The Pigeon River that our members and guests enjoy today is the result of a lengthy, two-phase  process that began in 2014, under the direction of a steering committee facilitated by Huron Pines, with drawdown of the former Lansing Club (Song of the Morning) pond, removal of a hydroelectric dam and construction of the timber frame bridge that now crosses the river just east of the Wheelhouse on Retreat Road. 

The actual restoration of the river, phase two, began in July 2021 after a lengthy planning and funding period and was completed in November 2021. The project addressed the lingering impact of over 100 years of damming the river, which occurred from the late 1800s through 2014. Multiple “braided” channels upstream of our property were combined into a single channel, and the river was re-meandered to flow more directly under the new bridge. Guests who joined us in the summer and fall of 2021 were able to witness construction, which included large excavating equipment, and huge mounds of rich organic humus and sand that was removed from the river!

The aim of the project was to reconnect the floodplain by pulling back decades of accumulated organic material, stabilize the river and surrounding riverbank, and create and protect wetland areas that support migratory birds and other wildlife. The result was improved in-stream and riverbank habitats while educating the public on the benefits of Natural Channel Design methods. Success! 

Now, when you visit Song of the Morning, you can enjoy the expansive view of the Pigeon River with its alternating active riffles and quiet pools; the native flowers, shrubs and trees planted to secure the river banks and restore the surrounding riparian meadow; and two oxbow ponds that provide both habitat for birds and other wildlife and still water elements appreciated by our members.