SNAKE CREEK
RESTORATION
At Dow Gardens, the loss of the ash forest canopy due to the emerald ash borer created an unexpected opportunity: to restore, reimagine, and reconnect. In collaboration with Jonathan Alderson Landscape Architects, Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens transformed the affected area into a thriving ecological corridor that invites exploration and supports biodiversity.
New plantings include 19 species of native Michigan canopy trees, carefully selected to enhance resilience and support local insect and wildlife communities. These efforts not only restore balance to the landscape but also contribute to the overall health of the regional ecosystem.
The stream, once severely eroded, has been stabilized with benched banks to reduce flooding and improve visitor access to water features. As part of a broader vision, two bridges were added to seamlessly connect key areas of the Forest, encouraging discovery and deeper engagement with nature.
Today, guests can experience a renewed natural environment. Traverse wet meadows, tamarack groves, maple-beech thickets, and oak-mixed hardwood stands, all while witnessing firsthand the power of restoration and thoughtful design.
Nurturing Nature
In response to the devastation caused by the emerald ash borer, Dow Gardens undertook a major restoration effort along Snake Creek. The project transformed the area into a more resilient, ecologically diverse landscape, and opened new opportunities for guests to explore and connect with nature.
Habitat Restoration
The ash forest once lining Snake Creek had been lost to invasive pests. Dow Gardens used this moment to reimagine the space with native species that support long-term health. The final plant palette included 19 species of canopy trees native to Michigan, which now bolster local wildlife and pollinator populations. Visitors can now enjoy a revitalized corridor filled with wet meadows, floodplain forests, tamarack groves, and hardwood stands.
Improved Access
As part of the restoration, Dow Gardens introduced new bridges and walkways, creating easy pedestrian connections between the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library, Whiting Forest, and other parts of the landscape. Guests now enjoy closer access to the stream via thoughtfully placed boardwalks and natural-surface trails.
Stream Stabilization
Years of stormwater runoff had caused serious erosion along Snake Creek. The project addressed this by realigning sections of the stream, adding a floodplain bench, and reinforcing the banks with stacked stone. These improvements reduced erosion and helped manage water flow more sustainably.