered on the islands. With a confirmed osprey nest located
               on Island No. 1, the raptor probably ufffizes the habitat on and between other islands, especially for
               feeding on fish in the river.








                        N.A. Wood. 1949. 77ze Birds ofMichigan. U-M Press, Ann Arbor, MI: p27-29.

                       'D.H. Thompson and M.S. Landin. 1978. An aerial survey of waterbird colonies along the upper Mississippi
               River and their relationship to dredged material deposits. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Technical Report D-78-13,
               Washington, D.C. 67p + 2 appendices.                20
                       3Wood. 1949.


               AACAPc0MLRisY7r











                Natural Resource Assessment
                Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                November 2, 1995
                Page 4                                                               Resource Management Group, Inc-




















                                                                      V.


                                                                                                 jabs*



                     Photograph   2: Great blue heron egg shell fragnient (left-center foreground on base of tree trunk)
                     discovered at the base of one of the nests in the rookery in Island No. 2.


                Wetlands


                Utilizing methodologies described in. the MI)NR Draft Wetland Determination Manual and the Corps of
                Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (1987), RMG conducted a preliminary wedand determination on
                the three islands. Appro)dmate wetland boundaries am depicted on Figure L Steere Island contained two
                small wetlands: an approximately 0.27 acre wetland near the center of the western half of the island; and
                an approidmately 0.01 acre wetland swale at the far eastern point of the island. The larger wetland was
                forested with a canopy of red maple, trembling aspen, black ash, and American elm. The unnamed island
                is high at the northern end and slopes abruptly to a flat wetland area on the south end of the island. The
                small forested/shrub/scrub wetland encompasses apprwdmately 0.07 acre.

                No unique or special features were noted regarding wetland on Steere Island and the unnamed island. By
                virtue of their pro)dmity to the St. Mary's River, all wetlands on those islands are regulated by State and
                Federal wetland protection statutes.


                                                                  21





                A@ A 13@10%T VT@ V@




















                                                                                                                                                                                            ISLAND NO


                                                                                                                                         ISLAND NO. 2
                                                                                                       C1AX







                                                     PRIVATE ISLAND


                                   STEEREISLAND




                      ,p,o,rX'Ry                                                                             -,,-@[SLAND NO. 3                                                                   41     'S
                                                0                                                                                (BOY SCOUT ISLAND)
                                                                                                                                                                                              41

                                                                                          UNNAMED ISLAND


                                                          PROPOSED BRIDGE


                                                                                                                                                       LEGEND:


                                                                                                                      Great Blue Heron Rookery                                       Proposed Natur

                                                                                                                      Grcnt Blue Heron Foraging Area                   ailb--4       Proposed Fishin
                                            2001     0      200'    400'    600'                                      Wetland                                                        Proposed Boat

                                                                                                                      Beaver Lodge                                     4@            Proposed Camp

                                                                                                                      Black Ash Forest                                               Proposed Picnic


                                                                                                                      Boundary of Black Ash Forest


                    Figure 2. Key resource map for Lower River Islands.











                Natural Resource Assessment
                Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                November 2, 1995
                Page 6                                                                   Resource Management ou Jna

                Island No., 2 contained a large amount of wetland habitat, as shown in Figures I and 2. Figure I depicts
                the approximate boundaries of each of five general wetland habitats encountered on Island No. 2:

                         1. Wetland A is a strip of scrub/shrub vegetation occupying the west and part of the east
                                  shorelines and varied from 10-25' in width. Numerous seeps and drains from inland were
                                  easily observed via aerial blueprint and field-confirmed. Narrow-leaf meadowsweet,
                                  speckled alder, and fowl meadow grass (Poa palustris) were the dominant species in this
                                  zone.


                         2. Wetland B contained a mixture of conifers and hardwoods with interspersed pockets of
                                  inundation between slightly higher north-south oriented ridges. Overstory species
                                  included black spruce, trembling aspen, black ash, red maple, American elm, balsam fir,
                                  white birch, and white spruce, while understory species included spinulose woodferll@ field
                                  horsetail, sensitive fern, and red maple seedlings.

                         3. Wetland C occupied a majority of Island No. 2 and was characterized by a mosaic of black
                                  ash swamps with fowl meadow grass (P. palustris) and saturated to inundated scrub/shrub
                                  wetlands dominated by sandbar willow, speckled alder, red-osier dogwood, narrow-leaf
                                  meadowsweet, constricted sedge, woolgrass, soft rush, and fowl meadow grass. The
                                  pockets of black ash were typically inundated by up to 2' of water. However, the
                                  majority of Wetland C was scrub/shrub wetland.

                        4. Wetland D was a large expanse of saturated to inundated black ash swarnp with an herbaceous
                                  layer, when present, consisting of fowl meadow grass (P. palustris), rough-stemmed
                                  goldenrod, lake sedge, constricted sedge, and cinnamon fern, with inundation ranging up
                                  to 1.5' in depth. Black ash swamps such as this occur in depressional areas where cool
                                  air settles, thereby creating a frost pocket. This habitat is a remnarit of an ecosystem that
                                  is relatively rare in the Upper Peninsula. Growing season length, hydrology, soils, and
                                  biotic factors vary in these areas from the surrounding region, and disparate community
                                  associations are formed due to these differences.


                        5. Wetland E, found in two locations, was a trembling aspen clone habitat with redtop panic
                                  grass forming the herbaceous component. Saturation in the loamy clay soils was within
                                  12" of the surface.


                Other Resource Features


                RMG observed a variety of wildlife species via evidence of their use, such as tracks, seat, browsing, or
                travel corridors, during the on-site investigation.

                White-tailed deer tracks and evidence of browsing were observed on all three islands. An abundance of
                deer tracks remained in the shallow water along the west side of Island No. 2, and numerous deer beds
                were located on the upland knoll south of -the heron rookery. It is obvious that deer travel freely between
                the island and the  mainland finding food, cover, and security in the remote island setting.
                                                                                                                    Gr p


















































                Beavers also occur on the subject islands. Beaver cuttings of ash, varying from 1-5 years-old, in the north
                part of Island No. 2 led to the detection of an inactive lodge on the southeast side of the unnamed island.
                                                                       23

                A:\CAPC%MR1S.RPT











                Natural Resource Assessment
                Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                November 2, 1995
                Page 7                                                              Resource Management Group, Inc.

                Recent beaver cuttings of aspen and ash along the west side of Island No. 2 indicated the presence of
                nearby active lodges, two of which were found along the shore (see Figure 2). Both beaver and muskrat
                tracks and drag trails were evident along the west side of Island No. 2.

                A prominent aquatic resource within easy access of the islands is the diverse fishery of the St. Mary's
                River. During the investigation, RMG observed numerous chinook salmon and their spawning beds on
                the shoals west and south of the unnamed island. The deeper water near shorelines, especially where trees
                have fallen into the water, provides excellent smallmouth bass habitat, as evidenced by several bass
                observed by RMG fisheries biologists and other staff. A variety of other fish species either occur in the
                vicinity or have suitable habitat, including coho salmon, pink salmon, northern pike, muskellunge,
                whitefish, sucker, brown trout, largemouth bass, and Atlantic salmon, which is stocked in the region.

                While not a "natural" resource, passing freighters and other large ships within the St. Mary's Shipping
                Channel do provide an aesthetic and/or visual asset. Several areas were identified as potential vantage
                points, such as: the small cobblestone/sand beach on the southeast comer of Steere Island; and the entire
                eastern shore of Island No. 2 north of Island No. 1.


                A feature with unknown origin is located in two areas in the northern tip and in one area near the center
                of Island No. 2. Ten 6'xlO'x3' excavated/dug holes with straight sides were located in elevated areas,
                but most were filled with water. No man-made material was present in the sides, bottom, or vicinity, and
                the holes did not appear of recent origin. The random layout and small sizes of the grouped holes did
                not suggest historic building foundations, which would more likely display a pattern. RMG cannot offer
                an explanation for the excavated holes. They are reported here as a possible research topic.



                111. KEY RESOURCES


                While the Lower River Islands are themselves unique ecosystems due to their location and origin, certain
                features appeal more to the public than others. RMG identified seven such key resources available for
                incorporation into a recreational plan for the Lower River Islands (see Figure 2):

                        1. Great blue heron rookery and forage area on Island No. 2
                        2. Excellent fisheries resource adjacent to Steere Island and the unnamed island
                        3. Direct access to the St. Mary's Water Trail System
                        4. Rare black ash swamp on Island No. 2
                        5. Active beaver lodges on Island No. 2 and an inactive beaver lodge on the unnamed island
                        6. Visual appeal of the St. Mary's River Shipping Channel
                        7. Osprey nest on adjacent Island No. 1

                Each of these key resources has particular value and can be readily incorporated into a comprehensive
                recreational plan for the islands. Some suggestions appear in the following section.



                IV. CONSIDERATIONS FOR RECREATIONAL PLANNING


                During the investigation and subsequent analysis of information collected at the Lower River Islands,
                RMG staff generated several ideas and considerations for recreational development planning. The various
                                                              24

                A:\CAPC0N\MUSY11r










                Natural Resource Assessment
                Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                November 2, 1995
                Page 8                                                                 Resource Management Group, Inc.

                features are diagrammed in Figure 2. These considerations were formulated with the overall idea of
                allowing the recreating public to view unique aspects of the islands' natural resource base while enhancing
                their appreciation for these resources.

                Great Blue Herons


                A primary consideration in planning interpretive features regarding the great blue heron rookery is to
                minimize human disturbance. Literature and personal contacts with great blue heron researchers suggest
                a 300' buffer is the minimum buffer to be considered. To afford appropriate protection for the viability
                of the small heron colony, we suggest that no interpretive features be installed on Island No. 2.
                Alternatively, a viewing platform with a spotting scope could be installed on the unnamed island with a
                vantage toward the colony. Interpretive boards could be installed adjacent to the viewing platform. The
                western shoreline of Island Number 2, a primary heron foraging area, should remain wholly undisturbed.


                Trails/Camping

                Because of its size and variety of habitats, Island No. 2 offers the best opportunity for hiking/interpretive
                trails and camping facilities. Refer to Figure 2 for the location of a proposed loop trail to access the
                northeast portion of Island Number 2. The suggested trail route takes advantage of existing upland to the
                extent possible. Where an elevated boardwalk or fill would be necessary to traverse wetland, Federal and
                State permits would be required. Hikers would be exposed to a number of vegetative communities
                including a grassland/hardwood mosaic, an aspen clone, and the large black ash swarrip occurring near
                the center of the island. The variety of habitats would afford opportunities to view a wide variety of birds
                and other wildlife. Warblers and other songbirds could be observed feeding and nesting, an assortment
                of mammals from squirrels and chipmunks to white-tailed deer utilize the habitats along the route, and,
                in areas offering a view of the waterfront, hunting ospreys or other raptors would be visible. Interpretive
                boards along the route could explain the various life-cycle functions of selected species and their
                dependence on the particular habitat at designated locations. Since there is an abundance of wetland
                habitat acreage of various types, an enhancement for appreciation for that vital landscape feature could
                easily be incorporated. Consideration was given to the construction of a boardwalk/trail to access the
                active beaver lodges but was eliminated as not feasible due to the excessive length (600+') and associated
                cost.


                Two potential campsite locations are recommended, one in the "interior" and one on the exterior of Island
                No. 2. The "interior" location indicated on Figure 2 is where the upland ridge widens in proximity to the
                black ash swamp. The other area near the north end of the island offers a view of the St. Mary's River
                Shipping Channel and related freighter traffic. Campsites should insure maximum separation from the
                great blue heron rookery.


                Fisheries and Boating

                Since it is located on the St. Mary's Water Trail System, boat access to the islands is an important
                consideration. Boat access must be planned in light of several important factors, including minimization
                of disturbance to the heron rookery, access to key resource interpretive areas, and safety of boats and
                boaters. Considering those restrictions, two locations for boat docking are suggested. The first is on
                AACAPCON\LRIS."T                                  25










                 Natural Resource Assessment
                 Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                 November 2, 1995
                 Page 9                                                                Resource Management      Group, Inc.

                 Steere Island. A permanent dock with floating finger piers could be constructed along the west shore of
                 the island. That site offers direct access to boaters utilizing the St. Mary's Water Trail System, shelter
                 from the wakes of freighter traffic, and a prime fishery area. A fishing pier, either cantilevered over the
                 water or skid-pier type construction for removal in the winter, is also recommended adjacent to the boat
                 dock in this locale. As mentioned earlier in this report, RMG biologists identified and observed significant
                 numbers of chinook salmon and smallmouth bass along the western shore of Steere Island. Therefore,
                 the suggested location is a logical one for the fishing pier and allows fishing and viewing of salmon
                 during spawning season, a popular activity even for non-fishermen.

                 The second suggested boat docking location is along the east shore of Island No. 2 (see Figure 2). This
                 dock would be exposed to the wash of passing freighters, so again a permanent dock along the shoreline
                 with floating finger piers is recommended. This docking facility would allow hikers and campers to dock
                 in proximity to trail and camping areas. To complement recreation and concentrate impact, a picnic area
                 with tables, vault toilets, barbecue grills, and refuse barrels could be constructed near the docks.

                 Regulatory

                 Any activity within wetlands on the study islands, including filling, dredging/excavating, draining, or
                 construction will require a permit from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) under
                 authority of Part 303 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (PA 451 of 1994) and
                 a corresponding permit from the Corps of Engineers (Corps) under authority of Section 404 of the Clean
                 Water Act. Facilities such as piers/docks or platforms, which extend over the bottomland of the St.
                 Mary's River to enhance fishing or boating opportunities, will also require State and Federal permits.
                 MDEQ regulates such activities, including filling below the Ordinary High Water Mark (579.8' IGLD-
                 1955) under authority of Part 325 of Act 451 of 1994. Corresponding Federal authority is embodied in
                 Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.


                 When planning such facilities, contact with RMG or those agencies is recommended to clarify regulating
                 questions.


                 Other Considerations


                 To enhance access by non-boaters, Steere Island and the unnamed island could be interconnected with
                 bridges, with the chain originating at Rotary Park. Bridges over or on the bottom of the St. Mary's River
                 would require permits from State and Federal regulatory agencies. To increase the probability of pen-nit
                 issuance, bridges, if proposed, should be clear-span wherever feasible. To protect the heron rookery from
                 direct pedestrian access, a bridge between the unnamed island and Island No. 2 is not recommended and
                 is, in fact, discouraged.

                 Budgetary considerations always rank as a primary factor in community recreational planning. To at least
                 partially mitigate the cost of construction of features recommended above, RMG suggests the following:

                         1. Establish a "points" program where voluntary labor is exchanged for free camping permits or
                         other rewards donated by local businesses. Potential sources of voluntary labor include local
                         conservation and civic organizations, charity groups, and scouting organizations.
                                                                    26




                 A TAPCOMULIS.RPT










                 Natural Resource Assessment
                 Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                 November 2, 1995
                 Page 10                                                                 Resource Management Grou , Inc.

                          2. Utilize persons performing "community service" time for construction and/or maintenance
                          activities.



                 SUMMARY


                 The Lower River Islands host a number of unique and special features, such as a great blue heron rookery,
                 a black ash swamp, excellent fisheries, access to the St. Mary's Water Trail System, and the visual
                 experience of freighter traffic in the Shipping Channel. These resources can be "employed" to enhance
                 the quality of life of residents and visitors to Sault Ste. Marie. Potential recreational facilities identified
                 by RMG to enhance appreciation for the natural resources on the study islands include a nature/interpretive
                 trail, a campground, a viewing platform for the heron rookery, a fishing pier, docks, and a picnic area,
                 all easily accessed by users of the St. Mary's Water Trail System. Providing access to the unique solitude
                 of the subject islands and yet preserving the natural resource heritage that makes them attractive to hurnans
                 requires delicate balancing. It is hoped that the information and suggestions provided in this report will
                 contribute toward the City of Sault Ste. Marie's goal of providing quality recreational experiences with
                 the underlying theme of natural resources stewardship.



















                 AACAPCOMLRIS."T                                      27








             Comm!   ttee Brainstorming Session and Design Intent


             On July 20, 1995 the Feasibility Study Committee met to continue with the development
             of the study by holding a brainstorming session. The meeting began with a review and
             discussion of the visit to the islands by the committee and the site analysis data
             collected to date. The purpose of the session was to collect various ideas for the
             development of the islands. Discussion took place with each item as it was presented.
             The Committee's list of ideas are summarized below.


                   Unique Features of the Islands
                          Interesting flora and fauna
                          Previous resort/cottage culture
                          Heron rookery site
                          Islands are adventurous places
                          Adjacent shipping channel and freighter "watching"
                          A site along the St. Mary's River Water Trail
                          Too many Canadian Geese and Seagulls as a problem

                   Access Methods
                          Bridges to the Islands which link either one island or all islands
                          Docks for boats
                          People ferry
                          Causeway of land connecting islands
                          Self propelled raft (like at Spring State Park)
                          Rental boats and canoes (from Marina or Rotary Park)
                          People aerial lift (like at ski resort)
                          Car access for island users was ruled out


                   Types of Bridges
                          Bridge with lifting portion to allow passage of pleasure crafts
                          Concern over level of winter ice'
                          Clearspan bridges
                          Causeway to narrow area of land to be spanned by bridge
                          Roll out retractable dock bridges

                   Island Activities
                          Picnic areas
                          Wetland walkway
                          Rustic camping
                          Hiking
                          Boat docks
                          Fishing piers
                          Unique features signage
                          Biking paths
                          Bike racks


                                                       28








                          Cross country skiing
                          Interpretive signage
                          Group activity area
                          Observation tower
                          Playground
                          Story telling/star gazing area
                          Open play area

                   Loa Cabin Use
                          "Ghost structures'
                          Rental for overnights and day use for non-profit groups
                          Concession
                          Visitors center/interpretive building of cottage culture
                          Warming building
                          Sault cultural history museum


            Based on the brainstorming session, the Committee easily developed a consensus
            regarding the overall proposed development basis for the islands. In summary, the
            consensus included the following basis of understanding:

                   Recreational use will be more intense on Steere Island with a step down to less
                          intense usage of the Unnamed Island  and Island No. 2.
                   Sensitivity to natural areas should concentrate use on Island No'. 2 to upland
                          areas thereby limiting intrusion into the wetland areas.

                   Natural features and previous resort cottage culture should be included in the
                          interpretation.

                   Interaction with the St. Mary's River Trail and shipping channel will remain
                          important.

                   Recreational uses will be more passive in nature.














                                                       29








              Concept Plan Development


              The conceptual plan design process involved incorporating the results of the
              brainstorming session and the site inventory and analysis information into the
              preparation of three separate site plans, Concepts A, B, and C. These concept
              alternatives reflected several common themes, but included different details and design
              elements to assist the committee in clarifying what the final plan might include. These
              concepts are depicted and explained in greater detail in Appendix F.

              In general, all three concepts encompassed a common approach for Steere Island, with
              some variations. Some of the distinctionsbetween the concepts included variations in
              access. Concept A included bridge linkages between all of the islands as well as an
              optional filling and extension of Rotary Park to lessen the distance between Rotary
              Park and Steere Island. Other options included limited access by bridge to Steere
              Island with no bridges being extended to the Unnamed Island and Island No. 2. The
              design of the bridge structures also ranged from smaller light weight pedestrian bridges
              to those which could accommodate a small pickup truck for routine maintenance.

              Common features in the three concepts for Steere Island included a circumferential
              pathway, interpretive signage, fire bowl, fishing docks, picnicking, and adaptive reuse
              of the log cabin structure. Adaptive reuses of the log cabin structure included uses for
              interpretation of the island culture and natural resources, a site for group overnight
              lodgings, and a possible concession and    'restroom facility. Variations between the
              concepts also included differences in the level of visitor activity on the island ranging
              from passive walking uses, to more active use with playground structures and group
              picnicking.

              The design approaches for Island No. 2 varied somewhat, but again included some
              common themes. Camping areas were shown with the options of grouping the sites
              into a larger campingarea to accommodate both individual as well as group camping,
              as well as separate campsites for individuals and groups with locations varying from
              the shore side to more interior island locations. Pedestrian pathways were included in
              all of the concepts but varied in individual routings and in pathway materials from
              woodchips, limestone, to bituminous pavement. Some of the distinctive features of the
              three Concepts included a greater or lesser emphasis on group activities including the
              layout of camping, picnic shelters, and the inclusion of a challenge ropes course, to the
              lesser level of activity with individual picnicking sites. As mentioned above, access to
              Island No. 2 varied with the use of full barrier free bridge structures to access via boat
              transportation only.

              Following a subsequent review session by the committee, a composite plan,
              Concept D, was developed as the mark-up plan for further detailing. This Concept D
              reflected the committee's choice of preferred features from the three earlier concepts
              which included but was not limited to the use of bridges between all three islands, the
              passive use of Steere Island for W'alking/biking, interpretation, reuse of the log cabin for

                                                          30








             interpretation, fishing, and picnicking, and the use of Island No. 2 for walking,
             interpretation, grouped camping, and picnicking. This Concept D is further detailed
             and explained in Appendix F, along with preliminary cost estimates.

             With additional detailed natural*resource information provided by Resource
             Management Group, Inc., further information provided to the committee -after a public
             workshop on the plan, and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality review and
             comments, Concept D was modified andarticulated into a Concept E that reflected a
             few significant changes from the mark-up plan, specifically, the Rotary-Steere bridge
             was raised to a 16 foot clearance for boat traffic and the use of an extended shoreline
             as shown in Concept A was eliminated in favor of a much longer bridge that would not
             involve any filling or extension of the Rotary Park land base. Equally as significant, the
             Uridge connections to Island No. 2 and the small island between No 2 and Steere
             Island were eliminated due to the proximity of the heron rookery at the northerly end of
             Island No. 2.


             This Concept E was given some final adjustments at a committee meeting on
             November 28, 1995, at which time the entire plan.was reviewed in detail. The Plan
             Development section below, describes the Concept E Plan as modified and elaborated
             at this final committee meeting.





























                                                       31








            The Plan of Development


            In finalizing the master plan several key considerations were evaluated including the
            previous concepts, the natural resource inventory, and comments received from the
            Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the Michigan Historical Center, the
            U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Steering Committee, and comments from the
            citizens at the public workshop as well as conceptual cost estimates. The general
            focus of development is to provide easy access to Steere Island via the use of bridges
            for recreational walking and biking, interpretation of the past cottage culture, picnicking,
            and fishing, with the use of Island No. 2 as a more remote island with limited access via
            boats for rustic camping, hiking, and wildlife observation.


            Key Issues Addressed in the Plan

            Several controlling issues needed to be addressed as part of the design development
            for the Lower River Islands. These are summarized below, together with a discussion
            and explanation of the alternatives considered and the rationale for the final choices
            made.



            Access to Steere Island


            The precise method of providing access to Steere Island involved a wide-ranging
            review of all alternatives. The various options and decisions are summarized below:

                   a. Bridge vs. Other options: Several options for access to the Islands were
            discussed in the initial brainstorming session of the Steering Committee. These
            included water taxis and ferry services, rope bridges, floating docks as well as bridge
            options. It was determined that the easiest form of access for park visitors to use would
            be the bridges. The bridges will allow for unlimited access which is year round since
            no operator is required nor is an open channel required. People will be able to freely
            access on and off from the Island at their desire. The bridges can also be gated and
            locked for night time security.

                   b. Type of bridge: Bridge types discussed ranged from light weight pedestrian
            only bridges to more heavy duty bridges which will accommodate vehicular traffic. It
            was determined that the bridges must be at least eight feet wide to accommodate to
            passing wheel chairs. A width of ten feet will allow a small service pick up truck to
            access the island for maintenance. The final recommendation was for a ten foot wide
            bridge designed structurally to carry a 10,000 lb vehicle load.

                   c. Construction Method: The easiest form of construction will be to design the
            bridges to be clear span from Rotary Park to Steere Island which will not require a


                                                       32









              bridge abutment within the river channel. This will require a premanufactured steel
              bridge structure but will reduce the actual on-site construction required within the
              channel. The extension of Rotary Park shown on Concepts A and D initially appealed
              to the Committee. However, after further consideration, the Committee opted for a
              bridge over the entire distance from Rotary Park to Steere Island rather than the land
              extension which would change the waterway configuration.

                     d. Height of Bridge: The bridges were initially presented with a design height
              Of 10' of clearance from the water level to the bottom of the bridge structure. This
              height was provided by the Army Corps of Engineers as an elevation that would allow
              for surges in water level, clearance regarding ice build up, and a height to allow smaller
              pleasure craft to pass under. (Since access for larger pleasure craft and sailboats is
              available to the south of Island No. 2, access for all boats was not a concern to the
              Corps). Based on the comments received at the public workshop, it was determined
              that a 16' bridge height would accommodate larger pleasure craft equipped with radio
              antennas. The committee decided to increase the height of the bridge height from 10'
              to 16'. The increased height of the bridge will increase the bridge development costs in
              regard to the need to add additional pathway ramping to accommodate barrier free
              access to the bridge and island.

                     e. Selected Version: The final selected version of access to Steere Island is
              the utilization of a 16' high clear span bridge 10' in width which will accommodate
              pedestrians and a light weight pick up maintenance truck. The bridge will extend from
              the existing south end of Rotary Park to Steere Island. Permits from the U.S. Army
              Corps of Engineers and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality will be
              required for construction of bridges or placement of fill.

                     f. Cost Implications: Four options of bridge construction were evaluated
              regarding access to Steere Island. Both 10' and 16' height clearance from the water to
              the bottom of the bridge structure were evaluated for both filling and no-filling options to
              the end of Rotary Park. Without the filling in Rotary Park, additional bridge sections
              will be required to accomplish the 16'height and to maintain barrier free access. The
              bridge construction is premanufactured clear spanning truss bridges. The bridges have
              an arched chamfer where the highest portion of the arch meets the height
              requirements. The basic layout of the bridge is shown in the sketch immediately
              following. The conceptual costs can be summarized below.

                     10' Bridge Height with f illing of Rotary Park (100' long)              $105,000
                     10' Bridge Height without filling of Rotary Park ( 300' long)           $300,000
                     16' Bridge Height with filling of Rotary Park ( 250' long)              $340,000
                     16' Bridge Height without filling of Rotary Park (300' long)            $364,000






                                                           33






                                           Park...."
                                                   E     C) @)LL)



                                         ZD                                                E56-W.-Lo-il.4
                                         1, L )               150,       1/





      CO
      46                              DTA-tf 7i 2 f A,11                          MAI
                         1@&UTmgwr




                              A'r SSO 1-7 vj4V,4Z '-FVSL-



                              6uftlZT LOAQ)W-j FbR FnA)NTTT--NMNCf-= VF-A)(,LF,47



                                                                                                               =:too
         CCAPITAL                                                                                            )40p_) Z,.
             ONSULTANTS
         E N G I N E E R S









             Access to Small Unnamed Island and Island No. 2


             Access to Island No. 2 and the small Unnamed island between Steere and Island No. 2
             also involved a review of different alternatives.

                    a. Bridge vs. Other options: Several options to provide access to Island No. 2
             from Steere Island were discussed. These options included the construction of similar
             bridge structures which would include a bridge from Steere Island to the Unnamed
             Island and a second bridge from the Unnamed Island to Island No. 2. The cost for the
             two bridge structures was estimated at $160,000.

              Also considered were access by private boats via the use of a dock on Island No. 2,
             water-taxis or ferry services from Rotary Island, Steere Island, or the Municipal Marina.
             Boat and canoe rentals from the Marina were also discussed. The bridge options have
             the highest initial construction cost but as discussed earlier allow for unlimited year
             round access for park users. The taxi services will require ongoing daily maintenance
             and operational costs, are seasonal to the summer months only, introduce other liability
             and insurance issues, but would enhance the "island experience"for visitors. Any
             bridge landings or dockage points for the boats require consideration of the identified
             heron rookery on the northwest end of Island No. 2. Boat rentals from Steere Island
             were not seriously considered due to area water currents and the proximity of the
             shipping channel.

                    b. Selected Version: The final plan includes a water taxi service to provide
             access from Steere Island to Island No. 2. A water taxi service would emphasize the
             park's island character and can be located toward the easterly side of Island No. 2
             away from the heron rookery. To facilitate the taxi and boats, boat docks are proposed
             on the south side of Steere Island and the northeast end of Island No. 2 with both boat
             docks located on the channel between the two islands. The bridge option may be re-
             evaluated in the future once the first phase of development (Rotary Park/Steere Island)
             is complete and access/use parameters can be better defined. Protection of the heron
             rookery will continue to be a consideration in any bridge placement.


             Old Island Structures


             As was discussed in the Site Inventory and Analysis section of the plan, the previous
             use of the islands was for resort cottages which has provided a background for the
             interpretation of the cottage culture prevalent in the area from the 1920's to 1960's.
             Remnants of these cottages still remain on the islands with the most prominent being
             the log cabin located on Steere Island facing Rotary Park.

                    a. Significance to Plan: Based on the Site Inventory and Analysis it was
             determined that the remnants of the cottage structure offered a unique window into this
             once dominant culture to the islands and would be very interesting to interpret to


                                                         35








             visitors. The log cabin on Steere Island remains in relatively good condition and is
             suitable for renovation and reuse.


                    b. The Log Cabin: The log cabin is a two story building with a main living room
             and kitchen on the first floor and bedrooms and a bathroom on the second story.
             Outbuildings are also attached to the main structure. The building appears to be in
             reasonable condition with the 'roof being able to keep the rain out. All doors and
             windows are missing within the building. Options discussed for the reuse of the
             building included use as a restroom and concession for the park, a lodging for
             overnight retreats, and as an interpretive center. It was determined that at this time, no
             utilities or restroom facilities will be proposed for Steere Island, therefore limiting many
             of the options for use of the log cabin. The selected adaptive reuse- of the cottage will
             be to open the first floor of the cabin as a shelter and interpretive center for the island
             without restrooms or electricity.


















                                        .4



                               7j












                                                               lip:




                        Log Cabin Structure on Steere Island as viewed from Rotafy Park


                                                        36









                     C. "Ghost Structures" vs. Interpretive Signage: In order to interpret the other
              remnant of the cottage structures on the islands, two options were discussed. The first
              option being the use of interpretive signage and graphics to illustrate the other previous
              buildings, owners, and resort activities, and the second the use of pole-like "ghost
              structures" to define the previous structures. It was determined that the sole use of
              interpretive signage with maps, drawings, graphics, and possibly photos, could
              significantly provide insight to visitors to the island.


              Natural Features on Island No. 2


              Island No. 2 provides a unique blend of natural features including the heron rookery
              and beaver dam as well as the Black Ash grove and the wetland systems. These
              features provide an opportunity to vary the trail experience and interpret the features
              along the walk. Island No. 2 also provides the opportunity for remote rustic camping
              and trail exploration.


              Utilities and Lighting on Islands

              The installation of utilities and lighting of the two main islands was discussed. These
              discussions included the need for water and sanitary sewer, as well as electricity for
              lighting of the log cabin and possible decorative lighting along the pathway. It was
              decided that for the current planning no utilities will be extended to the islands. Rustic
              toilet facilities will be provided on Island No. 2, but at this time no facilities will be
              provided on Steere Island. The possibility of attaching the utilities to the bridge
              structures were discussed, and this option will remain for consideration in the future.






















                                                         37









              The Plan in Detail



              This section of the plan includes a detailed description of the master plan developed for
              the islands. A graphic of the plan, titled Concept E, is included on the following page
              for easy reference.


              Rotary Park Development

              Although initially not included within the development of the islands, several
              improvements will be required within Rotary Park in order to help support the usage of
              the islands. Once connected, the islands and Rotary Park may be considered portions
              of one continuous recreational area.


                     a. Parking: The parking in Rotary Park is currently quite limited and
              unorganized. In the master plan it is proposed that the parking area be expanded and
              improved to provide parking for the increased park and island use. The plan proposes
              a 28 space bituminous paved parking lot. Improvements to the drives have not been
              included at this time.

                     b. Bathrooms: Rotary Park currently is served by rustic public restrooms which
              are located along the drive in the northern region of the park. It is proposed that new
              rustic restrooms be constructed more to south in the park to better serve both Rotary
              Park and Steere Island. The barrier-free restrooms will have a men's and women's
              stall. A sketch of the restrooms is provided on page 40. As the cost to construct public
              utilities to the park is quite prohibitive at this time, the replacement restrooms will also
              be rustic. At such time that utilities are more available, modern restrooms should be
              considered.


                     c. Bridge Over the Drainway: In between the parking area and the small island
              leading to Steere Island is a small drainway that at certain times of the year contains
              flowing water. A small 20' bridge is proposed to cross this drainage way. The bridge
              will be built of similar construction to the other bridge(s) and will be 10' wide with the
              structural capability to allow for a small pick-up truck.

                     d. Paved Path: A 10'wide bituminous paved path is proposed to provide
              access from the parking lot to the bridges. The pathway will require grading for barrier
              free slopes.








                                                            38




        = a



        ru HIM 31870M
        PM Qm 2-*."

                                                                                                                                                                                                     Site Master Plan
                                                                                                                                                                                                    Concept "E"
                                                                      0       1                                   ro                                                                                  2W           0          200         400         GOO
                                                                             0                                            0


                                                                                                                          0
                                                                                                              PARKING
                                                                      100                        4)                       0                                                                                               Rotary Park
                                                                                                                          0                                                  *1    AcIditionol porkIne/Improve, existline
                                                                                  BR E                         RESTROOMS                                                           Upgrade restrooms
                                                                                                                     0
                                                                       0                                       0 0                                                                 E3ridgc over droinNoy
                                                                                  BRII G                  0                                                                        flovod path to 5horoline,
                                                                                                      0
                                                        0                 NEW BOAT DOCK                                                                                                                                Steere Island
                                                                                                    LOG
                                                            4%        CW              0              FIREBO                                                                        C.,Ieor5pan bridee,5 For boot clearonce
                                                                      0            0
                                                                      00         0                   LIM ONE                                                                       Accessible path@Noy around perimeter
                                                                                    0    FISHING     PATH                                                                          Barrier free, f15hine platform
                                                                                         0                                          <- Private Island                              DockIne area at boathouse remnants
                                                                           0                     0>              I&VtR                                                             Improve, Log Coloin For:
                                                                        0                                                                                                          Shelter ond
                                                                      0         Unnamed                                                                                            Visitors Center (cottoge culture, atc)
                                                                      0                                                                                                            Benches / picnic areas along trail
                                                                      0                              B                                                                             Interpretive sienoge, / lookouts
                                                                                                    DAM          BLUE HERON
                                                                      0                                            ROOKERY                                                         INator taxi lancline
                                                                                                                                                                                   Fire-bovil
                                               0                      0                                                                                                                                                              Island #2
                                                                      0
                                                                      0                                                                                                            rluster compine area (1-ro sites)
                                                                      0                                                                                                 6           Primitive restrooms
                                                                      0                                                     WOOD-CHIA                                              Interpretive signoee / overlooks
                                                                      0                                                       PATH                                                 5anchcs / pir-nic areas alone troll
                                                                      0                                                                                                            V@ater taxi landine / boot dock
                                                                      0                                                                                                            @Nood-chip trolls throuc3h Noodlande
                                                                      0        Boy Scout                                                CA14P                                      ToNer overlooking 5hippine channel,
                                                                      0              Island                                                                                        vqoodlands and vqctlond habitat
                                                                                                                                                                                   5oorclv4olk trail and platform
                                                                      0                                                      BLACK ASH                                             in Notlancis
                                                                                                                                FOREST

                                                                                                                                                        T WEIR
                                                                      0
                                                                      00
                                                                       0                                                                A.             BOARDWALK
                                                                         0                                                                                                                                   0

                                                                                                                                                       Jk
                                                                                                                                                              LATFORM                                            011
                                                                                  0  0                                                  wetl           s                                                          @Ij
                                                                                         0                                                                                                                     Interpretive Key:

                                                                                                                                                                                              a                SIGNAGE TO BE LOCATED AT PICNIC/SEATING
                                                                                                 0                                            r                                                                OVERLOOK AREAS WITH INTERPRETIVE INFORMATION
                                                                                                                                        40@11 -                                                                AS DESCRIBED BELOW:
                                                                                                                                        1?0 -        Ike
                                                                                                        0                         1','                                                                                     REGIONAL SAULT CULTURE AND HISTORY
                                                                                                           0                            Jk    dk
                                                                                                                                                                                                             -Z:Z@         SUGAR ISLAND SETTLEMENT AND CURRENT
                                                                                                 0                                                               -Ike                                                      USES
                                                                                                                   0                                                                                                       OBSERVATION OF HERON ROOKERY AND FEEDING
                                                                                                                          0                   Jk                                                                           AREA, BEAVER DAM AND FISHING HOLE
                                                                                             0                                                                     le              -Island -No. -_       1@  -zZZZ:E@@-KSTORY--AND-CURRENT DEVELOPMENT-OF-444E-
                                                                                                                                JIA - - --                                                                                 ST. MARY'S RIVER TRAIL
                                                                                                                              0 V.                          -1k
                   Cj)                                                                           0 0                               04.0-1                                                                                  ST. MARY'S RIVER TRAJL MARKER
                                                                                                                                        I
                                                                                                 0                                      00                                                                                 CREATION OF SHIPPING CHANNEL, CURRENT USE
                                                                                                                                                                                                             -Zzzl@@       SHIPPING TRADE AND LOCAL ECONOMY
                                                                                                                                              0111.                       A                                                BLACK ASH FOREST AND UPLAND HABITAT
                                                                                                                                                  19                                                                       ISLAND FORMATION, REGIONAL GEOGRAPHY
                                                                                                             #0                                 0                                                                          WETLAND HABITAT AND ECOSYSTEMS
                                                                                                                                                    A                      0                                         8
                                                                                                                  00                                    %P
                                                 Municipal Marina                                                                                       0                 0
                                                                                                                                                                                                             0
                                        (boot                         conoe, rental)                                      0                                 0            0                          0 0      0
                                                                                                 501                 .    1-                                    0                                      00
                                                                                                                                                  <0      0     0  0   0
                                                                                                                                                                           0                                              00






                                                                                                                                                                                                                        RE"SIONS                             DATE SCALE:           V.
          -L     W                                                                                       Feasibility Study                                                                        LANSIM MOMM 48M
          0      :1                                                                                                                                                   AprrAL                      517-@-
          '4     M                SITE MASTER PLAN                                                    Lower River Islands                                          ONSULTA                        114 EkST MAIN STREET                                               PROJ. NO.; 95--187.01
                 M                                                                                                                                                                    NTS
                                                                                                  City of Sault Ste. Marie                                                               R S      G517y-A7312% 40131 w 42m                                           -DATE:         Jku/95
































                                              Barrier-free Restroom






                                                   VEXT



        ROCF OVERHANol                                                      fia
                                              PRESVJLDW
                                             MLL7                           GRAB BAR
                                             COWMME) T





                                      MEN'S H/C                      WOMEN-S H/C
                                                      90
                                      WASHROOM      .1               WASHROOM


                                                                           HhxcwkslH
                                                                           tjmrT (Tip-)
                                                      V







                                                co
                                                -10








                                                      40









            Steere Island Development

            Steere Island is the middle island located directly south of Rotary Park and will be the
            landing point of the connection bridge from Rotary Park and will have a more intensive
            use by visitors than Island No. 2.

                   a. Bridge Development: As discussed previously, a bridge will be constructed
            to connect Rotary Park and Steere Island. The bridge will be fully barrier free
            accessible, 10' wide, and be structurally designed to carry a small pick up truck for
            maintenance. The bridge will span the entire channel and be constructed out of steel
            with wood decking and handrails. The length of the bridge will be approximately 300
            lineal feet. A photo of a similar structure is shown below.





                                                N



                                                       r



                                                                                      1' -4
                                              4A



                                                                                       IA2


                                  7-1
                                                  V



                                              z@


                                                    L
                                  Sunbi@lt Qo1f, '0@17, @0     -of.3 @imilar Bridget)

                                          Example of a bridge structure


            Due to design limitations regarding the length of such bridges, two bridge units will be
            required. A concrete pier with protective riprap is proposed to support the two bridge
            units. Additional ramps are also proposed at each end of the bridge to achieve a
            clearance height of 16'.








                                                       41






















                                                                            C9
















                                                                         sill-





                                                                                         vc@


                                      Sketch of Island Perimeter Pathway

                   b. Pathway around Perimeter: A barrier free pathway will be constructed
             around the perimeter of Steere Island and one pathway that bisects the island for a
             total of 2,200 lineal feet. The pathway will be 10'wide and constructed of rolled
             crushed limestone material to provide a barrier free surface. Bituminous material is not
             proposed due to the difficulty in constructing the path with limited access for large
             equipment and hot bituminous mix.

                   c. Lookouts, Benches and Picnic Areas: Twelve benches and three picnic
             tables have been included to be placed around Steere Island. The exact locations
             should be selected at the time in which the actual pathway is laid out in order to take
             full advantage of the scenic views and restful spots.

                   d. Barrier free Fishing Platform: A fishing platform has been proposed for the
             west side of Steere Island. The platform will extend over the water surface to allow for
             shoreline fishing. The platform size will be approximately 10'wide by 20'long and will
             be constructed out of wood members. The platform and access to the platform will be
             designed in accordance with barrier free standards. A concept sketch of the platform is
             shown on the following page. Permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
             Michigan Department of Environmental Quality will be required.

                                                       42






                                                             -IM
                                                                           ALA
                                                              Mnz


















                                          Barrier free fishing plafform.

                   e. Docking Locations (Boat House and Water Taxi): Two docking locations
            will be developed on Steere Island. The first proposed structure will be located at the
            previous site of an old boat house on the northwest end of the island. This new
            structure will require barrier free access. Permits to construct the docking facility will
            be required from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Michigan Department of
            Environmental Quality. It has been discussed that this would be a fitting location to
            dock as it will replicate the docking location for the original cottage owners of the log
            cabin. The design of this structure would be most interesting if it could replicate the
            original structure. A photo of the structure is shown on the following page, although
            fewer remnants now exist.


            A second dock will be needed on the south side of the island to accommodate the
            proposed water taxi to Island No. 2. The final design plan will need to consider barrier
            free access, the specific vessel, and commercial operation details. Further analysis will
            be required prior to construction.

                   f. Log Cabin Use: As discussed previously, the log cabin will be renovated into
            a shelter and interpretive center for the island. The cabin will not be serviced by
            utilities. The 20'x 40':t cabin will require improvements to the outside shell and roof,
            new doors, new windows, as well as interpretive materials. At the time of development
            a further architectural survey should be completed. An archaeological research report
            may also be considered. A picture of the front porch is on the following page.




                                                       43
























                                              AL
                                                     Ak


                                           7














                                            Boat house remnants.




























                                             Log cabin front porch.



                                                      44








                   g. Fire-bowl: On the eastern end of the island a group fire-bowl and interpretive
            classroom area has been included. The bowl was placed on the eastern end of the
            island to place it away from the city lights and limit disturbance of the heron rookery.
            The bowl area will be approximately 100' in diameter with timber benches arranged
            around the center and will accommodate approximately 50-75 people. The bowl area
            will provide an area for stargazing, outdoor education classes, as well as a group
            campfire area.

                   h. Interpretive Signage: Interpretive signage has been proposed for both
            Steere and Island No. 2. Proposed signage will include text, graphics, maps, and
            possible photos to present the information. Materials such as silkscreened metal or
            plexi-glass materials which allow a high level of detail should be considered. A sketch
            of possible signage is shown below.

            Signage is proposed for the interior of the log cabin with information relating to the
            cottage culture. The cost for this signage has been included in the allowance for the
            cottage renovation.

            Additional signage is proposed for the sites identified by number on the site plan
            Interpretive Key. Signage keyed No. I is located at the northeast end of Steere Island
            and describes the regional Sault culture and history. Signage keyed No. 2 is located
            on the eastern shoreline facing Sugar Island and provides information regarding the
            Sugar Island settlement and current land uses. Signage keyed No. 3. is located near
            the water taxi landing on the south end of the island and provides interpretation and
            observation of the heron rookery and feeding area, the beaver dam, and the fishing
            site. A fourth area, keyed No. 4, is located at the site of the boat house remnant and
            new dock and provides interpretation of the history and current development of the St.
            Mary's River Trail.





                                                                        A@
                                   V. LUM













                                                      45









            Island No. 2 Development

            It is the intent of thd plan that development on Island No. 2 will be less intensive with
            more.limited access than that on Steere Island. Island No. 2 development includes
            nature trails, camping, and picnicking.










                                                                 oil
                                                                                          iIr



















                                          Woodchip woodland path.



                  a. Trail Development: The pathway system on Island No. 2 provides a loop
           along three sides of the island and cuts across the mid point of the island maintaining
           the trail on the upland areas. The trail as proposed will be 10' wide and constructed
           from wood and bark chips. The pathway is approximately 3,250 lineal feet and also
           connects the camping area to the pathway system. Other trail material such as
           limestone may be considered at the time of final design. Evaluation factors may
           include accessibility, construction methods, and level of maintenance, while still
           preserving the woodland atmosphere.

                                                     46








                   b. Wetland Boardwalk and Overlook:      A large portion of the island is made up
            of wetland areas. A boardwalk into the wetland area is proposed with an overlook at
            the terminus. This arrangement will allow island visitors the opportunity to explore the
            wetland while minimizing human disturbance to the wetland. The proposed boardwalk
            will be approximately 680 lineal feet and constructed 10' wide of wood decking and
            railings with steel abutments and supports.

            The overlook will be located at the terminus of the boardwalk and be sited to allow for
            observation of both the St. Mary's shipping channel as well as the wetland areas. The
            proposed tower will be approximately 10' x 10' with an observation deck height of 20'.
            Proposed construction will probably be a combination of wood and steel. Soil
            conditions, surrounding vegetation, and other relevant items will need to be considered
            when finalizing the exact site and tower design. Construction in the wetland area will
            require -appropriate permits from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
            and other agencies as required.











                                      Al



                                                                                                L















                                              Wetland Boardwalk



                                                      47









                     C. Camping Area and Restrooms: The camping a           rea has been clustered to
              provide six camping sites. By clustering the sites, the camping area can serve six
              individual campers or one large camping group. The camping area is located on the
              higher ground within the island and is set back from the shoreline in order to provide
              a separation from the visitor pathway along the shoreline. The camping area will be for
              primitive tent camping. Rustic composting restrooms, similar to those proposed for
              Rotary Park, will provide services to the camping area and island visitors. A single
              men's and women's stall will be provided.

                     d. Interpretive Signage: As discussed for Steere Island, similar interpretive
              signage has also been included for Island No. 2. Points of interest included the key
              item No. 5 which provides for the official St. Mary's River Trail marker and additional
              information and is located near the docking location at the north end of the island. Item
              No. 6 is located along the eastern shore and the St. Mary's River shipping channel and
              provides for the interpretation of the creation of the shipping channel, the current
              shipping trade, and the impact on the local economy. Marker No. 7 is located within
              the central portion of the island and discusses the significance of the Black Ash Forest
              and upland habitat on the Island. The final sign is located at the observation tower in
              the wetlands and provides for interpretation of the wetland habitat and ecosystems.
              Additional signage may be desired once the final trail layout is completed on-site.

                     e. Scenic Overlook, Benches, and Picnic Areas: As proposed for Steere
              Island, similar resting spots have been proposed for Island No. 2. A total of twelve
              benches and six picnic tables have been included for Island No. 2. The final location
              for these should be determined with the final pathway layout on site in order to identify
              the best views and restful sites.

                     f. Shoreline Fishing: No formal fishing areas have been identified on Island
              No.2. It is proposed that fishing will be less structured and be offered informally along
              the shoreline.


                     g. Boat Dock and Water Taxi Landing: A boat dock is proposed which will
              accommodate both private boats and canoes docking at the island, as well as an
              embarking site for the water taxi from Steere Island. The proposed site is at the
              northeast end of the island, avoiding the heron rookery at the northwest end. The boat
              dock and water taxi landing will be designed to be barrier free and accommodate the
              selected vessel and meet commercial boat service needs. Although many options exist
              for this facility, two L-shaped 30'x4O'xl2'wide floating piers are listed as a possibility
              for the landings, tendered by a custo 'mized 10 person commercial grade pontoon boat.
              Greater research will be required at the actual time of construction to address
              undetermined variables including, but not limited to, safety issues, barrier free access,
              location on island, type and size of craft and landing, permits, and mode of operation.





                                                          48









             Concluding Note on Island Access Options

             The 250' long, 16'high bridge from Rotary Park to Steere Island and the water taxi from
             Steere Island to Island No. 2 are the preferred access options proposed in this plan for
             a variety of reasons as previously discussed. Should changing conditions or further
             evaluation affect the feasibility of these access methods at the time of final design,
             other options discussed in the evolution of this plan may be reconsidered, subject to
             applicable review and approval by the Michigan Departmentof Environmental Quality
             and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.


             Cost Estimates for Concept E - Final Site Master Plan
             dost estimates for Concept E appear on the following pages. These estimates are
             conceptual and will require refinement with the final designs. All estimates are based
             on 1995 dollar values, Inflationary factors will have to be considered at the time of
             design.































                                                      49








          Cost Estimates for Concept E - Final Site Master Plan

                                                              OTY,           'COST             TOTAL

          Rotaty Park

          Parking Lot
              2.5" Bituminous, 60 Gravel                  1,720 SY                9.30            16,000
              28+/- Spaces with pavement markings,

          Remove and; Replace Restrooms with                  2 LSUM                              22,000
              single compost barrier free units

          Paved Path - Barrier Free 2.50 Bituminous,        550  Sy               9.30             5,100
              6N Gravel, 10'VVide

          Benches - 6' Long Wood and Steel                    8 EA              500.00.            4,000

          Restoration                                         I   LSUM                             2,500

          20' Bridge - Pre-f ab Wood and Steel                I- LSUM                              7,000
              including abutments and grading

          Clearing                                            I LSUM                               1,000

              Subtotal                                                                            57,600
              10% Contingency                                                                      5,800

              Rotary Park Total                                                                   63,400







          NOTE: All figures are based on 1995 dollars. Design or construction observation is not
          included in cost estimate. Based upon work performed by licensed contractors. Access
          and mobilization costs have been included. Cost estimates based on Concept E - Site Plan.









                                                        50








           -Cost Estimates for Concept E - Final Site Master Plan

                                                                                  COST


           Steere Island


           Limestone  Path - Barrier free 6w crushed         2200 LF           $      10.00           22,000
               slag, 10' wide, compacted                                                              -

           Fishing Platform (10x20) -Barrierfree                  1 EA             5,000.00             5,000

           Boat Dock (10 x 60) - Barrier free                     1 EA            12,000.00           12,000

           Picnic Tables - 6' Long Wood/Steel                     3 EA               350.00              1,100

           Trash Receptacles - 22 gal. with wood frame            3 EA              .300.00               900

           Benches - 6'Long Wood/Steel                          12 EA                500.00             6,000

           Interpretive Signage                                   4 EA             3,000.00           12,000

           Access to Steere Island - 16'High Bridge            300 LF                                 364,000
               Pre-fab Wood and Steel, 1 O'Wide with
               100' Boardwalk and Railing including
               Concrete Pier and Abutments

           Fire Bowl - Clearing and Timber Seating                1 LSUM               5000              5000

           Log Cabin Improvements - Architectural and             1 LSUM        (Allowance)     $     50,000
               site work including: windows, shutters,
               doors, roofing and 1st floor improvements
               for interpretive area.

               Subtotal                                                                         $     478,000
               10% Contingency                                                                  -     47,800-

               Steere Island Total                                                              $     525,800







           NOTE: All figures are based on 1995 dollars. Design or construction observation is not
           included in cost estimate. Based upon work performed by licensed contractors. Access
           and mobilization costs have been included. Cost estimates based on Concept E - Site Plan.



                                                           51








           Cost Estimates for Concept E - Final Site Master Plan

                                                                OTY.             COST             TOTAL


           Island No. 2

           Wood Chip Path - 60 deep, 10'wide                3,250 LF          $       5.00           16,300
           Water Ta)d/Boat Dock -'2 (30'A40'xl 2')              1 I-SUM                              75,000
               barrier free; 1 (10 person customized
               pontoon boat)
               Currently several vatiables are undetermined including but not limited to
               barrierfree access, location ov island, type and size of boat, permits, and
               mode of operation.

           Picnic Tables - 6' Long Wood and Steel               6 -EA              350.00              2,100

           Trash Receptacles - 22 Gallon with Wood              6 EA               300.00              1,800
               Frame


           Restrooms - Single compost unit -                    1   EA          12,000.00            12,000
               barrier free


           Wood Observation Tower - 1 0'x1 O'x2O'               1 LSUM                               50,000
              . height

           Elevated Boardwalk - 10'Wide Wood                  680 LF                 65.00           44,200
               and Steel with Abutments and Railing

           Benches - 6' Long Wood and Steel                    12 EA               500.00              6,000

           Interpretive Signage                                 4 EA             3,000.00            12,000-

               Subtotal                                                                        $    219,400
               10% Contingency                                                                       21,900

               Island No. 2 Total                                                              $    241,300


           NOTE: All figures are based on 1995 dollars. Design or construction observation is not
           included in cost estimate. Based upon work performed by licensed contractors. Access
           and mobilization costs have been included. Cost estimates based on Concept E - Site Plan.






                                                          52








             Implementation


             Phasing Plan

             The development of the islands has been broken into two phases. Phase I includes the
             development of Rotary Island, the connection bridges to Steere Island and the
             development of Steere Island. Phase II includes the access from Steere Island to
             Island No. 2 and development of Island No. 2. A graphic of the Phasing Plan is
             included on the following page. Each of these phases may be broken into sub phases
             based on funding availability.


             Issues to be Addressed for Phasing

             Key issues to be addressed in each phase of development will be the need to acquire
             the needed permits from agencies such as the City of Sault Ste. Marie building permits,
             U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, and the
             Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Additionally archaeological research may
             be required prior to construction of either island to the satisfaction of the Michigan
             Historical Center at the time of construction.



             Planning for the Next Steps

             The primary need in the implementation of the master plan will be securing the needed
             funding. Funding options are discussed below. The funding options will to some extent
             drive the direction and amount of construction completed within each project. If the
             total phase can be completed as one project, the cost summaries given below -may be
             utilized as a guide to costs. However, it should be noted that if the projects are
             completed as numerous small projects these dollar values will most likely increase due
             to increased design time, mobilization of construction costs, and management of the
             construction supervision.


             Summary of Costs for Concept E

             Phase I- Rotary Park and Steere Island
                   a. Archaeological assessment                          $ 5,000
                   b. Final design and bidding specifications               47,200
                   c. Construction costs (based on cost estimates)
                          Rotary Park                                       63,400
                          Steere Island                                    525,800
                   d. On-site construction supervision                      23,600
                          Total for Phase 1                              $665,000


                                                       53





                                                                                                                                                                          Phasing Plan
                                                                                                                                                                   Concept "E-
                                                                                                          0

                                                                                                           0
                                                                                                            0                                    "Phase                1"         Rotary Park
                                                                                                           0                                          Additional parzing mprove existing
                                                                                                    RESTROOMS                                         Upgrade restrooms
                                                                               BMaD=                    a                                             Bridge over drainv4ay
                                                                               ON=-              0  00                                                Paved path to shoreline

                                                                          NEIV BOKT DOCK
                                                                                                                                                 'Phase In Steere Island
                                                                                  0                                                               * cle-orspon brid                                       learance
                                                                                                                                                                              ,@es for boat r
                                                                                0                                                                 * Ace-essible. pa r4ag around perimeter
                                                                              0  0 nSHING    PAM                                                  "   Barrier free fishing platform
                                                                                                                       Private WoW                * Docking area at boathouse remnants
                                                                                                                                                  *   Improve Log Cabln for:
                                                                         0                                                                            Shelter and
                                                                      0 Unnaned 4                                                                     Visitori5 Center (cottoge culture, etc)
                                                                     0                                                                            * Benches / pIcnIc. areas along trail
                                                                                                                                                  * Interpretive sIgnage / lookouts
                                                                                                     BLUE HERION                                  11 Kater taxi landing
                                                                   0                                   ROOKEFT(

                                                                   0
                                                                   0                                                                            "Phase 2"                                 Island #2
                                                                   0                                                                              41 Cluster comping area (1-6 sites)
                                                                   0                                                                                  Primitive restrooms
                                                                                                                                                      Interpretive signage / overlooks
                                                                   0                                           PAIN                                   Benches / picnic. areas along trail
                                                                   0                                                                                  Hater taxi landing / boat dock
                                                                   0                                                                                  hood-r-hip trails throvgh r4oodlands
                                                                            Boy Soout                                                                 ToNer overlooking shipping channel,
                                                                   0                                                  CAMP                            vioodlands and v4etlcncl hcbltat
                                                                   0                                                                                  Boardy4alk troll and platform
                                                                   0                                                                                  In rietlands
                                                                                                               FOREST





                                                                     0

                                                                      0                                                        BOMMALK
                                                                         0                                                            k.                        11,       0
                                                                          0                                                      &        J,

                                                                                                                                      PLATFORM
                                                                              0                                      we
                                                                                   0                                                                                      Interpretive Key:
                                                                                                                                                                          =M.TO .9E U%7.&=V'S.E1=.
                                                                                                                                                                          AS DESCRIBED BELOW.

                                                                                             0                                                                                                   CULTURE AND HISTORY
                                                                                                                                                                          --Z@    SUGAR MLAND SETTLEVENT AND CURRENT
                                                                                                                                                                                  USES
                                                                                                     0                                                                            OBSERVATION OF 110" ROOKERY AND IM110
                                                                                                                                                                                  ARFA WAVER DAM M40 FtSHNG "OLE

                                                                                                          0                                                                              AM CURRENT                  OF THE
                                                                                                                                                                                  ST. VARY'S RNER TRNL
                                                                                                             01pe                                     WarW No. I          -ZZ:0 ST. - RNER -L
                                                                                                                0
                                                                                                                   0                                                              CREATM OF SHFPINO CHANNEL. CURRENT USE
                                                                                                                        4P                                                        SHPP*G TRADE AND LOCAL ECONOWY
                                                                                                                                                                                  KAM ASH FOREST AM UPLAND HABITAT
                                                                                                                         0 Z,                                                     MOM FOD"TION, REGOKA- GEOGRAPHY
                                                                                                                                               0
                                                                                                                                                                                  WETLAND HABT%T AND CCOSYSTEMS
                                                                                                                             0                0
                                                     Munio;oal Marina                                                            0            0
                                              (boat 4 canoe rental) .40,                                 %                         0         0
                                                                                           ;0,                                        0 0   0
                                                                                                                                   0 0     0
                                                                                                                                              0


                                                                                                                                      54
                                                                                             Feasibility    SW*                                                                                          CAW
                                                   PHASM                                   Lower Wer bWjxb                         4S=ATl
                              LP4         SRE MASTS! PLM
                              -i                                                  I     City of Sauft Ste. Maw










              Phase Il- Island No. 2
                     a. Archaeological assessment                            $ 3,000
                     b. Final design and bidding specifications                  20,000
                     c. Construction costs (based on cost estimates)           241,300
                     d. On-Site construction supervision                         10,000
                            Total for Phase 11                                $274,300

              Total for Phase I and Phase 11:                                 $939,300


              Funding Alternatives

              Furiding for the project will require a variety of funding sources. The phasing of the
              development will require larger amounts of funds to-accomplish major elements such as
              the bridge access and log cabin restoration, but will also allow for most of the items of
              development to be completed individually as funds allow. It can be assumed that
              funding of the project will require aggressive grant writing, solicitation of community
              support and donations, as well as general fund dollars from the City of Sault Ste. Marie.

              Possible grant sources could include the following:

              Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund
              The Michigan Natural Resources.Trust Fund is State of Michigan funds distributed by
              the Administrative Services Division of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
              The trust fund supports grants for projects relating to recreational use of the natural
              resources including water access, trail way development, and outdoor education.
              Eligible grants range from $15,000 to $375,000. Grant applications are accepted once
              a year on April 1. The submitting community must have a Five Year Community
              Recreation Plan on file with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The
              grants provide for up to 75% of the funds and require no less than 25% in matching
              funds.


              Land & Water Conservation Fund
              The Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program is federal grant monies
              administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The trust fund dollars
              are more limited than the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund but are available for
              outdoor recreation projects. Eligible grants range from $10,000 to $250,000. Grant
              applications are accepted once a year on April 1. The submitting community must have
              a Five Year Community Recreation Plan on file with the Michigan Department of
              Natural Resources. The grants provide for up to 50% of the funds with 50% of
              matching funds required from the community.

              Inland Fisheries Resources Grants
              The purpose of the Inland Fisheries Resources Grants, administered by the Michigan
              Department of Natural Resources is to provide funds to encourage and enhance inland
              fishing opportunities including bank st a*bilization, piers, erosion control and access

                                                          55









             sites. The source of the grant funds is the State's Game and Fish Fund. Applications
             are due to the local district offices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources
             Fisheries Division by February 1 of each year. Maximum grants to be awarded are
             $20,000. Total funds available for 1995 for all grants was $200,000.


             Boating Facilities Grant
             The Boating Facilities Grant is funded by the Michigan State Waterways Fund
             administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation
             Division. The purpose of the grant funds is to provide for the development of
             recreational boating facilities. Deadline for the submittal-of applications is April 1 of
             each year. The grants require a minimum 50% in local matching funds for mooring and
             small grants projects. A 75% state grant is available for launching projects. The 1995
             fiscal year appropriation was $2,517,000.


             Coastal Zone Management
             Coastal Zone Management grants are administered by the Michigan Department of
             Environmental Quality, Land and Water Management Division. This program was
             developed under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act in 1978. Eligible projects
             include studies, design, and construction for enhancement of public access, protection
             of resources, preservation and restoration of historic structures, redevelopment of
             urban waterfronts and ports within Michigan's Great Lakes coastal area. Grants are
             limited to a maximum of $50,000 with at least 50% of total projects cost as local match
             provided by the community. Applications are accepted no later than March 1.






















                                                       56








         Appendices








            Appendix A - Background Information on Committee Members


                       Sault Ste. Marie Lower River Islands Study Steering Committee

                                                   April 1995
                             Ellen Brey, Sault Ste. Marie Community Services Board
                    James Moody, Sault Ste. Marie Planning and Development Commission
                              Elizabeth Demaray,.Member from the General Public
                               Daniel Donarski, Member from the General Public
                                Warren Parker, Member from the General Public


                                                November 1995
                             Ellen Brey, Sault Ste. Marie Community Services Board
                  Robert Shimmens, Sault Ste. Marie Planning and Development Commission
                              Elizabeth Demaray, Member from the General Public
                               Daniel Donarski, Member from the General Public
                                James Moody, Member from the General Public

            Ellen Brey is serving her first full term on the Community Services Board. She is a
            legal assistant to a local attorney, and has also worked with local social services
            programs.

            James Moody was completing his second full term on the Planning and Development
            Commission when a appointed to the Steering Committee. He is a Professor of History
            at Lake Superior State University and has served two full terms on the Sault Ste. Marie
            City Commission.

            Elizabeth Demaray is a past president of the Sault Ste. Marie Rotary Club, which has
            been active in lower river park development. She is also a vice-president of the FMB
            Sault Bank.


            Daniel Donarski is a past president of the Sault Area Sportsmen's Club and
            experienced fisherman. He is also Executive Director of the Sault Convention and
            Visitors Bureau.

            Warren Parker is a local birding expert who has written a regular column on birding for
            the local newspaper. He is a retired business man and has long been active in
            community affairs. He resigned from, full membership on the committee in August 1995
            for health reasons.

            When Mr. Parker resigned, Mr. Moody had also completed his term on the Planning
            and Development Commission. Mr. Moody was then designated as a member from the
            general public and Robert Shimmens was appointed to represent the Planning and
            Development Commission.


                                                       57









            Robert Shirhmens has served several years on the City Planning and Development
            Commission and also serves on the City Beatification Committee. He is a social worker
            for the Chippewa County Department of Social Services.













































                                                    58







                Appendix B - Lefter from the Michlgcln Historical Center



                                                  MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF STATE
                                                    Candice S. Miller, Secretary of State
                                                       Lansing, Mic'higan 48918-0001


                                                     STATE FUSTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
                                                               hfichigan Fristorical Center
                                                                717 West Allegan Street
                                                             Lansing, Michigan 48918-1800

                         August 22, 1"5
                                                                                             AUG     3 igos
                         PAM@A M BLOUGH LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
                         CAPITAL CONSULTANTS
                         820 N WASHINGTON AVE                                              spital Con uitants. inn.
                         LANSING Ml 48906


                         RE:    ER-950557      Lower River Islands Feasibility Study, Sault Ste. Marie, Chippewa
                                               County (MDNR-CZM)

                         Dear Ms. Blough:

                         We have reviewed the information you recently sent us regarding the project referenced  above.
                         We have no historical information, and very little contextual infbrmatior@ with which to
                         evaluate the properties mentioned in your letter. We suggest that the cultural history of the
                         islands be documented as part of the planning effort. Such documentation should help you to
                         avoid adversely impacting historically significant properties, and identify potential interpretive
                         themes for part of the development The log structure appears to be.an interesting example of
                         rustic camp architecture. We recommend that you investigate rehabilitating this structure as
                         part of the development project

                         According to records in the Office of the State Archaeologist, these islands have never been
                         surveyed for archaeological sites. Given the long history of precontact Native American
                         settlement in the Sault Ste. Marie area, along with historical period settlement by both Native
                         peoples and Euroamericans, there is clearly potential f6r archaeological sites to be present on
                         the islands. We recommend that an archaeological survey of the islands be conducted prior to
                         development. It would probably be most efficient to do a complete survey of all three islands
                         so that information on site locations could be used in planning development.

                         If you have any questions, please contact the Environmental Review Coordinator at (517) 335-'
                         2721. Thank you for this opportmity to review and comment.

                         Sincerely,
                                  vle 4

                         Kaffiryn B. Eckert
                         State Historic Preservation Officer


                         KBE:DLA:EAM
                    ,?Ka@       E


                         cc: Maureen Hein, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Land & Water Division


                                                                         59








                 A endix C- Advertisement for Public Workshop



                         NOTICE OF PUBLIC WORKSHOP
                                                                                      :PUBLIC NOTICE
                         Published in Sault Ste. Marie                                CITY OF SAULT STE. MARIE
                         EVENING NEWS                                                    LOWER RIVER -ISLANDS
                         September 15, 1995                                                      DEVELOPMENT
                                                                                              PLAN WORKSHOP
                                                                                      A Public Workshop to, discuss the recreational
                                                                                      development of the City's three lower river
                                                                                      islands will be held an Wednesday, September
                                                                                      20, 1995 at* 7:00 p.m. in the City Commission
                                                                                      Room, City Hall,'325 Court Street, Sault Ste.
                                                                                      MarM, Michigan.
                                                                                      The City is In -the plrocess of completing 'a
                                                                                      master development plan -for access to and
                                                                                      recreational use of the three lower river islands
                                                                                      south of Rotary Park as shown on@'the map
                                                                                      below. A donceptual- plan has been developed
                                                                                      by the firm of Capital Consultants, working with
                                                                                      City staff and the Islands Study Steering
                                                                                      Committee. The plan includes the placement of
                                                                                      pedestrian bridges to- proVide - access from
                                                                                      Rotary *Park to the islands. The public is invited
                                                                                      to view and discuss the conceptual plan so that
                                                                                      comments may be considered prior to
                                                                                      completing the final plan.
                                                                                      All interested persons are encouraged to attend
                                                                                      the -workshop, and comment on the conceptual
                                                                                      plan. For further information, please contact the"
                                                                                      Department of Planning and Development, 1301
                                                                                      West Easterday Avenue, Sault Ste. Marie,
                                                                                      Michigan, telephone 906-635-1521.

                                                                                               James F. Hendricks
                                                                                               Director of Planning and Development


                                                                                                                     @ E 1C;1












                                                                                                                ?








                                                                                                                              V@



                                                                           60








           Appendix D - Summary Comments froM Public Workshop



             SUM-1ARY OF COblMENTS MADE AT LOWER RIVER ISLANDS PUBLIC
             WORKSHOP SEPTEMBER 20, 1995

             Several boaters from the Riverside Drive area were present,
             Overall, the reaction of those present was that the project is
             very worthwhile. There is enthusiasm for the islands' use and
             development. There were several constructive comments as
             summarized below:


             -BRIDGE HEIGHT
                  Between Rotdry Park and Steere Island
                  Bridge height is a concern between Rotary and Steere
                  Island. It is a frequently used power boat route.

                  Ten feet in height over high water would not be enough
                  because of antennae heights.

                  Consensus of those present was that sixteen feet above high
                  water is needed at minimum with twenty feet being desirable.
                  (A boater unable to be' at the workshop called the Planning
                  office after the meeting to state that bridge height is a
                  concern and he agreed that the 16' minimum, 20' ideal
                  figures discussed at the workshop were accurate.)

                  The existing bridge over the Black River above the dam near
                  Cheboygan was cited as an example of a good bridge height.

                  It was noted that the channel between Rotary and Steere is
                  deepest closest to Steere Island and that this is the route
                  boats usually take.

                  It was noted that Most of the power boats along Riverside
                  Drive are probably 21-25' in length.

                  Other Locations
                  Bridge heights between the unnamed island and Steere and
                  Island No. 2 were not considered a problem by those present
                  as these are not boat traffic areas.


             -HANDICAP ACCESS
                  It was noted that at the same time one looks at bridge
                  height in terms of boats, one also has to consider handicap
                  access to Steere Island.


             -DOCKING LOCATIONS
                 .Steere Island
                  One person present thought perhaps the dock location on
                  northwest side of Steere was too close to the boat traffic
                  lane, but another said it should be no problem and is
                  similar in location to former dock.







                                                 61



















                  Island No. 2
                  Consensus was that the dock location on northeast corner of
                  Island No. 2 as shown is too close to channel currents. One
                  person present called back a few days later and said he
                  confirmed this in his boat. He also stated that j-ust moving
                  the dock westward between Island No. 2 and the private
                  island might be all that is needed as there is a deep area
                  with old pilings that appears to possibly have been a boat
                  docking area before.

             -FIRE BOWL/STARGAZING AREA LOCATION-
                  It was suggested that this activity be moved eastward
                  toward the river/Canada side away from the Sault, Michigan
                  city.lights which would lessen the effect.

             -CAMPSITES ON ISLAND NO.2
                  There was consensus that for ease of maintenance and
                  lessening of impact, the idea of campsites in one clustered
                  location is a good one. One person questioned whether there
                  would be a sufficient number of sites.


                  It was noted that there could be revenue generated from
                  camping, that there might be a good demand for the sites.
                  Mr. Hendricks noted that perhaps the operation could be tied
                  in with the City's Aune Osborn campground operation.

             -SIGNAGE FOR SAILBOATS OR OTHER OVERSIZED CRAFT
                  It was suggested that some type of directional signage be
                  provided in the area around I.sland No. 2 to advise boaters
                  of clearance limits in the area of Island No. 2 well before
                  they enter the Steere/Rotary Channel so that sailboats or
                  oversized power boats can avoid the route while they still
                  have room to maneuver elsewhere. (One private Riverside
                  Drive marina owner/resident told of unfamiliar boaters
                  getting stuck due to low clearance of wires without area to,
                  turn around-)


             MAINTENANCE
                  More than one person mentioned the importance of proper
                  maintenance and making ease of maintenance a consideration
                  in designing facilities.

            -CANADIAN GEESE NUISANCE
                  There was discussion how to keep geese from affecting the
                  area. They are problem at Rotary park. People feeding
                  them, of course, exacerbates the problem. Maureen Hein from
                  MDNR noted that the geese favor cut lawn areas.


            -WINTER USE - CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
                  One steering committee member present noted the potential
                  for winter cross country ski trail use and also




                                                 62















                  incorporation of the islands into the City's Historic
                  Walkway and/or bike trail system.

             -HISTORIC RESOURCE PERSON
                  It was noted that an Admiral McKinney-would be a good
                  resource person for the history of Steere Island and that he
                  could probably be contacted tthrough Mr. Ed Stack of the
                  Sault.


             -CANOE ACCESS
                  it was mentioned that informal canoe landing areas should be
                  included in the plan.

             -FISHING PIER LOCATIONS
                  It was noted that fishing piers should be located where
                  there is actually good fishing.





             ummary prepared by Sault Ste. Marie Department of Plannirig and
             Development
             S



































                                                63








              Appendix E - Letter from the Coastal Zone Management Division


                                                        STATE OF MICHIGAN


              NATURALRESOURCES
                 COMMISSION
                 JERRY C. SARTNIK
                 KErMJ. CHARTERS                       JOHN ENGLER, Governor                RMY T&.
                 LARRY DEVIJYST                                                             LAW & WATER MANAGEMENT OVISION
                 PALIL EISELE             DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES                   PO Box 304M
                 JAMES P. HILL               STEVENS T MASON BUILDING, PO BOX 30028. LANSING MI 48WO-7528 LANSING MI 413909.79W
                 DAVID HOLLI
                 JOeYM.SPANO                            ROLAND HARNIES. Diredw
                                                            September 29, 1995


                      Ms. Barbara Lisiecki
                      Planning and Development Department
                      City of Sault Ste. Marie
                      .-.1301 West Easterday Avenue
                      Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783

                      Dear Barb:

                      Th s letter is a follow-up to our-meeting in Sault Ste.. Marie. last week. Listed
                      below is a summary of the issues we discussed concerning the concept drawings for
                      the lower river island_@ project.     I have focused on Concept D, which was
                      indicated by the city as the preferred option.

                      1.    The heron rookery and osprey nest will need to be located and indicated on
                            the site plan. Every effort should be made to avoid disturbance of these
                            nest sites, including development of trails or any other kind of
                            construction.   Increasing public access and activity near the nest sites
                            would also be considered disturbance.

                      2.    The concept should not indicate any fill material being placed in the
                            river, as is currently shown in Concept D as "extend shoreline for new
                            bridge." This woul.d not likely be permitted by state or federal agencies,
                            and is not consistent with the goals and objectives of the Coastal
                            Management Program.   As we discussed, construction of several bridges
                            between the islands may prove to be cost prohibitive, with or without fill
                            material.  An alternate plan, such as use of row boats to access Island
                            #2, should be considered.

                      3.    Placement of parking lots, restroom facilities and any other construction
                            should be kept away from the shoreline, as possible.      These areas will
                            likely contribute sediment and other runoff to the river, and a plan for
                            stormwater management will eventually need to be completed.          As we
                            discussed, these issues would be addressed in final engineering for the
                            facilities.

                      I enjoyed meeting with you last week, and especially appreciated being able to
                      attend the public meeting for the project.      The project deadline has been
                      extended to December 31, 1995. 1 look forward to seeing the final plan. If you
                      have any questions, or wish to -discuss the project, please do not hesitate to
                      contact me at 517-373-1950.

                                                           Sincerely,


                                                           Maureen Hein
                                                           Coastal Programs Unit
                                                           Land and Water Management Division



             11 I=.E24
             REV. OM                                        64








             Appendix F- Concept Plans A, Bv Cv D, and E

             Included in Appendix F are the five concept plans that were developed in the planning
             process. Concept E is the final plan which is described in greater detail within the body
             of this report.


             Concept A


             Concept A appears on the following page.

             Concept A includes the development of bridge access to all three islands. The bridges
             will be clear span truss structures spanning from island to island. The bridges will be
             primarily for pedestrian use, and will be designed to not only accommodate barrier free
             use, but also a maintenance vehicle. An extension of Rotary Park shoreline prbvides a
             stable base and shorter length for the bridge to Steere Island. Watercraft will have
             access to the island at a new dock located near the previous boathouse.

             On Steere Island, the cottage culture of the island will be highlighted by improvements
             to the existing log cabin structure including a visitors center and lodging for overnight
             group outings. An amphitheater for group events, fire-bowls, star-gazing, and story
             telling is also located on this island.' A pathway will be located along the shoreline
             connecting the interpretive cottages. The pathway will be of a pavement surface to
             allow for more intensive use and barrier free access around the island.


             Bridges will connect to Island No. 2 via the Unnamed Island. Barrier free pathways
             connect areas on Steere Island to a fishing/boating dock at the northeast point of Island
             No. 2. Un-paved pathways on Island No. 2 link various individual campsites throughout
             the upland areas. A boardwalk and overlook provide access into the wetland habitat at
             the southern end of the island as well as continuous views along the shipping channel
             and shoreline. A picnic shelter and challenge course are included for group
             achievement activities.



















                                                       65





                                                                                                                                                                  Concept "A"

                                            Option *1



                                                                                                         NG
                                                                            -0                                                 0                                                 Rotary Par"k
                                                   A                                                                           0
                                                                                                                                                     Additional porking/Improve existing
                                                                                                      msnwow                   0                     Upgrade restrooms
                                                                                                         0                     0                     Extend shoreline for neP4 bridge
                                                                                                      TUU&                     0

                                                                                               ROX            FISHOC           0-
                                                                                WW OOCK                                                                                        Steere Island
                                                                                                            0                  N                     Clear5pon bridges via unnamed Isle
                                                                                                                               0
                                                                                                                               rMWC                  Paved pothp4ay around perimeter
                                                                                  0                             0              0                     f3arrier free fishing platforms
                                                                              0       0                                        0
                                                                                                       0 Q<--Private Wand                            Docking area at boathouse remnants
                                                                            0             0        0                                                 Improve Log Cobin for:
                                                                                                                                                     &roup overnight outings
                                                                            0                                                                        Visitors Center (e-ottage culture, etc)
                                                                            0                                                                        Fire-bopql / ompithooter / stor-gozing
                                                                                               ORM
                                                                                                       0. WE
                                                                            0                                                  CAMP WE                                                  Island #2
                                                                            0                                                  1
                                                                            0                                                                        individual campsites (no fires)
                                                                            0                                                  GE-                   Challenge ropes course
                                                                            0                                                                        Sroup picnic shelter
                                                                            0                                                                        Borrier free occess to fishing
                                                                            0                                CAMP WE           CMAWP                 plotformlclock
                                                                            0                                                                        Limestone trails through lNoodlorlds
                                                                              Boy Scout                                                              Boordr4olk troll and platform
                                                                            0                                                                        In k4etloncls
                                                                            0     Isliuld
                                                                                                                               CAMP
                                                                            0
                                                                                                                               PATH


                                                                            0



                                                                            0

                                                                            0                                                    "OMDWAJ-K
                                                                            00                                                      .6
                                                                              0
                                                                                0                                              we   PWFOR
                                                                                  0


                                                                                       0
                                                                                           0              0 .1
                                                                                            0
                                                                                               0        0
                                                                                                     0                         A,
                                                                                                    0"                                                   Is" No. I
                                                                                                      0
                                                                                                         0
                                                                                                           0  -001
                                                                                                                               S
                                                                                                                               0
                                                                                                                               ot
                                                                                                                               411.           0
                                                                                                                               0
                                                                                         50r"
                                                            WkIpal Marina                                                        0           0
                                                                                                                                    0       0
                                                                                         40t                                         0
                                                                                                                                        0
                                                                                                                                           0
                                                                                                                                             0

                                                                                                                                    66


                                                                                                                                                                             REM-$
                                                                                               Feasibility Study
                                          PREMWY SITE PLAN                                  Lower Wer bkrW%                         C             L
                                                                                                                                    C=TANTS
                                                                                          Cfty of Sauft Sta. Marle                  ENGINEER S








             Concept B


             A drawing of Concept B is located on the page immediately following.

             Concept B provides access to pedestrians and service vehicles utilizing bridges to
             Steere and No. 2 Island. Without extending the shoreline of Rotary Park, additional
             bridging will be required to span the longer channel widths. A new boathouse and dock
             area will be recreated near the old boathouse site. The log cabin structure will be
             improved for a visitors center, which will be utilized to interpret the previous cottage
             structures throughout the island. A playground built in character with the cottage
             styles, located in the center of Steere Island, will provide an active spot for families with
             children, barrier free pathways connect the various activities on Steere tsland as well
             as provide access to barrier free fishing docks and overlooks along the shoreline.

             Island No. 2 has a more rustic development with a select amount of group camping
             areas connected by unpaved pathways throughout the wooded uplands. A tower
             structure at the far end of the island would provide a destination for viewing the wetland
             area and shipping channel from a raised perspective. Various fishing and boat docks
             are also located along the pathways.




























                                                       67





                                                                                                                      Concept "13.


                                                     so                                   0.                                     Rotary Park
                                                                                                            Additional parking/Improve existing
                                                                                          0                 Upgrade restrooms/accessible
                                                                                          0                 Concessions
                                              71".                                        0                 Clearspon bridges to Steare Islond
                                                                    LOG                                                        Steere Island
                                                             0                                                              ridges via unnamed Isle
                                                             0                 10         CH=               Clearspan k:h
                                                                                          STRUCTURM         Paved pathway around perimeter
                                                        0  0 0                            "0                5orrier free fl5hlng platforms
                                                              0            0 Q<-Pdnte Island                Novi boothou5elboot rentals
                                                                                          0                 Improve Log Cabin for a visitors
                                                      0             0 0                   0                 center (cottage culture, maps, etr-J
                                                     0 Uraffied -4                                          Construct C?hort 5tru4ctures at old
                                                     0                                                      foundations
                                                     0                BRIDGE                                Play structure In center of Island

                                                                                 Glow     WE
                                                                                            %
                                                     0                                                                                Island #2
                                                     0                                                      6roup compsites (no fires)
                                                     0                                                      6host 5trurtvres
                                                     0
                                                                                 GRMOUP   SnME              New dock and fishing platforms
                                                     0                                                      Aoodchlp trails through v4oodlandr.
                                                     0                                                      Tower overlooking shipping chanal
                                                                                  GROUP                     and wetlands
                                                     0
                                                     0   Boy Soout
                                                             WaM


                                                                                  WOOOCH
                                                                                  TRNL                NEW DOCK
                                                     0                                                to-
                                                     0                                    .61           0

                                                     0                                                   0
                                                                                              A.
                                                     0

                                                      0


                                                                                                     Jk
                                                        0
                                                                                           tiands

                                                             0

                                                             0
                                                                              01
                                                                             0
                                                                          0 0
                                                                         0.                                     W" No. I
                                                                          0
                                                                            0
                                                                              0 0 'Pe
                                                                 0,               01
                                                                                          0
                                                                                          0@
                                                                                          04P
                                                                                          0
                                                                                                        0
                                                                                          0
                                                                         %*                            0
                                            Munk*)W                                          0         0
                                                       Marbia
                                                                                          <0 0 0 0 0 0
                                                                                                     0


                                                                                                68


                        'A                                           FeadAy StWY
                        P1     PFELIAWY SIM PLM                    Lower Wer WiWis                  APITAI-ANTS
                                                                                                CCCONSMT
                                                                 My of SaW Ste. Marle          E N G I of C I e S








             Concept C


             A drawing of Concept C is found on the page immediately following.

             This third option concentrates on lower impact uses of the islands and limit access to
             Island No. 2 via watercraft at dock locations. A longer bridge span links Rotary Park to
             Steere Island; similar to Concept B, as well as a new boathouse. The suggestion of a
             boat ramp at Rotary Park would provide facilities near a parking area for watercraft
             using the islands and St. Mary's River Trail. Destinations on Steere Island include a
             museum within the log cabih structure, interpretive trails and various barrier free fishing
             platforms and overlooks_along the paved shoreline path. The museum and interpretive
             signage would provide information on the previous cottage-culture of the.. islands as well
             as the regional Sault history and shipping industry.

             Rustic campsites are located on Island No. 2, most  along the shoreline for boafing
             access. Unpaved pathways connect the various sites within the uplands of the island
             as well as the boat docks. Interpretive signage would focus on the natural features of
             the area. A water taxi service would provide day-time access to the island from the
             nearby municipal marina, Rotary Park and Steere Island.




























                                                       69





                                                                                                                               Concept "C"


                                                                                                                                          Rotary Park
                                                                     0                                               Additional parklnglBoot launch
                                                                                               0                     Upgrade restrooms/accessible
                                                                                    0-         0                     Concessions, boat rental
                                                                     0                         0                     Cleorspan bridges to 5teere Island
                                                                     0                         0
                                                           NEW                                                                           Steere Island

                                                                                                                     Foved pothyioy around perimeter
                                                              0                           ING                        Barrier free fishing platforms
                                                                     0                                               NeP4 boothou5e/docklne
                                                             0       0              0          Prfvate kdwW          Improve Log Cabin for a museum
                                                                     O>             0                                (cottoge culture, 5oult. history, etc)
                                                                     NEW DOM   CIj  NVW        FWWG                  Interpretive trail
                                                           0 Uiriaffad
                                                           0
                                                           0                         %           %
                                                           0                           %          %                                  -
                                                           0                              \,,,PSrTE         NC
                                                           0                        CAMPSrrE                                                    Island #2
                                                           0             mmW10                                       Individual campsites       (no f ires)
                                                           0                          WO ft                        V Landings at campsites Ahere possilple
                                                           0                                                         Nevq docks @ond fishing p lotf orms
                                                           0                                                         Noodchip trails through Y4oodlands
                                                           0                   0                                     Interpretive trail
                                                                                                                     Access via boats
                                                           0 Boy Scout         0                                     Y'iater taxi service from marina
                                                           0
                                                                               0
                                                                IsImid         0
                                                           0
                                                                                         W000CM
                                                           0                             TRNL                N   D=

                                                           0
                                                           0                                   A,               0

                                                           0

                                                           0

                                                           0




                                                              0                                   tlands


                                                                     0
                                                                     0
                                                                      0             01
                                                                        0 0         00
                                                                               00
                                                                               0"                                       We No. I
                                                                                    0
                                                                                    0
                                                                                    0
                                                                                      0 "Pe
                                                                                         0,
                                                                                          S-
                                                                                               00
                                                                                               0
                                                                     00                                        0

                                                                                                               0
                                               Municipal Marina                                     0         0
                                               (BOAT RENTALS/WA7rR TAXIS)                                     0
                                                                                               < 0  0  00 0  0
                                                                                                            0
                                                                                                              0

                                                                                                        70

                          (A                                              Feasbility Study
                          rq     PRRXVMY SnE PLAN                       Lower Rver WarKIS              C           L
                                                                                                      CC=tTAIT
                                                                      City of Sam Ste. Merle          E IN G I N E   E A 5








             Concept D


             A drawing of Concept D appears on the page immediately following.

             The development of Concept D was completed after the initial threeboncepts and was
             based on input received from the Study Committee and City staff.

             This revised concept most closely resembles that of Concept A with minor revisions.
             The committee favored the strong connection with Rotary Park and Island No. 2 using
             bridges and the shoreline extension. Due to the man-made nature of some of the
             islands as a result of dredging the shipping canal and good relationships with the
             Corps of. Engineers, the Study Committee felt positive about the prospect of extending
             Rotary Park shoreline for the connection to Steere Island.

             The Committee also favored the more active uses on Steere Island, such as the
             overnight group lodging and visitors center in the log cabin structure and the new dock
             at the old boathouse site. These elements highlight the previous culture and lifestyle of
             the islands by providing a destination and access to the islands as well as an
             educational resource. The fire-bowl/amphitheater will compliment the overnight and
             group activities on thelsland as well. Barrier free fishing platform s/overlooks, seating
             and picnic areas and interpretive signage will be located along the paved paths
             throughout Steere Island.

             Island No. 2 contains elements that concentrate on the natural features of the island.
             The larger acreage and greater distance from a parking lot should -reduce the density of
             use on the island and create a more remote environment for visitors. The island. is
             connected by bridges as well as another boat dock/fishing platform near the shipping
             canal. A barrier free pathway connects this dock to the bridge providing barrier-free
             access. A single group camping area is,sized for approximately six sites which are
             linked by unpaved paths. The tower structure and boardwalk both provide unique
             views of the wetlands and shoreline. Interpretive signage and seating along the
             pathways provide interesting trails throughout the island that educate visitors about the
             habitats and natural areas.



















                                                       71





                                                                                                 Concept V
                                                                                                  T


                                                               NG        0                                Rotary Park
                                               00
                                                                         0             * Additional porkineAmprove existing
                                                             RMMOM       0             4 Upgrade re-strooms
                                                                         0             * Extend shoreline for nopq bridge
                                                           ML       MAC
                                                            04ATER       0
                                     %                   RM"       FISHM 0
                                                NEW DOCK                                                 Steere Island
                                                    11                   14
                                                  0
                                               M   FISHM    P    0       N                Clearspon I@rldqes via unnamed isle
                                                 0                                        paved pothy4ag around perimeter
                                                0                 0      0                Barrier free fishing platforms
                                               0 0            0 Q<--Prfvate Ida           Doe-king area at boathouse remnants
                                               0     0                   0                Improve Log Cabin for:
                                               0                                          &roup overnight outings
                                               0                                          Visitors Center (,cottoge culture, atc)
                                               0                             PKW          Fire-bov4l / ampitheater / stor-gozing
                                               0         BMW      %                       5encher, along trall
                                               0                                          Interpretive sIgnoge
                                                                                          Ficnic areas              Z'
                                               0                                                              Island #2
                                               0                                          Cluster comping area (1-6 sites)
                                               0                             WE           Primitive, restrooms
                                               0                                          Interpretive signoge
                                               0                                          Benches along troll
                                               0                                          Sorrier free access to fishing
                                               0                                          platform/dock
                                               0Boy Scout                                 Limestone trolls through *4oodlancI5
                                               0  Wand                                    Toy4er overlooking shipping channel
                                                                                          and v4oodlonds
                                               0                         PATH             Boordwalk troll and platform
                                               0                                          in sNetlonds
                                               0

                                               0

                                               0
                                               0                           j@ SWOVOLK
                                               0
                                               0                                J.

                                               0                         we

                                                  0
                                                     0
                                                     0           OA      je%,-
                                                                0
                                                       0      0          R110

                                                            0."                             Wand No. I
                                                             0
                                                               0
                                                                0
                                                                    dt"         -A@
                                                                         S'
                                                                         0
                                                                         OA
                                                                          0 X
                                                                           0         0
                                 Municipal Marina                            0
                                                                                0
                             (boat $ conoe rental)
                                                                                0  0
                                                                          '(0   00 0 C,
                                                                                    0

                                                                                72


                                                                                                                      1- F
                   En                                    Feadflity Study
                           FIEVM SITE PLAN             Lower Rver lelan4s              L
                                                                                CCC=tT'W8
                                                     CRY Of Sault Ste. Maria    E N C I N I








           -Cost Estimates for Concept D -

                                                              QIY_              COST

           Rotary Par

           Parking Lot                                         -
               2.5" Bituminous, 60 Gravel                 1,720 SY           $       9.30    $     16,000
               28+/- Spaces with pavement markings

           Remove and fleplace Restrooms with                  2 LSUM                              22,000
               single compost barrier free units

           Paved Path - Barrier Free 2.50 Bituminous,       700 SY                   9.30           6,500
               6n Gravel, 10'Wide

           Benches - 6'Long Wood and Steel                     8 EA               500.00            4,000

           Restoration                                         1 LSUM                               2,500

           20'Bridge - Pre-fab Wood and Steel                  1 LSUM                               7,000
               including abutments and grading

           Shoreline Extension                             4035 CYD (C.I.P.)         6.00          24,210

           Clearing                                            1 LSUM                               1,000

               Subtotal                                                                      $     83,210
               10% Contingency                                                                      8,290

               Phase A - Rotary Park Total                                                   $     91,500







           NOTE: All figures are based on 1995 dollars. Design or construction observation is not
           included in cost, estimate. Based upon work performed by licensed contractors. Access
           and mobilization costs have been included. Cost estimates based on Concept D - Site Plan.








                                                         73








           Cost Estimates for Concept D -


                                                                                COST              TOT


           Steere Island


           Limestone Path - Barrier free 6N crushed         2200 LF           $     10.00     $     22,000
               slag, 10'wide, compacted

           Fishing Platform (10x20) -Barrierfree               1   EA            5,000.00            5,000

           Boat Dock (10 x 60) - Barrier free                  1   EA           12,000.00           12,000

           Picnic Tables - 6Long Wood/Steel                    3 EA               350.00             1,100

           Trash Receptacles - 22 gal. with wood frame         3-EA               300.00                900

           Benches - 6'Long Wood/Steel                        12 EA               500.00             6,000

           Interpretive Signage                                4 EA              3,000.00           12,000

           Access to Steere Island - 10'High Bridge          100 LF                   800           80,000
               Pre-fab Wood and Steel, 1 O'Wide with
               Railing including Concrete Abutments
               Concrete Pier and Abutments


           Fire Bowl - Clearing and Timber Seating             1 LSUM                                5,000
           Log Cabin Improvements - Architectural and          1 LSUM             (Allowance)       50,000-
               site work including: windows, shutters,
               doors, roofing and 1 st floor improvements
               for interpretive area.

               Subtotal                                                                       $    194,000
               10% Contingency                                                                      19,400

               Phase B - Steere* Island Total                                                 $ 213,Q0





           NOTE: All figures are based on 1995 dollars. Design or construction observation is not
           included in cost estimate. Based upon work performed by licensed contractors. Access
           and mobilization costs have been included. Cost estimates based on Concept D - Site Plan.




                                                         74








           Cost Estimates for Concept-D -

                                                                                 COST            TOTAL


           Island No. .2

           Limestone Path - Barrier free, 6N crushed         475 LF            $        10    $      4,750
           slag, 10'wide, compacted

           Wood Chip Path - 6" deep, 1 O'wide              3,250 LF                   5.00          16,300
           Access to Island #2 - 41 high bridge pre-fab (2) 100 LF             80,000.00            160,000
               wood and steel, 1 O'wide with railing
               and concrete abutments

           Boat Dock (10'x 60') with single compost            I EA            12,000.00            12,000
               barrier free units


           Picnic Tables - 6'Long Wood and Steel               6 EA                350.00            2,100

           Trash Receptacles - 22 Gallon with Wood             6 EA                300.00            1,800
               Frame

           Restrooms - Single componst unit-                   1 EA            12,000.00            12,000
               barrier free

           Wood Observation Tower -1 O'xl O'x2O'               1 LSUM                               50,000
               height

           Elevated Boardwalk - 1 O'Wide Wood               680 LF                  65.00           44,200
               and Steel with Abutments and Railing

           Benches - 6' Long Wood and Steel                   12 EA                500.00            6,000

           Interpretive Signage                                4 EA              3,000.00           12,000


               Subtotal                                                                       $    316,400
               10% Contingency                                                                -     31,600

               Phase C - Island No. 2 Total                                                   $ 348,000


           NOTE: All figures are based on 1995 dollars. Design or construction observation is not
           included in cost estimate. Based upon work performed by licensed contractors. Access
           and mobilization costs have been included. Cost estimates based on Concept D - Site Plan.



                                                         75








            Concept E


            Concept E   is a final site plan as a result of comments from the Committee, various
            regulatory agencies and the findings of the Natural Resource Assessment completed
            by Resource Management Group. A site plan is included on the following page.

            Upon further consideration by the Committee, increased vertical clearance for boats
            was to be provided for the channel between Rotary Park and Steere Island. A
            clearance of 18'was agreed to be the minimum distance required. In order to achieve
            this height and maintain barrier free access to the islands, a longer bridge span was
            used to cross the channel. Due to design limitations regarding length of such
            pedestrian bridges, two bridge units were required. A concrete pier with protective rip
            rap is proposed to support the two bridge units.

            Additional ramps are also proposed -at each end of the bridge to achieve clearance
            height. Elevated boardwalk is shown on Steere Island which will involve less
            earthwork, reducing the use of construction equipment and increasing sensitivity to
            existing site conditions. In addition, a 20'long bridge will span the drainage way at
            Rotary Park. This provision maintains existing water flow as well as vehicular access
            consistent with the other bridge.

            Crushed lim estone paths throughout Steere Island are proposed as a method of
            accessibility which also allows flexibility in construction. The pathways provide a
            perimeter trail and connections to the boat dock, log cabin visitor/interpretive center,
            and various overlooks and picnic/seating areas.

            Locations for p icnic/seating areas are indicated on the site plan which provide unique
            views. Topics for interpretive signage and information are suggested in relation to the
            location of these seating areas. Such topics include, but are not limited to, regional
            Sault history, Sugar Island settlement, shipping channel development, St. Mary's River
            Trail, and surrounding natural habitats and wildlife. The log cabin will serve as the
            center for such information as well as interpretation of the cottage culture of the
            islands. A fire bowl is also proposed which will provide for group gatherings and star
            gazing.

            The Natural Resource Assessment identified a preferred location for a fishing dock
            which is shown on the southwest shoreline of Steere Island. The dock is near the
            observation area designated to view the nearby Great Blue Heron rookery. This
            location overlooks a beaver dam as well as the feeding grounds and nesting area of the
            herons along the shoreline of Island No. 2. Isolation of the rookery is encouraged to
            avoid disturbance of their habitat.


            Pedestrian access to Island No. 2 is not proposed at this time. The prime location for a
            bridge structure is within close proximity to the heron rookery. A water taxi service will
            ferry visitors from landings at the south end of Steere Island and the north end of Island

                                                       76








              No. 2. Private boat access will be encouraged by the location of a boat dock within the
              protected channel at the northeast tip of Island No. 2. Woodchip trails throughout the
              upland area will connect the boat dock with a group campind"area and other overlooks.
              This trail will blend with the more rustic uses on the island and provide more
              challenging step down access.

              A perimeter trail along the shoreline will provide views of the shipping canal, while an
              inland trail will traverse various woodland and wetland ecosystems. Location of the
              trails are beyond the nesting area of the heron rookery and provide a buffer space for
              expansion of the rookery. The camping area will provide restrooms for day users and
              up to six sites for rustic camping. Individuals using the St. Mary's River Trail will be
              able to access this camping area which will provide an excellent destination along the
              shoreline route.

              The campsites area located next to a unique'stand of black ash which is also able to
              be viewed from a 20'wooden tower proposed at the edge of the upland area. This -
              tower also provides a perspective of the lowlands and nearby shipping channel.
              Boardwalk continues from the tower and extends to an observation plaff orm within the
              lowland habitat.


              Concept E provides pedestrian and watercraft access to the islands while suggesting a
              variety of activities. The step down uses of the islands is enhanced by the selective
              use of bridges, and sensitive treatment of the unique natural resources of the islands.
              Interaction With the St. Mary's River Trail and shipping channel is addressed with the
              inclusion of boat docks, overlooks and signage. The education and awareness of the
              history and culture of the islands is a continual element as interpreted by signage and
              the adaptive re-use of the log cabin.






















                                                          77





                                                                                                                                                                          Site Master Plan
                                                                                                                                                                         Concept "E

                                                                                 0                             0

                                                                                                                0
                                                                                                                 0                                                                       Rotary Park
                                                                                                        N       0                                           Additional parkingAmprove existing
                                                                                                         RESIRDOMS                                                          restrooms
                                                                                   GRIOX                     a
                                                                                                         00                                                 Bridge over dralnr4ay
                                                                .=AT               BRIDGE            0                                                      Paved poth to shoreline
                                                                                                   0
                                                                              ME* BOAT                                                                                                 Steere Island
                                                                                                                                                            Claarspan brl@qes for boat clearance
                                                                                    0                                                                       Ac-cessible pathr4ay cround perimeter
                                                                                                                                                            Barrier free fishing platform
                                                                                 0                                          Private kAmW                    Docking area at boathouse remnants
                                                                              0                                                                             Improve Log Cabin for:
                                                                                                                                                            ehelter and
                                                                          0 Unnolned                                                                        Vlsitoh@, Center (cottage culture, ato)
                                                                          0                                                                                 Benches / picnic, areas along trail
                                                                          0                                                                                 Interpretive signage / lookouts
                                                                                                 DAM      BLUE HERON
                                                                                                            ROOKERY                                         Hater taxi landing
                                                                                                                                                                                                 Island #2
                                                                          0                                                                                 Cluster camping area (1--b 51tes)
                                                                          0                                                                                 Primitive restrooms
                                                                          0                                                                                 Interpretive signage / overlooks
                                                                          0                                        FK1W                                     Be=,has / plonic, areas along trail
                                                                          0                                                                                 Hater taxi landing / boat dock
                                                                          0                                                                                 Nood-alp trails through Noodionds
                                                                          0      Boy SWA                                                                    Tov4cr overlooking shipping channel,
                                                                          0        WNW                                   CAW                                vioodlands and bNetland habitat
                                                                                                                                                            BoardiNalk trail and platform
                                                                          0                                       BLACK ASH                                 In vietlanI:15
                                                                          0                                         FOREST

                                                                          0

                                                                          0

                                                                          0
                                                                          0                                                     J@
                                                                            0

                                                                              0

                                                                                 0

                                                                                                                        we
                                                                                   0
                                                                                       0                                                                                        Interpretive Key:
                                                                                                                             Coe.."                                             SCW40E TO BE LOCATED AT PICHIC/SEATING
                                                                                            0                                                                                   0vudmK ARDS wrrH mauwnvt wFoRmAmH
                                                                                                                                                                                AS DESCRIBED BELOV
                                                                                                                                                                                -Z:::v - SAULT CULTURE -0
                                                                                                                                                                                         SUGAR ISLAND SETREMENT AND CURRENT
                                                                                                       0"                                   A,                                           USES
                                                                                                                                                                                         OBSERVATION OF HERON ROOKERY AND FEEDING
                                                                                                            0                                                                            AREA. BEAVER DAN No FISHIW HOLE
                                                                                                                                                                                                     CURRENT DWOMPMENT OF T14E
                                                                                                                                                            WNW NCIL 1                   S-TAVRr-SRM TPAL
                                                                                                                                                                                         ST. MAWS RNER TRAIL MARKER
                                                                                                                    0,
                                                                                                                       S.                                                       -ZV CREATION OF SHPPING CHANNEL. CUWENT USE
                                                                                                                          0                                                              SHIPPING TRADE AND LOCAL ECONOMY
                                                                                                                                                                                         BLACK ASH - AND UIRLAND -
                                                                                                                             0                                                           ISLAND FORMATION, ROMNAL GEDGRAIWY
                                                                                                                                                    0
                                                                                                                                                                                         WEILAND K-"T AND SCOSYSIEWS
                                                                                                                                                   0
                                                                                                                                  01
                                                        Mixick3al Marina                                                             0             0
                                                 (17oat 4 canoe rental)                                                                           0
                                                                                                                                          0     0
                                                                                                                                      0   0  0  0
                                                                                                                                                   0

                                                                                                                                        78

                                                                                                  Feasbft Sbidy
                                                    MASTER PLAN
                               M             SITE                                              Lower River Islands                           C=AT
                                  I                                                  I                                               I                 LA.T.
                                                                                            City of Sadt Sft Marie







             Appendix G - Sault Ste. Marie CiW Commission Resolution of Adopti                     on


                     RESOLUTION TO ADOPT LOWER RIVER ISLANDS FEASIBILITY STUDY
                                       FOR THE CITY OF SAULT STE. MARIE
                             PREPARED BY CAPITAL CONSULTANTS, JANUARY 1996

                   WHEREAS,     a feasibility study to analyze what options are available for access to
                                the City-owned Lower River Islands and how best to develop the
                                islands for public recreation purposes was determined necessary;
                                and


                   WHEREAS,     financial assistance was provided by the Coastal Zone Management
                                Act, Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National
                                Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, administered through the
                                Michigan Coastal Zone Management Program, Department of
                                Environmental Quality, Land and Water Management Division; and

                   WHEREAS,     a special Islands Study Steering Committee made up of
                                representatives from the Community Services Board, the Planning
                                and Development Commission, and the general public was
                                appointed by the City to help oversee the completion of the study;
                                and

                   WHEREAS,     Capital Consultants was selected by the City to undertake the study;
                                and

                   WHEREAS,     the study has now been completed and submitted to the City for
                                approval,

                   THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lower River Islands Feasibility Study
                                for the City of Sault Ste. Marie prepared by Capital Consultants be
                                adopted.

                                I hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was adopted at a
                                Regular Meeting of the City Commission of the City of Sault Ste.
                                Marie, Michigan on Monday, February 5, 1996.





                                Lori J. Clarke, City Clerk
                                City of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan



                                                       79



                                                                                                                          NOj          SERVI
                                                                                                                                          VI ES CTR UBRARY



                                                                                                                                                         6
                                                                                                                          3   6668            12001
                                                                                                                                            c