In the heart of the Rouge River Area of Concern (AOC), two ambitious habitat restoration projects—at Wilcox Lake and Phoenix Lake—are bringing new life to these vital bodies of water. Spearheaded by ENTACT and funded through partnerships with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes National Program Office (GLNPO) and the Wayne County Parks District, these projects are tackling the long-standing environmental challenges of water quality degradation and habitat loss. But they are also about more than just the environment—they are about creating a lasting legacy for both the local ecosystem and the surrounding community.

For decades, the Rouge River and its connected lakes have faced the environmental strain of urbanization, with polluted runoff, invasive species, and habitat degradation threatening local wildlife and water quality. To combat these issues, a strategic plan was set in motion to restore key areas—Wilcox and Phoenix Lakes—using science, technology, and community-driven solutions. The goal: to improve water quality, promote biodiversity, and provide recreational opportunities for local residents while reducing the Beneficial Use Impairments (BUIs) identified in the Rouge River AOC.

WILCOX LAKE: LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR RESTORATION

The restoration of Wilcox Lake was a complex undertaking that involved meticulous planning, permitting, and execution. ENTACT’s team, armed with a range of equipment and technical expertise, worked through every stage of the project to ensure that the lake would not only recover but thrive for generations to come.

Sediment Removal and Habitat Construction

A major component of the Wilcox Lake restoration was dredging the lakebed to remove decades of accumulated contaminated sediment. This process is critical for creating clean, deep-water areas where fish can spawn and thrive. Over the course of the project, ENTACT removed over 9,000 tons of sediment—nearly 8,300 cubic yards—covering approximately 56,000 square feet of the lakebed. All sediment was solidified using ENTACT in-barge polymerization process which eliminated the need for upland processing.

Once the sediment was cleared, the team created new aquatic habitats. Sand spawning beds were strategically placed to support fish populations, and boulders and habitat logs were carefully arranged along the shoreline to provide shelter and breeding grounds for aquatic life. Over 1,500 tons of Class II sand were spread across one acre of the lakebed to create prime spawning habitats.

On the shoreline, 588 feet of habitat improvements were made, including the installation of log/root wad structures and native aquatic plant beds, which help stabilize the shoreline and encourage biodiversity.

Infrastructure Upgrades

To enhance the community’s access to this revitalized space, ENTACT also completed infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of new park benches, bike racks, and concrete walkways. These improvements ensure that visitors have a chance to enjoy the beauty of the lake while supporting environmental sustainability with new stormwater management features, such as a biogarden.

PHOENIX LAKE: BUILDING ON SUCCESS

While the restoration efforts at Phoenix Lake followed a similar ecological blueprint to Wilcox Lake, the focus here was more on habitat enhancement rather than large-scale infrastructure improvements.

Habitat Restoration and Spawning Beds

At Phoenix Lake, the placement of sand spawning beds extended over more than two acres, creating ideal conditions for fish to reproduce and supporting the overall health of the aquatic ecosystem. In total, more than 3,400 tons of MDOT Class II sand were placed across the lake, complementing the work done at Wilcox Lake.

Additionally, 22 habitat logs were placed to provide shelter and breeding areas for local fish and aquatic invertebrates. These simple but effective interventions are a cornerstone of the restoration efforts, providing lasting homes for aquatic life.

Invasive Species Management and Native Planting

Both lakes received attention to control invasive plant species that threaten local biodiversity. Through mechanical treatments and targeted herbicide applications, ENTACT addressed non-native vegetation, clearing the way for the planting of native species that will help regenerate the local ecosystem and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

A Community Triumph

The work being done at Wilcox and Phoenix Lakes is not just an ecological success—it’s a victory for the surrounding community. By improving water quality and restoring vital habitats, the projects will help revitalize these lakes for both wildlife and residents. With more opportunities for recreation, education, and outdoor activities, the community will be able to enjoy cleaner water and healthier ecosystems for years to come.

The impact of these restoration efforts goes beyond just the lakes themselves. By supporting biodiversity, enhancing local habitats, and improving water quality, these projects contribute to the long-term health of the entire Rouge River watershed. They also offer a blueprint for future restoration efforts, showing the importance of collaborative action, precision in execution, and a commitment to sustainability.

LOOKING AHEAD: LONG-TERM STEWARDSHIP

While significant progress has been made, the work does not end here. ENTACT remains committed to monitoring and maintaining the restored habitats, ensuring that they continue to thrive in the years to come. This includes ongoing assessments of water quality, wildlife populations, and the condition of the restored habitats.

These habitat restoration projects at Wilcox and Phoenix Lakes stand as a testament to what can be achieved when we combine science, technology, and a passion for the environment. Through the dedication of all those involved, these lakes are not only on a path to recovery but are also becoming vibrant ecosystems that will support future generations of wildlife and people alike.

By removing pollutants, enhancing biodiversity, and revitalizing shoreline habitats, these projects are contributing to a healthier, more sustainable future for the Rouge River AOC. As the work continues, the legacy of this restoration will be felt for years to come, benefiting both the community and the environment for generations to enjoy.