The Boyne River riverbank restoration by the Friends of the Boyne River begins July 6. Wildflowers and bushes are among the plantings along approximately 400 feet of the riverbank to prevent future erosion. Courtesy photo

Wildflowers are just one of nature's offerings the FOBR will use to prevent erosion of the banks in the future.

The FOBR project director is Nancy Cunningham. She made a presentation to city commissioners on June 26 at city hall.

"At the heart of the program are plants," Nancy Cunningham said. "They are an important natural method of erosion control."

Cunningham showed a drawing of the extensive root systems of some of the plants that will be used in the restoration. Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council worked with FOBR to provide information on plants, shrubs and grasses beneficial to erosion control.

The property along Old City Park belongs to the city, but FOBR have taken on the labor of love project. About 400 feet of the riverbank will be restored.

"We are very concerned about the health of the river," Cunningham said.

Restoration and erosion control plans include construction of stairs and railings, installing an irrigation system, a walkway, landscaping and provid- ing benches for enjoying the river view.

Friends of the Boyne River raised $60,000 through matching grants and individual contributions to fund the project.

Work is expected to begin on July 6. A permit was obtained from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. The restoration and erosion control project will take about four weeks to complete.

Commissioner Dan Adkison commended the group for its involvement, as did Mayor Eleanor Stackus. "I want to compliment the Friends of the Boyne River for following through," Stackus said.

"The whole group has worked extremely hard." Volunteers are needed and may call 231-582- 0157 for information.