Join us for Woods & Wetlands Spring Speaker Series, “State of the Fox River,” on Sunday March 29, at 7:00 PM.  Gary Swick, President of the Friends of the Fox River will share history, stories and government challenges facing  the Friends of the Fox.  

The Fox River of Illinois begins in southern Wisconsin in a lake basin about 15 miles northwest of Milwaukee in Waukesha.  From there it flows south for 185 miles and  drops almost 500 vertical feet to join the Illinois River near Ottawa, Illinois.  The Fox River flows through the Illinois’ Chain of Lakes and then south through Lake, McHenry, Kane and DuPage Counties.   The Fox has many small islands and a strong flow which made it a good source of industrial power, early in our history, which resulted in the development of dams and mills.  Today there are hydroelectric, navigation and flood control dams in Wisconsin and Illinois.

Perhaps the most challenging problem of the Fox River is related to the development of hamlets and towns in the watershed.  As more people moved into areas near the river, it was overused and mistreated.  Industrial and residential waste, from manufacturing industries and sewage, have taken a toll on the waters of the Fox River.  At one time it was listed as “one of the most endangered rivers of America.”  

However, there is a bright side to the history of the Fox, thanks to the work of many organizations including the “Friends of the Fox River.”  Indeed, the water and stream quality is improving thanks to the work of dedicated professionals and volunteer organizations. Educational programs, watershed stream monitoring projects, river cleanups as well as special events are credited with bringing the importance of this wonderful resource to the attention of citizens.  

We are delighted to welcome Gary Swick, current President of the Friends of the Fox River for our March 29 Speaker Series at 7:00 PM. Gary is a retired high school Environmental Science teacher who is currently an instructor at Northern Illinois University.  As always, this program will be family friendly.  Register here! 

Please register and join us on Sunday March 29 to hear Gary Swick report on the state of the Fox!

Photo by Linda Tilton