Developing a relationship is fundamental to being a better Friend, so this month,
beat the heat and get connected to the river and its tributaries.
The opportunities for wow and wonder await.
Rusty Rodeo is Canceled
Based on recent rain and high water flow it’s not a safe situation for families.
Take Some Medicine
Research demonstrates the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of just
being outdoors. Friends of the Fox River is part of a local Nature Rx coalition
that is kicking off a self-guided trail program at four demonstration sites.
Also click here for more information.
Take a Creek Walk
Many of our public parks have shore access to the wealth of creeks in our watershed. Be curious and be safe. Shoes required as anywhere can have sharp objects submerged. Some surprises can be seen swimming while others cling to rocks. It is OK to pick up a rock for observation, but respect that is probably home to many tiny creatures. Replace it where it was. No collecting without a permit is the standard policy.
Get On the Water
Check with your local park, forest preserve or conservation district for opportunities. Several rental businesses are popping up as kayak is becomes increasingly popular. We recommend our partner
Howling Wolfe Canoe & Kayak rentals for the Batavia to Aurora section. East Dundee also has a
new self-serve kayak kiosk available. New to us is the Midwest Kayak which covers various
sections from Algonquin to St. Charles. The St. Charles Park District has paddle boat option.
Ferson Bluffs is a popular dog swimming location.
It’s a Watershed
Granted that on hot days, the cool spring fed creeks are refreshing, but our watershed has a wealth of public terrestrial places to wander and be wowed by the many natural wonders in the rock, plant and animal worlds. Go take a hike.
Bring a Bag
Everywhere that people go, seems to have a trail of litter. Consider bringing a small bag to fill with trash that you encounter along your path. Every litter bit hurts, so every little bit of cleanup helps. We have found that litter collection can be an inspiration for others.
It’s Our Fox River Day (IOFRD)
Speaking of litter, what was born as a 200-mile-long cleanup has become the largest watershed-wide event. Still a day of cleanups, it also features many creative and unique experiences including prayer, yoga, art making, demonstrations, and much more. Check out the map on our website that depicts the growing number of events. Friends of the Fox River was founded to be a collective voice for river protection and restoration. IOFRD is a significant demonstration of that growing force. Consider sharing your particular passion or connection with the watershed with others. Are you a birder, trail runner, cyclist, angler, star gazer, natural plant gardener, journaler, chess player, or the member of an organization?
Sign-up to host an event and grow your group while spreading some joy for our watershed.
FOTFR is building a watershed community of caretakers. This month, beat the heat – Get out and nurture your Fox River relationship. We care for who/what we love.
