Thornapple River Watershed Council
Mission: To protect, preserve, and enhance the quality, aesthetic, and recreational value of the Thornapple River Watershed through education, planning, and management.
Watershed Facts
The Thornapple River Watershed (TRW) is the largest subbasin of the Lower Grand River Watershed (lgrow.org)
~100 miles of river
876 square miles of watershed draining to river
742 miles of streams
227 lakes, 7,844 acres of water!
Runs through Barry, Eaton, and Kent counties
Drains into the Grand River then to Lake Michigan
Watershed land use:
52.1% agricultural production
25.8% forest
12.9% other non-production vegetation
3.3% paved road or airport
2.1% low to high density urban
1.5% water
1.5% wetland
Upcoming Events
Annual Thornapple River Cleanup
Saturday, September 13, 2025
NEW THIS YEAR! We're doing things a little different for the Annual Thornapple River Clean Up and are partnering with West Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters in the Mayor's Grand River Clean up!
The Thornapple River is the largest tributary to the Grand River in the lower stretch. If you would like to participate in the clean up you can register now at https://www.mobilize.us/michiganlcv/event/815781/
When choosing your site, click the "other" option and let them know the nearest bridge that you'll be cleaning up by on the Thornapple River.
Additionally, we will be hosting a table at the Barry County Outdoor Youth Day at Historic Charlton Park: Village, Museum & Recreation Area in Hastings right next to the Coldwater River Watershed Council.
You can be an important part of the Thornapple River Watershed. You can help by participating in our annual cleanup and becoming a sponsor!
