Logjams provide habitat for fish and wildlife and play a role in stabilizing banks (more info). Logjams are abundant in the Rouge River because the many paved surfaces cause the river to rise and fall quickly after it rains. The loss of the ash trees in recent years due to the Emerald Ash Borer has worsened the problem.
Please help us track these constantly changing logjams by reporting any that you see using this simple app. Your reports will be added to the map below.
Reported Logjams
Join Our Woody Debris Work Team
For safe paddling, there are ways to open them without damaging the river. If you don’t mind donning a pair of waders and working along with a team, please consider volunteering with us to open logjams. This work is periodic and weather-dependent. Follow the Rouge Paddling Facebook page for the most current updates.
In the past, our Woody Debris Work Team volunteers were needed to help open logjams in Dearborn, at the Rouge Gateway Greenway Trailhead. Volunteers pulled trash collected at these log jams and removed floating wood from the river and out of the flood plain for bug and wildlife habitat. This is hard work that involves wading in the river and working with a team. If you are interested, sign up for our list and we will notify you about work days.
Join the Rouge Paddling Group on
Please Note:
The water is generally safe for boating if there has been no heavy rain or snowmelt; swimming is not recommended.
The Lower Rouge River Water Trail is a consortium of interested groups and communities and is a project of the Lower Rouge River Water Trail Leadership Committee. Contact us through info@therouge.org.