History of the Creek
From the Beginning
Like most of Michigan, the land surrounding the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek was at one time mostly forest. The land’s soils were and still are mostly made up of clay. The topography is flat and promotes very little gradient for the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek. Of course, after most of the trees were harvested to fulfill Michigan’s booming logging market, the area experienced a direct transition into agricultural land. Drainage for the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek was created to accommodate primarily agricultural use—not knowing that the area would eventually be part of one of the nation’s largest metropolises. The North Branch of the Ecorse Creek was first established as a County Drain by petition in 1861.
Along with Detroit, the land surrounding the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek grew fast and experienced heavy commercial, and residential development throughout the 20th century. Combined together, the quick growth, agricultural-level drainage, clay soils, and low gradient, created the perfect recipe for future flooding. As each decade passed, and more and more people established residences near the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek, it became evident that flooding issues would have to be dealt with.
Beginning in the mid-1960’s, officials at the local, state, and federal levels began to take notice of the flooding events that were taking place along the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek. Periodic heavy storm and runoff events were causing some major flooding along the North Branch of the Ecorse Creek, and those living within the flooded areas suffered heavily. Significant damage occurred as a result of flooded basements and overland flooding. In many instances, roads became impassable and houses were not safe to live in until the waters receded. Besides having to replace all of their damaged property, homeowners had to make sure their homes were properly disinfected to remove harmful bacteria. Some flooding reduction solutions were developed and provided some relief, but the flooding continued. Public officials and residents alike were becoming increasingly frustrated.