Brule, Michigan, US/Wisconsin, US |
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| Usual Difficulty | I-II (varies with level) |
|---|---|
| Avg. Gradient | 11 fpm |
| Max Gradient | 17 fpm |
| Name | Range | Difficulty | Updated | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MENOMINEE RIVER NEAR FLORENCE, WI | ||||
| usgs-04063000 | 500 - 4000 cfs | II | 00h55m | 1160 cfs (rc= 0.5 ) |
Probably moderate flows. (Unconfirmed. We need your input. Add a comment or report regarding best flows.) Gauge (1760 sq.mi. drainage) lies downstream of major trib, and upstream of the rapids on this reach, thus very accurately reflects flow for that rapids. |
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The main reason to do this reach is Big Bull Rapids. As the river encounters some islands, rapids
reportedly lie on each side of the island. The left channel carries the majority of the flow, and
has large waves and some large rocks. The right channel is characterized as having tight turns
and being likely to be brush-filled, thus a less likely route (at least by old canoe guide
descriptions).
We do not currently have information as to whether these rapids (either side) contain sufficient
interest or potential for whitewater playboaters to merit the flatwater access and egress which
appear to be necessary.
Resolution on satellite view is excellent. We highly recommend going to the 'Maps' tab, clicking
'Satellite', and zooming-in on the islands at Big Bull Rapids to have a
look.
As reported by Brendan Hammond (2010-10-23)
Ran this stretch a few years ago, no real whitewater whatsoever.
However, way up on the headwaters of the Brule, where Brule Creek flows into Elvoy Creek there is
a short section where Brule Creek drops 20'+. There was a hydropower plant and dam at one time
there. Some of the penstock is still visible. These creeks start in springs and are largely
groundwater-fed. This fact, along with the amount of wood in the larger drops, and the small
drainage area, probably makes it a no go.
For what it's worth, it appears drainage at that location is on the order of 33 square miles. In
theory, that could be enough to make runnable flows at least a good handful of times a
year. However, the nearest downstream gauge (at Hwy.2 near Florence) has 366 sq.mi. drainage, and
has a "10$ flow" of only 539 cfs. Assuming proportional contribution across the
watershed (not necessarily valid), this implies flow up at the Brule Creek/Elvoy Creek area would
be less than 54 cfs 90% of the time (>328 days per year).
No photos found. Gauge cited is 0.5 miles downstream from the confluence of the Brule and the Michigamme Rivers (where, together, they become the Menomonee River).
Since that is where the rapids on this run lie, it is the most appropriate gauge for this reach, and should be very accurate for flows in these rapids.
| Name | Range | Difficulty | Updated | Level | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MENOMINEE RIVER NEAR FLORENCE, WI | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| usgs-04063000 | 500 - 4000 cfs | II | 00h55m | 1160 cfs (rc= 0.5 ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Probably moderate flows. (Unconfirmed. We need your input. Add a comment or report regarding best flows.) |
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Gauge (1760 sq.mi. drainage) lies downstream of major trib, and upstream of the rapids on this reach, thus very accurately reflects flow for that rapids. |
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No Comments
Users can submit comments.| Mile | Rapid Name | Class | Features (Legend) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.0 | possible alternate access | N/A |  |
| 0.0 | possible alternate access | N/A | |
| 0.0 | *Possible* park-and-play | N/A | |
| 0.0 | Big Bull Rapids | II | |
| 0.0 | Gauge location | N/A |
There appears to be a residence just upstream from the islands and rapids. I believe the driveway is gated at the road, precluding using this as access.
In the odd chance the gate is open, if one obtained permission from the property owner, it may make it possible to use this location as a launch, and possibly make a 'park-and-play' (with carry-up), if any worthwhile play were to be found in these rapids.
To cut out some of the flatwater, access may be possible right at the confluence of the Brule and Michigamme Rivers, where the combined flow is now the Menominee River. The islands and Big Bull Rapids are not far downstream.
*NOT ON THE LISTED REACH*
On the Michigamme River, not far upstream of the confluence, lies Peavy Falls Dam. Under ordinary circumstances, all flow is likely diverted through a penstock between the dam and powerplant, leaving a dry riverbed. In the event of unusually high flows, it is possible that there may be flow in this short stretch of riverbed.
We currently have no knowledge or information as to whether there might be any reasonable play here, or at what flows that might be expected to happen. So . . . has anyone ever taken a look at this? Anyone ever seen anything worth suiting up and trying to play? Report!
A number of islands split the flow. Rapids exist, though reportedly are 'too tight' and twisty for canoe passage on the right side of the island(s). We have little awareness of any more details regarding the merits (possible play) of any of this area. Anyone with more specific knowledge is encouraged to add a comment or report.
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B) Brule R. Dam to Ryneers Rd. (3.4 miles), Brule Michigan, US/Wisconsin, US (mobile)
