Transforming the Chicago–Calumet River System Since 1979

Dam Removal at Mill Creek in 2019

Friends of the Chicago River is dedicated to protecting and restoring the Chicago-Calumet River system. Along with policy leadership and community outreach and education, we have decades of experience carrying out on-the-ground ecological restoration projects. From large-scale, coordinated efforts spanning hundreds of total acres to neighborhood-scale projects, we are leading the way to toward a healthier river and watershed for people, water, and wildlife. 

Supporting a Thriving Watershed

The Chicago-Calumet River system is one of the region’s most important natural, recreational, cultural, and economic assets. It supports nearly 80 species of fish, the critical Mississippi River flyway where migrating birds travel annually, along with an incredible diversity of other wildlife. Now with over 300 miles of river-edge trail, increasing public access, and a flourishing water-based economy, people are enjoying greater recreational opportunities on and off the water.

Where Do We Work?

Our restoration projects span the watershed (Updated map coming soon) and reaches parts of Cook, Lake, DuPage, and Will counties. Within this landscape, we work to restore wetland, prairie, and instream habitats. We work alongside the Chicago Park District, Forest Preserves of Cook County, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, community groups, nonprofits, and many other partners to advance river restoration across the region.

What Do We Do?

Large-Scale Restoration

Friends collaborates with landowners like the Forest Preserves of Cook County to seek and receive large grants to remove invasive plants like buckthorn and honeysuckle, reconstruct eroded banks, and grow native plants. These activities improve biodiversity, reduce localized flooding, and support a healthy and resilient ecosystem.

In an open woodland system, dense invasive shrubs disrupt ecosystem functions.

Dam Removal

Dams prevent fish and other aquatic life from moving freely. Movement between water bodies is essential for migration and even certain life stages. Dam removals restore flow, improve habitat, and reconnect the river system. Rivers throughout the nation and world are taking on this challenge by removing dams, and Friends is a leading voice advocating for dam removal in the Chicago-Calumet River system.

Page with current projects coming soon!

Wade into some highlights across more than 45 years of Friends of the Chicago River!