Keepers of the Shiawassee and community partners are advancing efforts to improve access to the Shiawassee River, ensuring safe, sustainable, and equitable recreational opportunities for all. With full funding secured, the Hogan Road Kayak Launch project will create a designated river access point, increasing safety, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing public enjoyment of this natural resource.
A More Accessible River Experience
The Shiawassee River is vital to the region’s history and outdoor recreation. For years, individuals launching kayaks at Hogan Road have navigated challenges, including steep embankments, roadside parking, and erosion-prone riverbanks. This new launch will provide a stable, well-designed entry point and an off-road parking area, making the river more accessible for residents and visitors.
"The Hogan Road launch is the perfect exit point after an hour-and-a-half trip from downtown Linden—the perfect length for families with young children and 'newbies.' It is also the gateway to the rest of the river," said Maggie Yerman, a dedicated Keepers of the Shiawassee member. "Mother Nature has many wonderful surprises downriver for paddlers launching from Hogan Road. They will find the river is narrow in places with curving pathways that move around fallen trees. This is not a section to race through, but to take the time to see the beautiful wildlife below them, on shore, and in the air."
Collaboration Makes Progress Possible
The Community Foundation of Greater Flint played a role in advancing this project, with a $10,500 grant from the following funds:
- Franklin D. Adams Fund – $3,222
- Leroy F. Ball Fund – $2,000
- William and Alberta Close Memorial Fund – $2,778
- Jeremy and Amy Piper Fund – $2,000
- Wade Pyles and Duane Elling Community Fund – $500
Additional funding has been provided by the Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network (Saginaw WIN), the Shiawassee Water Trail Coalition, and local donors. The Keepers also raised $12,350 through community fundraising, including proceeds from the Shiawassee River Fest—a celebration that brought people together through music, outdoor activities, and education.
"Raising funds is always difficult for non-profits," Yerman noted. "We worked hard to make our communities aware of the Keepers and our efforts to care for the river. Our presence at events like River Fest helped us connect with people, and many have become supporters who make much-appreciated donations each year."
A Community-Led Effort
In a critical step forward, the Fenton Township Board has agreed to administer the project’s Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) grant, ensuring smooth execution of the construction phase. With support from the Keepers of the Shiawassee and engineering expertise from Rowe Professional Services Company, the Township will oversee bidding, contractor selection, and project management.
The total project cost is $74,100, which includes:
- $12,350 for engineering and permitting (already completed)
- $8,300 for site preparation (already completed)
- $53,450 for launch construction
The project will include a one-way driveway, gravel parking lot with angled spaces, a stable river launch, and amenities such as trash receptacles, picnic tables, benches, and fencing. By formalizing this access point, the project reduces environmental degradation, protects the riverbank from further erosion, and enhances safety for all visitors.
"Hogan Road has been an access point to the river for many years, but people would park on the side of the road and struggle to carry their boats over a berm to reach the water," said Yerman. "Since there is a slippery clay bank, many found it difficult to get in or out of the river. Our launch will make it easier and safer to park their vehicles and access the water."
Strengthening the Local Economy and Well-Being
As a State and National Water Trail, the Shiawassee River attracts paddlers across Michigan and beyond, supporting local businesses and tourism. This new launch will strengthen the region’s outdoor recreation economy while creating opportunities for individuals and families to experience the benefits of nature, physical activity, and community connection.
"The launch will have an economic impact on the surrounding communities when people spend their money here," Yerman explained. "Paddlers usually need to purchase something—whether it is gas for the trip home or a stop at the party store or restaurant to quench their thirst and hunger after a day on the water."
Pending approval of the MDNR review, construction is hopeful for Fall 2025 marking a significant step toward increased public access and environmental stewardship. This effort reflects the power of collaborative giving, community-driven action, and a shared commitment to ensuring equitable access to natural spaces for all.
A Future for Generations to Enjoy
Through partnership, local leadership, and environmental advocacy, the Hogan Road Kayak Launch will soon become a welcoming and sustainable gateway to the Shiawassee River. This project represents more than just improved access—it is an investment in community well-being, environmental conservation, and the shared enjoyment of our region’s natural beauty.
"The most rewarding part of this project is seeing the excitement when we tell people about it," Yerman reflected. "Our core group of volunteers is in their 60s and 70s, but this project has brought in younger people who are eager to get involved. Personally, I have been launching here for 20 years, but I can no longer get in and out of my boat on such a slippery bank without help. I look forward to the independence that I will gain once the new launch is completed."
