Efforts to remove stamp sands from the Buffalo Reef take its next step forward seeking public comment on a recently published project analysis. The multi-agency Buffalo Reef Task Force has recently published a draft analysis for stamp and disposal that threatens a large spawning area for Lake Superior Whitefish off the eastern coast of the Keweenaw Peninsula.
The task force’s plans for remediation efforts will include the construction of an upland landfill. In addition to the proposed landfill, the task force seeks a third party that will manage the site and the jetty in the water. The initial cost for the project is projected to be 2.1 billion dollars. The Buffalo Reef Task Force will begin accepting public comment on the proposed project plans until March 1st. Those interested in learning more about the Buffalo Reef Task Force, the issue of stamp sands filling the reef, and its impact on whitefish spawn can find more details, along with links to the public comment page below.
Please direct comments to Stephanie Swart, Great Lakes Management Unit, Water Resources Division, at SwartS@Michigan.gov, or by U.S. Mail at EGLE, Water Resources Division, Great Lakes Management Unit, P.O. Box 30458, Lansing, MI 48909-7958.
DNR Showcase: Buffalo Reef Task Force Releases Draft Alternatives Analysis
Learn more about the Buffalo Reef Project here. To read the draft alternatives analysis, for more information on the ongoing effort to save Buffalo Reef, or to sign-up for the latest email updates, visit Michigan.gov/BuffaloReef.