At Paddle and Plants, volunteers install aquatic plants along the North Shore Channel and the Little Calumet River. Locally grown lizard’s tail, water willow and other aquatic plants are planted along the river's edge to improve in-stream habitat for fish, turtles, pollinators and other wildlife. As the plants expand, they reduce of bank erosion, improve water quality and make the waterways more beautiful too.

Join us for this is a unique opportunity to wear waders, head out in canoes, and install these plants. Check our Events page for summer volunteer opportunities. Learn more about this and other wildlife habitat programs here. 

Click below to watch a segment from WGN News, "Chicago River revival: Paddle and Plant's mission to restore the banks" featuring the program.

Friends is grateful to the many partners like the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Shedd Aquarium and other local community groups whose support has strengthened our practical knowledge and volunteer capacity over the years.