Join us in the hunt for pregnant freshwater mussels in the North Branch of the Chicago River!
The baby mussels will be raised in safety at the DuPage County Urban Stream Center before coming to live at the Wild Mile, where they will help clean and complete our river ecosystem. It's a fun way to support local mussel populations, research, and water quality — all while experiencing the Chicago River is way unlike any other.
All Rangers are welcome to join! We’ll provide the waders and equipment; all you need to do is dress warmly (it's wise to bring a full extra change of clothes just in case you get wet). Also, bring a lacrosse stick if you happen to have one (the best tool for scoping 'em up).
Hunting site will vary based on the day, but expect work in the Northwest suburbs (i.e. Skokie). Carpool from the UR office will be an available option. Those who sign up will receive an email detailing the exact meeting location.
NOTE: THIS IS A SUCESS AND WEATHER DEPENDENT ACTIVITY!
We are only allowed to take up to 5 pregnant females per season. It's no guarantee that we'll find them all soon (if at all), but know that later shifts will be canceled if all five are found.
Hunting is also weather dependent. If the water level is too high we will have to cancel/reschedule a shift.
