Special, virtual events - February through April - will integrate modern and indigenous Deep Listening activities with Native conservation practices, music-making, and storytelling/story gathering workshops. The special events are in partnership with the Fifth House Ensemble and the American Indian Center. The events culminate in a performance of Sounds of the Chicago River on May 30.

Passage of the omnibus spending bill by Congress in January authorized plans for $11.6 million in restoration work for the South Fork of the South Branch of the Chicago River, widely known as Bubbly Creek. However, negotiations involving environmental liability protections surrounding the restoration plans preclude final funding “appropriations” for the work this year.

Friends of the Chicago River supports the proposed Native Plants Gardens Registry Ordinance in Chicago. Learn more about the ordinance and how to voice your support.

The next phase of a 396 acre restoration project to enhance habitat in the Crooked Creek watershed has kicked off in partnership with the Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC).

Friends of the Chicago River welcomes a new statewide stewardship group devoted to Illinois Nature Preserves, Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves.

Learn more about groundbreaking research and approaches to managing stormwater using nature-based solutions on Friends’ YouTube Channel where the presentations of the featured speakers at our 2020 Chicago River Summit are posted.

From the barred owl to the tufted titmouse, the Chicago River system is home to numerous birds to spot during the winter months. Birders in the Chicago River system can also help collect important data about bird species in the watershed using apps and other reporting tools.

Reports of wildlife sightings have grown as people who used to be in the gym, office, or elsewhere find themselves along the river. Sightings of beaver are making headlines.

There are at least three resolutions we could all make in 2021 that would have a direct, positive effect on the Chicago River system: pick up the litter, conserve individual water use, and reduce consumption of single-use plastics.

While this past year has been turbulent, Friends of the Chicago River has much to celebrate over the past 12 months.