Riverside

Riverside is nestled between what were once two curving lakes, now merged into a single body of water after the settlers excavated the land bridge that separated them. This artificial lake serves as both a natural defense and a vital resource. The settlement lies northwest of Ann Arbor, near the Huron River, in a secluded but strategic position. The surrounding terrain is lush, with forests that provide cover and resources, while the lake and river offer water for drinking, farming, and fishing. The settlement's unique geography makes it difficult for raiders to approach undetected, giving the settlers a strong defensive advantage.

Trade & Relations

Riverside Bluff enjoys a healthy trading relationship with Haven, frequently exchanging crops, purified water, and mechanical expertise for supplies like medicine, ammunition, and other essential goods. Both settlements share information about raiders, the undead, and other potential threats, occasionally sending teams to support one another during difficult times. The artificial lake and defensible position make Riverside Bluff a strong ally in the region, and their focus on sustainability ensures that they have valuable resources to offer their neighbors.

Demographics

The people of Riverside Bluff are resourceful and resilient, known for their cooperative spirit and self-sufficiency. Their community has adapted well to the post-apocalyptic environment, thriving by carefully managing the natural resources around them.  Riverside Bluff is home to around 70 people, a mix of families, engineers, scavengers, and farmers. They are led by Samantha Delaney, who has a background in environmental science and emphasizes sustainable practices.

Infrastructure

Water Purification: The merged lake serves as a primary water source, with a sophisticated purification system built from scavenged technology and natural filtration methods. Clean water is one of Riverside Bluff’s key resources, which they trade with Haven and other settlements during dry spells.
Crops: The fertile land surrounding the lake allows them to grow crops such as corn, beans, potatoes, squash, and a variety of root vegetables. They also maintain an orchard of apple trees and cultivate berry bushes. Along with staples, they grow herbs like basil, thyme, and mint for both medicinal and culinary use.
Electrical Power: The settlement has a small hydroelectric turbine powered by the flow between the lake and the Huron River. Though limited, this provides essential electricity for water purification, medical equipment, and communication systems. The settlers are cautious with their power usage but are exploring ways to expand their capacity.
Vehicles & Fuel: Riverside Bluff maintains a few vehicles, including a pickup truck and a cargo van used for scavenging and trade. They’ve also developed a process for producing biofuel from plant oils and animal fats, supplementing it with scavenged gasoline. Bicycles are often used for quick travel within the local area.
Workshops & Repair Facilities: A small mechanical workshop is central to the community, where settlers repair vehicles, tools, and repurpose scavenged technology. Skilled mechanics keep Riverside Bluff’s equipment running and often trade their expertise with neighboring settlements like Haven.
Timber & Lumber: The forests surrounding the lake and bluff provide ample timber for construction and fuel. The settlement operates a sawmill powered by their hydroelectric system to produce lumber for building structures and trading with nearby communities.
Livestock & Fishing: They raise chickens, goats, and pigs, providing eggs, milk, meat, and leather. Fishing is an essential activity, with the lake and river offering a steady supply of fish, which they supplement with foraged plants and wild game from the surrounding forests.

Founding Date

2031