Infrastructure improvements bolster Black River

What's happening: Continued infrastructure improvements are helping develop the Ottawa National Forest, specifically in the Black River Harbor area in Gogebic County. Improvement projects include the replacement of more than 1,000 feet of dock, and the repaving of the parking lot, launch area, and campground lanes. Additionally, a new bridge was constructed, connecting the harbor and campground, while significant enhancements were also made to the North Country Trail. The combined economic investment is $2.2 million.

Funding: Funding comes from a federal program called the Great American Outdoors Act, which helps fund public land use infrastructure funding and Bureau of Indian Education-funded schools. Signed in 2020, the act created the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund and the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Most projects from the Great American Outdoors Act specify public safety through better infrastructure.

What they're saying: “Superior Watershed Partnership has been partnering with the Ottawa (National Forest) for eight years. We are grateful to be able to provide a lot of people with their first job connecting with environmental restoration. They can take this experience and knowledge with them over their careers,” says Tyler Penrod, program manager for the Great Lakes Climate Corps and Climate Adaptation Task Force, and coordinator for the Superior Watershed Partnership.

What's next: The Ottawa National Forest Service has been actively revitalizing Black River Harbor, but more work remains to be done. Currently, the service is focusing on repairing face boards on the transient and recreation docks, as well as working toward reopening the pavilion. Additional funding from the Great American Outdoor Act was also used to catch up with other deferred maintenance projects.