Fox River group to discuss film 'DamNation'
The Fox River Ecosystem Partnership will host its bimonthly FREP Noon Network from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the council chambers of the Batavia city hall, 100 N. Island Ave. The public is welcome to attend this free program; reservations are not required. It has partnered with The Conservation Foundation, Sierra Club Chapter Water Sentinels, and Friends of the Fox River to obtain the film "DamNation" and make it available for screenings and educational programs in the Fox River watershed.
The documentary "DamNation" provides a history of dams in the United States and explores the possibilities and effects of dams and dam removal. It is a powerful film odyssey across America exploring the sea change in our national attitude from pride in big dams as engineering wonders to the growing awareness that our own future is bound to the life and health of our rivers.
The Fox River in Illinois was historically altered by 15 dams dating back to the 1850s. Many of these dams have fallen into disrepair and are no longer used for their original industrial purpose. Two of the dams on the Fox River have been removed, and others are being examined for removal or modification to increase public safety and improve the health of the river. As communities along the Fox River consider the future of their dams, a viewing of this documentary can stimulate discussion and promote awareness of how the river can continue to be utilized, with or without dams. While removal of all dams is unlikely, the long-term future of each dam needs to be carefully considered.
After the screening, there will be a discussion period for attendees to ask questions and present ideas and opinions on how the river can be managed to meet the needs of its inhabitants and users alike. Following the discussion, attendees are invited to take a short walk back to the north Batavia dam, to see view and talk about the failing dam structure.
The Fox River Ecosystem Partnership was established in 1997 representing the entire Fox River Watershed in Illinois, covering 1,720 square miles situated within the counties of Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, LaSalle, Lee, McHenry and Will. Membership includes individuals, governments, organizations and businesses that meet regularly "to promote, preserve, protect and enhance the natural, cultural, economic and recreational resources of Illinois' Fox River and its watershed."
For information about this program and the Fox River Ecosystem Partnership, visit foxriverecosystem.org.