Community Collaboration Continues Along the White River

Local partners highlight riverfront improvements, river monitoring, educational  programs, and upcoming winter event 

White River Watershed stakeholders are continuing their shared commitment to celebrating, protecting, and enhancing the White River and surrounding communities.  From riverfront revitalization to classroom education and restoration efforts, collaboration remains at the heart of ongoing efforts across the watershed. 

Hesperia Riverfront Activation 
Exciting progress continues along the White River in Hesperia, where recent improvements by the Village of Hesperia to Vida Weaver Park have encouraged more community use and outdoor enjoyment. The Village has added new sidewalks & upgraded fencing to complement the pavilion constructed in 2024, and arranged for regular maintenance of restroom facilities for public use. 
Summer events at the park’s pavilion saw strong participation from families, anglers, and visitors alike. In addition, a new wood turtle mural project—developed in partnership with local teacher Monica Grimard—is underway to celebrate the area’s wildlife and educate residents about river ecology. 

Dam Updates and Public Input 
A public hearing regarding the White Cloud Dam is anticipated soon, with a public comment period open through November 10. See the City of White Cloud website for information on how to submit comments. 
In September, the Village of Hesperia hosted a public open house to gather feedback on dam rehabilitation. Information was provided on dam rehabilitation design options and the potential for a fish passage structure.

Education, Monitoring, and Stewardship 
Education and data-driven stewardship remain at the heart of watershed engagement. 
The White River Watershed Partnership (WRWP) currently monitors stream temperature at nine sites across the watershed. In collaboration with Trout Unlimited, WRWP also maintains five DIY Sensor Stations that track temperature, depth, and conductivity— providing valuable insight into river health. This data is publicly available at monitormywatershed.org. 
WRWP representatives have also partnered with the Oceana and Newaygo Conservation Districts and MSU Extension Service, volunteering time to introduce 5th and 6th grade students to macroinvertebrates—the small aquatic creatures that help indicate water quality and ecosystem health. 
With support from the Schrems West Michigan Chapter of Trout Unlimited, the Salmon in the Classroom program continues to thrive in area schools, giving middle school students the opportunity to raise and release salmon while learning about river ecosystems. This past June students released their salmon into the White River, participating in benthic macroinvertebrate sampling, fly casting and other activities connecting science with hands-on conservation. 
Additionally, the Conservation Stewards Program—offered through Michigan State University Extension—has returned for a second year in Newaygo County thanks to high community interest. The program trains volunteers in natural resource management and conservation leadership. 

Community Events 
The stakeholder team is planning a winter community event featuring local fishing guide Kevin Feenstra, who will share insights on Muskegon River angling and wildlife. Keep an eye on Trout Unlimited social media for more information. 

Ongoing Partnership Efforts 
Trout Unlimited and other partners continue to support habitat projects and other stream  restoration efforts, including planned habitat enhancement on the Upper South Branch  White River with Michigan DNR, replacement of undersized and perched culverts to  promote fish passage and flood resiliency with the US Forest Service, Michigan DNR and  Newaygo County Road Commission and access improvements to Podunk Landing with  the Oceana Road Commission and Oceana Conservation District.
The effort to restore Sadony Bayou in White River Township has made large strides over the past two years. One accomplishment was a study to evaluate the fish, insects, and water chemistry and another was a community visioning project that engaged residents in identifying the ways Sadony Bayou could once again be a vibrant and healthy part of the lower White River watershed. Plans are underway for determining options for restoring the bayou. 
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Through these collective efforts, the watershed community continues to demonstrate that meaningful progress happens when residents, organizations, and local leaders work together to care for the river that connects us all.