environmental remediation and capping of underlying contaminated soils on the site that is now Menekaunee Harbor Park .
Transformation accomplished
Fast forward to 2020 , and the Menekaunee Harbor Park and boat launch have been transformed into a scenic , bustling area of Marinette . On any given day , visitors to Menekaunee Harbor can observe kayakers departing from their new launch to enjoy nature ’ s beauty along the Lower Menominee River . Anglers and water enthusiasts load their boats as they prepare to head out on the bay of Green Bay or the waters of Lake Michigan , while boaters from up and down the coastline and from Door County across the bay hook up to the transient docks to enjoy the park ’ s amenities and visit Marinette ’ s local businesses . Picnickers gather in the park ’ s two pavilions , children fish off the docks , and walkers enjoy the trails connecting to nearby Red Arrow Park .
Features throughout the park reflect the heritage of the people of Marinette , as well as that of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin , which recognizes the harbor site as its birthplace . A replica of the ancestral bear that stands at the tribe ’ s cultural museum in Keshena , Wisconsin , has been erected in the park to help tell the Menominee creation story . Also placed in the park is a statue of a sturgeon , a species on which the Menominee depended for their survival . A statue of a fisherman , a walleye sculpture , and a sawmill blade are among other symbols on display to honor Marinette ’ s logging and commercial fishing history .
“ The project tied a lot together , from the importance of the site as the birthplace of the Menominee , to the logging and fishing heritage of the area , to incorporating what ’ s important , by today ’ s standards , to those in the community who enjoy boating and fishing ,” said Marinette Mayor Steve Genisot . “ And the latter is bringing national , recognized fishing tournaments and many state tournaments here , along with the significant dollars that such events bring to the city . So it ’ s a real benefit to the community and everyone who comes and uses it .”
Scott Wilson , Ayres ’ vice president of development services who served as project director and lead in funding acquisition , said a team-oriented approach and commitment by all involved
Story continues on Page 7 www . AyresAssociates . com 5