
Upper Wolf Creek
Watershed Management Plan
Project Location: This project focuses on the Upper Wolf Creek Watershed, a 11,600-acre portion of the River Raisin Watershed in northwest Lenawee County, Michigan.
Analysis of Issues: The primary issues are elevated levels of phosphorus and E. coli, identified through detailed water sampling and analysis. These pollutants stem from sources like failing septic systems, agricultural and residential runoff, and animal waste, impacting the water quality of drains, streams, and lakes within the watershed. This problem was identified in a more detailed study than the broader 677,800 acre River Raisin Watershed Management Plan completed in 2009.
Proposed Project: The project involves implementing the Upper Wolf Creek Watershed Management Plan, which includes continued water monitoring, pollutant source tracking, targeted outreach and training programs for residents, and the protection or expansion of watershed wetlands. The Watershed Council will seek implementation grants to fund these recommendations and has applied for funding for a similar study in the Macon Creek/Saline River watershed.
Partners and Collaboration: Key partners include the River Raisin Watershed Council, Lenawee Conservation District, Loch Erin Homeowners Association, LimnoTech (environmental consultant), EPA, and EGLE. The project also emphasizes community engagement to address resident awareness of pollution sources like septic system failures and runoff.

Project Benefits: The Upper Wolf Creek Watershed Management Plan aims to improve water quality by reducing phosphorus and E. coli pollution. Benefits include a healthier watershed, increased awareness among residents about pollution sources, and the potential for expanded wetlands. Implementing the plan will also inform future watershed management efforts in the region, such as the proposed study in the Macon Creek/Saline River watershed.
Project Status: The Upper Wolf Creek Watershed Management Plan has been approved by the EPA and EGLE after three years of work, including detailed studies and water sampling. The Watershed Council is now pursuing implementation grants and planning outreach programs. A similar study application for the Macon Creek/Saline River is pending.
Upcoming Project Work: The Watershed Council will focus on securing funding, developing and implementing outreach and training programs, continuing water monitoring and pollutant source tracking, and exploring wetland protection or expansion. The status of the Macon Creek/Saline River study application is expected this summer.

Project Milestones
Upper Wolf Creek Watershed Management Plan Approval: January 2025
Grant Applications for Implementation: Ongoing
Macon Creek/Saline River Study Application Status: Summer 2025
Implementation of Outreach and Monitoring Programs: Ongoing