Water Chemistry Tour of Crooked Creek - CANCELLED

Sept. 18, 11am-3pm (tour is 11am- noon, chemistry testing until 3pm)
Water Chemistry Tour of Crooked Creek
40 people max, Registration required
Program is designed for 12 years of age and older
Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

As part of our Inside, Out & About initiative, please join Friends’ staff for a short tour from 11am to 12 noon of the restoration work done at Crooked Creek.  This will be followed by optional water chemistry monitoring. The testing is done to evaluate the improvements to the water quality on site and is a terrific opportunity to learn from Friends staff about the importance of regular evaluation.

Crooked Creek is a tributary to the Chicago River system. It flows into the Saganashkee Slough which then drains into the Cal-Sag Channel. It is the home to many fish species including largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed. Friends of the Chicago River has been engaged in a 396-acre restoration project to enhance habitat in the Crooked Creek watershed. The project has been implemented in partnership with the Forest Preserves of Cook County.

This large-scale land restoration project will improve habitat through invasive species control. Target species for removal include non-native honeysuckle, barberry, and multiflora rose. With the subsequent return of native plant species, comes improved habitat and stormwater infiltration. By slowing rainwater into the creek it will also improve adjacent habitat for the endangered Hine's emerald dragonfly by limiting water level fluctuations during flash storm events.