Lectures Bring Attention To Value, Biodiversity Of The Fox River

St. Charles IL

14 January, 2022

6:01 PM

Description

Press release from the St. Charles Park District: Jan. 14, 2022 The Fox River provides communities up and down its banks with a bevy of opportunities for recreation and exploration. The free program series, "A River Flows Through It…Life in the Fox River Valley," will survey several aspects of the mighty river with presentations from two experts within the St. Charles Park District. Programs for all ages will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. at Baker Community Center, 101 S. Second Street downtown St. Charles. On February 9, community members are invited to "I Spy…Fox River Wildlife: Mammals of the Fox River." Presented by Pam Otto, the park district's outreach ambassador, the talk will delve into the furred animals that make their homes along the banks and in the river. The "grail mammal," as Otto terms it, is the river otter, whose numbers have increased in recent years thanks to a successful reintroduction effort by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Decades of habitat loss, poor water quality and trapping had decimated the region's population. Other semi-aquatic creatures Otto will spotlight include the American mink, beaver and muskrat. "Whether you're on foot or paddling, there's all kinds of great treasures out on the Fox River," Otto said. The series continues March 9 with "Fun on the Fox…View from the River" led by Ryan Solomon, ecological restoration supervisor with the park district. An avid fisherman and kayaker, Solomon's presentation will center on the river's thriving fish populations as well as the wildlife that can be spotted along the water's edge. "Fishing is a huge recreational activity on the Fox River. Part of my talk will focus on the importance of a healthy functioning ecosystem and why that matters to the local economy," said Solomon, referencing bait shops and other small businesses that serve anglers in search of flourishing waterways to cast their lines. Solomon will feature prevalent species such as the smallmouth bass, catfish and carp as well as the more elusive muskie. Birds such as the Great blue heron and belted kingfisher will also be highlighted in addition to eagles, which Solomon regularly spots near the water. Following the programs, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a self-directed scavenger hunt, which promotes exploration of the area's open spaces. Community members will be encouraged to look for both commonly sighted species as well as those that keep a low profile while also enjoying the myriad benefits of time spent in nature. "A River Flows Through It…Life in the Fox River Valley" is sponsored by The River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles in partnership with The Conservation Foundation and St. Charles Park District. This press release was produced by the St. Charles Park District. The views expressed here are the author's own.