Residents Oppose Proposed Gravel Mine Near Watkins Lake State Park

Concerns raised over noise, traffic, and environmental impact of 600-acre mining operation in Norvell Township.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Residents in Norvell Township and surrounding areas have voiced strong opposition to a proposed 600-acre gravel mining operation by American Aggregates of Michigan near Watkins Lake State Park. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the park's natural resources, wildlife, and visitor experience due to increased noise, dust, and traffic from the mining activity.

Why it matters

Watkins Lake State Park is a regional natural treasure that draws visitors from across Michigan and beyond to experience its diverse ecosystems and rare species. Residents fear the proposed gravel mine could threaten the park's delicate environment and disrupt the peaceful experience of park visitors.

The details

American Aggregates of Michigan is seeking a conditional use permit and site plan review for the aggregate mining operation on Horning Road, located west of Watkins Lake State Park. The township has hired a consultant to review the proposal, and officials are meeting with state agencies to gather more information. Residents have raised concerns about potential impacts on groundwater, wetlands, wildlife, noise, and dust from the mining activity.

  • In November 2025, Norvell Township received an application from American Aggregates of Michigan for the proposed gravel mine.
  • On February 17, 2026, residents spoke out against the proposal at a township board of trustees meeting.

The players

American Aggregates of Michigan Inc.

A company seeking a conditional use permit and site plan review for a 600-acre aggregate mining operation near Watkins Lake State Park.

Norvell Township

The local government reviewing the proposal for the gravel mine and gathering input from residents and state agencies.

Watkins Lake State Park

A regional natural treasure that draws visitors from across Michigan to experience its diverse ecosystems and rare species, which could be impacted by the proposed gravel mine.

Christine Kanta

A Manchester Township resident who frequently visits Watkins Lake State Park and is concerned about the potential impact of the proposed gravel mine.

William Sutherland

The Norvell Township supervisor who is overseeing the review process for the gravel mine proposal.

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What they’re saying

“The value of the park clearly extends beyond Norvell Township. It is a regional treasure. By contrast, a large-scale mining operation adjacent to the park poses substantial and lasting risk.”

— Christine Kanta, Manchester Township resident (mlive.com)

“Then I thought, what's going to happen when that's truck, after truck, after truck?”

— Andrea Hathaway, Manchester Township resident (mlive.com)

What’s next

The next step in the review process is for the Norvell Township planning commission to hold a public hearing on the proposal, after which the township board will consider the planning commission's recommendation.

The takeaway

This proposal highlights the tension between economic development and environmental preservation, as residents seek to protect the natural beauty and ecological integrity of Watkins Lake State Park from the potential impacts of a large-scale gravel mining operation in the surrounding area.