On May 17, 2008, the Challenge Chapter of Trout Unlimited volunteered to help Huron Pines with the restoration efforts of the Claybanks project on the Au Sable River, where human-caused erosion is contributing over 250 tons of sediment to the river each year. The day was full of hard work, like-minded conservationists, and strong winds.

Fourteen members of the Chapter, along with Thomas Buhr (Au Sable Big Water Preservation Association), two Huron Pines staff, and one Huron Pines AmeriCorps member spread 10 cubic yards of top soil. After the soil was distributed, grass seed was then spread over the entire area and covered with straw. The final step of the day was to lay jute netting over the entire slope to help with soil retention.

The measures taken at this workday will help protect the entire site until a final planting of trees and shrubs occurs in June. The Claybanks site has been an on-going project with Huron Pines, and the Challenge Chapter's efforts are part of the overall contribution of time and effort required to complete this project and restore the fish habitat in an area of the stream that has been heavily damaged by erosion and runoff.

The Challenge Chapter also received a letter of commendation from the US Department of Agriculture
(click here to view) [PDF]