| The Natural Rivers Program has been in effect in Michigan since 1970 and currently protects 16 river systems and 2,091 miles of river state-wide. The primary goals of this project were to assess the level of Department knowledge and support for the Natural Rivers Program, prioritize future Program projects, and determine if the effectiveness of a Natural River designation could be monitored and evaluated by reviewing existing data on selected natural resource values of a designated river in Michigan.;Face-to-face interviews were administered to 14 key decision-makers who are members of the Department of Natural Resources Management Team. Results suggested a moderate level of Program knowledge with a strong level of Program support from the majority of Management Team members. Results also prioritized future projects for the Natural Rivers Program.;Three selected resource values from the Betsie River were reviewed for their ability to provide a measure of the effectiveness of a Natural River designation. Resource values of water quality, the fishery, and the condition of the riparian area were selected for review. As a result of this review, a resource monitoring and assessment plan will be developed for the Natural Rivers Program that utilizes resource partners and professionals, and includes ecological, social, and economic measures. |
