Late July 2019
Early June 2019
Spring 2013
Your Water Questions Answered
Click to watch LIVE August 17, 2019 CNN interview with Fishtown Preservation’s executive director, Amanda Holmes.
What’s going on with the water in Fishtown?
Water levels are high because both Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan are near records highs. Water coming over the dam meets Lake Michigan on the Leland River—in Fishtown. Fortunately, water levels remain just below the docks most of the time. Sometimes, though, weather over Lake Michigan generates a seiche—the bathtub-like sloshing that happens with all lakes. Seiches can bring flood-waters into Fishtown, although they don’t stay long.
Should I worry?
Probably not. Water levels on the Great Lakes have historically run on long cycles between high and low. For instance, just six years ago waters were near record lows. Through all of these literal highs and lows, Fishtown has adjusted. However, these high waters have been taking a growing toll on Fishtown’s docks and buildings.
What are we doing about it?
Fishtown Preservation has spent the past four years preparing to improve Fishtown’s infrastructure. We’re going to rehabilitate some of our buildings and make changes to cope with the water. Making changes on public waters is complicated, but we’re near the end of the whole planning and approvals process. Improvements will begin in mid-October.
How can I help?
You can donate to protect Fishtown. Our plans are almost complete, but the effects of the high waters have substantially raised the amount we must raise to finish the work. Your gift to The Campaign for Fishtown will keep Fishtown literally above water. Click to learn more about The Campaign for Fishtown or donate below. Thank you for helping to save one of the Great Lake’s greatest treasures.
You can support The Campaign for Fishtown with:
- One-time gift of cash or securities
- Multi-year pledge forms:
– Campaign for Fishtown pledge form – payable by December 31, 2021
– Jeffris Fishtown pledge form – payable by June 30, 2021 - For more information call Amanda Holmes at 231-256-8878 or email [email protected]