Stephan Bridge crosses the Au Sable River at what is considered by many fly fishers as the “holy waters” for river-trout fly fishing in northern Michigan. The dense cedar-lined banks on this portion of the river’s main branch provide cool, stable water temperatures and numerous places for river trout to hide, spawn, and grow really large. Being decently-experienced canoeists, our family enjoys putting in at the Stephan Bridge landing and quietly paddling downstream for a nice four-hour ride. We have seen eagles, deer, beavers, river rats, foxes, bobcats, turtles, frogs, dozens of bird and waterfowl breeds, and, thankfully, loads of trout on these peaceful floats. There is even talk of an elusive bear whose presence has been caught on trail cameras. Development, tree loss, erosion, rubbish, invasive species, and noise pollution—while still mostly manageable—threaten this beautiful river. These canoe trips have helped us learn about the River Guardians through the Au Sable River Property Owners Association, a group of waterfront property owners along the river. The group carefully watches the river and runs the Cedars for Au Sable program where waterfront residents purchase and plant native cedar seedlings along the banks of their property to help maintain shade, prevent erosion, and stabilize river temperatures—all essential for good river health. With so few untouched places in nature left, we hope that this little wilderness remains as we have found it: in good condition.