Being a person who spends a lot of time outdoors in the woods and fields of the Fox River valley and on the waters of the Fox River itself, I have been privileged to see a lot of amazing wildlife throughout the course of my life. Some of the most thrilling wildlife experiences I have … Read more
Alternative Facts We are in an era of emotional opinions about controversial issues that are often fueled by fear and misinformation. It is important to base our opinions upon reality. So where do we go to gather creditable information? One reliable source can be from historical records. Another can be through analyzing scientifically-generated data. In … Read more
Join Friends of the Fox River and over 1000 Friends on September 17, 2022 for the largest watershed-wide celebration of the year! Thinking Like a Watershed To protect and restore a watershed, we must think like a watershed. It’s Our Fox River Day (IOFRD) is a public demonstration of that concept. Managing a resource that … Read more
With the on-going mission to build a watershed of caretakers, Friends of the Fox River (FOTFR) continues to grow their organization and influence on protecting water quality in many ways. To do that takes many different strategies and always trying new things. August has been a very busy month, much of which was new to … Read more
Maybe you have heard of the practice that coal miners used in the pre-modern technology “old days” of mining; they took a canary in a cage with them into the underground mine to detect the presence of deadly gases that would pose a mortal threat to the miners. The theory was that the canary, more … Read more
Three events kept us hopping and there’s more to come in August! Rusty RodeoSaturday 8/6 was the Fox River Rusty Rodeo. Friends of the Fox River (FOTFR) volunteers joined staff from our partners Kane County Forest Preserve District, Fox Valley Park District, St. Charles Park District, Center for Great Lakes Literacy, and Sea Grant Illinois-Indiana … Read more
There is a saying that I have lived by, “Work hard, play hard.” My life’s path has given me the opportunity to follow my passion and blend personal and professional pursuits. Our Friendsof the Fox River (FOTFR) team works hard at building a watershed of caretakers in many ways. It is that time of year to … Read more
This week 15,000 years the Fox River formed as the last glacier melted. It shaped the physical landscape and gave this region unique habitats that include: all the deep lakes in Illinois, fens, bogs, streams, abundant springs, moraines, kames, several types of prairies and forests. Those habitats support a variety of plants and animals. The … Read more
Think Picnic The parks are a great playground. Consider challenging yourself to pack a picnic experience with minimal waste. Be creative and find alternatives for disposable table coverings, utensils, plastic cups and even paper products like napkins. Reduce is the first and most important waste reduction strategy. Exit your site proud that you didn’t leave … Read more
As much of the United States human population marks July 4th as a day to celebrate, it is a good time to reflect upon what is independence and what is freedom. Though freedom by definition implies being able to do something without outside control, it is often seen as an achievement. For my dog partner, … Read more
