Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the City of Westland become involved with the Rouge River project?
A: There are two branches of the Rouge River within the City. The northernmost is called the Middle Branch, which runs through Hines Park from Newburgh Road east to Inkster Road. The southerly branch goes through the Lower Rouge Parkway just north of Michigan Avenue at Venoy Road. The Federal Court mandated a cooperative effort among all the communities in the watershed.

Q: How much of the City of Westland drains to the Rouge River?
A: About 90% of the City area drains into the Middle Rouge and the Lower Rouge branches of the River. The remaining 10% of the City drains southeast to Ecorse Creek through the city of Inkster.

Q: I live three miles away from the Rouge River. How do my actions affect the Rouge River? Why should I care about the River and storm water runoff?
A: Rainwater that falls on your roof, sidewalk, driveway and street flows into storm sewers which eventually lead to the Rouge River. You might say that "we all live on waterfront property."

The health of the River directly affects you and all Westland residents. As the River has become cleaner, recreational uses have expanded. Trails and pathways allow you to walk or cycle along the River. It is now possible to fish in Newburgh Lake. Wildlife is more abundant. Science students can use the Rouge as a field study laboratory. Quality of life in Westland is linked to the Rouge River.

Q: How do wetlands affect the Rouge River?
A: Wetlands are nature's sponges - soaking up storm water and helping to filter out pollutants. Wetlands, therefore, play an important role in Rouge River water quality. Even small wetlands are important water quality filters for the Rouge River.

Q: How may species of frogs and toads have been found in the Rouge River in and near Westland?
A: Community volunteers working with Friends of the Rouge on the annual frog and toad survey have identified the following three species of frogs in Westland (heard at the Newburgh Rd./Michigan Avenue intersection):

Q: How and where can I recycle used motor oil?
A: To recycle used oil in small quantities (less than 5 gallons), put the oil in a sturdy, closed container and transport carefully. Several local businesses will accept used oil from citizens as a free public service:

• Westland Car Care Center - 7666 N. Wayne Road (will also accept used oil filters and transmission fluid)
• Murray's Discount Auto Store - 6144 N. Wayne Rd. www.murraysdiscount.com (used motor oil only).
• Westland Recycling Center, located at the Department of Public Service Yard, 37137 Marquette. Will accept used motor oil on Fridays and Saturdays ONLY, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Resident identification is required. For information, call 734-728-1770.

Q: I've heard that lawn fertilizer "greens up" the Rouge River as well as lawns. Should I stop using fertilizer?
A: A moderate amount of fertilizer carefully applied to the lawn should not be a pollution problem. Depending on the type of grass and sun/shade conditions, apply fertilizer 2 - 4 times a year. If you leave your grass clippings lay on the lawn after cutting, you can reduce the total amount of fertilizer by 25% or more. Earth-friendly fertilizer is recommended - look for the green sticker with the heron at local hardware stores. Apply only what you need and store excess with care. If fertilizer pellets fall on the sidewalk or driveway, sweep them back onto the lawn.

Q: My children are interested in the natural world. Where can I easily show them the Rouge River and enjoy outdoor trails?
A: Three places in Westland with easy access to trails and the Rouge River include:

Hix Park: Located off of Hix Road, north of Warren Avenue (west side). Hix Park connects with the Holliday Nature Preserve and Tonquish Creek, part of the Middle Branch, Rouge River. An interesting trail to follow is the Deer Trail, starting at the south side of the Hix Park Parking Area. For a trails map, see www.hnpa.org. See also public walks and programs, sponsored by the Holliday Nature Preserve Association.
Holliday Nature Preserve: Look for the Holliday Nature Preserve sign on the north side of Central City Parkway, west of Wayne Road. Use the parking area (visible from the road) and follow the trails to Tonquish Creek.
Nankin Mills Interpretive Center, Wayne County Parks, 33175 Ann Arbor Trail Park in the Nankin Mills parking lot and cross the road. A trail leads directly to the Rouge River.

Q: How can I learn more about Rouge River history?
A:The Nankin Mills Interpretive Center, Wayne County, is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am - 4 pm and other hours. Telephone 734-261-1990 for information. Permanent exhibits include:

• Nature era (Lobby): Learn about the Rouge River floodplain as a natural habitat. Through an interactive exhibit, discover how choices made by Westland residents affect the Rouge River.
• Native American Era (3rd floor): Meet the Anishnabeg tribes of Potawatomi, Odawa (Ottawa) and Ojibwa (Chippewa) - the first people of Western Wayne County.
• Grist Mill Era (3rd floor): Learn how Nankin Mills was a gristmill for settlers.
• Village Industries Era (2nd floor): Learn about Henry Ford's unique Village Industry Project and more.

Q: My house is on a septic system. Why should I hook up to the public sewer?
A: We live in a compact urban city where the soils (mostly sand) are not suitable for use of a septic system. It's been said that a septic system is designed to fail, as there is no chemical treatment for the liquid coming out of the tank into the drain field. Connection is necessary to protect your health and the health of the Rouge River.

Q: How many homes and businesses were on septic systems when this project started?
A: The City counted over 200 locations that were on septic systems. Right now, less than 100 septic systems remain.

Q: Isn't it expensive to hook up to the public sewer?
A: Yes it is with the average cost running about $5,000 per connection. The City is providing financing assistance in this connection process to ease the burden. There are several options available to residents who have limited financial resources. A low interest loan from the City paid off when the house is sold is one example.

Q: Who should I contact regarding this City financing?
A: Contact the Department of Public Services at (734) 728-1770 or visit the office at 37137 Marquette, located south of Ford Road and east of Newburgh Road.