Get behind-the-scenes look at Illinois’ first freshwater mussel conservation center
Take an exclusive tour of the Urban Stream Research Center on Jan. 17
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is offering rare behind-the-scenes tours of its Urban Stream Research Center at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville on Saturday, Jan. 17, giving visitors an up-close look at how ecologists are restoring the region’s aquatic ecosystems.
The Urban Stream Research Center — Illinois’ first facility dedicated to raising freshwater mussels and federally endangered Hine’s emerald dragonflies — is normally closed to the public. The special tours provide a unique opportunity to see how District staff propagate and care for mussels, crayfish, insects, and fish that support healthier local waterways.
Tours run every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It is $5 per person. The program is open to all ages; those under age 18 must attend with an adult. Register online at dupageforest.org, or call (630) 933-7248.
During the guided tour, environmental interpreters will lead visitors through the center’s lab and conservation systems while highlighting the district’s broader efforts to restore aquatic habitats.
Participants will learn why freshwater mussels — among the most imperiled animal groups in the United States — are vital for filtering water and maintaining stream health.
Since the district’s first successful release in 2016, staff have propagated and released 38,127 mussels of eight species in partnership with six other organizations.
The mussels have been released throughout four watersheds in northeastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana, helping bolster declining populations and improve water quality.
Opened in 2012 and funded through a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grant in partnership with DuPage County Stormwater Management, the Urban Stream Research Center remains a cornerstone of the district’s commitment to improving regional water quality and aquatic biodiversity.
The district manages more than 1,000 acres of aquatic habitats, including lakes, wetlands, streams, and rivers.
About the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County improves the quality of life for all DuPage County residents. Its 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways contribute to cleaner air and water, help with flood control, create vital habitats for wildlife, and provide safe spaces where people can boost their physical and mental health. More than 5.5 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 175 miles of trails, seven education centers, and scores of programs each year.
For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the district’s e-newsletter and Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok pages.