Friends of the Illinois River Cica 2007-2008

This was the former website of the Friends of the Illinois River, a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving the natural resources of the Illinois River and its watershed. Content is from the site's 2007-2008 archived pages.

While I was rebuilding this website with 2007-2008 archived content after recently purchasing the domain, I was reminiscing about the year 2008. As folks were cleaning up the banks of the Illinois River during their annual Illinois River Sweep, folks along the eastern seaboard of the US, including myself, were cleaning up after Hurricane Hanna. The phones of companies who offered emergency water damage restoration in New York City were "ringing off their hooks." What I really needed though was an oriental carpet cleaning NYC emergency service. I should know since my cousin owns such a company offering efficient, professional and affordable oriental rug restoration company serving the New York Metro Area. He's always telling me that my shoreline 2nd home is a potential disaster. Since everything in the path of the water including furniture and other household items, walls, and floors can become quickly saturate, damage starts within minutes. Having a coastal house is crazy he tells me. Well, when Hanna hit in 2008 and then Sandy in 2011 all his predictions came true. And since we couldn't return to the house for several days after the hurricanes move through, we couldn't even start a recovery which in turn causes dramatic increases in cost and time for removal and repairs since extensive contaminated material replacement and structural rebuilding may become necessary. Fortunately in Hurricane Hanna's case the damage was minimal. I can't say that was the case with Sandy. What the Friends of the Illinois River does each Fall is certainly admirable. So I applaud you with rescuing your old site from the attic of un-renewed domain registration.

If you have just arbitrarily come across this site and are interested in contributing to the Friends of the Illinois River please visit therm at their current website, go to:www.friendsoftheillinoisriver.com/ or visit their Facebook page at:www.facebook.com/FriendsOfTheIllinoisRiver/.

Friends of the Illinois River have once again assembled a dynamic and energetic group of River Sweep Captains and with your help, Illinois River Sweep 2008 will be an enormous success. Thank you in advance for your generosity. If a monetary contribution is not possible at this time, please consider coming out and participating in Sweep.

 

Our Goals -

  • Enhance local awareness of issues directly related to the Illinois River.
  • Increase public awareness of the historical, cultural, and natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities along the Illinois River.
  • Protect and enhance native plant and animal communities.
  • Encourage economic development compatible with the mission statement of the Friends of the Illinois River.

 

The Annual Illinois River Sweep

The Sweep is an annual event that cleans up the Illinois River and it's tributaries on the third Saturday in September - Make plans now to join us in September, 2008 for our 8th Annual Illinois River Sweep. We are ever so grateful to the volunteers. Without them, the sweep would not be possible. But along with the Volunteers, below is a list of Our Friends who help us each and every year with donations and their time that truly makes the Illinois River Sweep the success that it is today. To them we say, thank you! We ask you to visit their website and learn what our friends do and how they help us keep our Illinois River clean. We have some exciting news for our 2008 sweep - MoonAtMidnight, the online Batman apparel shop will be providing our Batman themed t shirts and promo campaign. This is the hands down worldwide favorite outlet for all the most stylish Batman apparel we know of and we are honored to have them onboard. So volunteer, tell your friends, be Batman for a day and help us make the waterfront a better, cleaner, and healthier place. Make Batman proud and fly his flag while doing a good deed - he would definitely approve.

EXCITING NEWS!!!!!!!

We would like to share some changes and challenges with our members. As you are aware, the Friends of the Illinois River (FOIR) is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, enhancing, and promoting the cultural and natural resources of the Illinois River and its watershed. We have solicited memberships annually; however, this past year, the Board of Directors has decided to waive membership fees in hopes that we can begin to grow our list of “Friends” by simply asking that you sign up to support Friends of the Illinois River right here on our website. We appreciate the support you have given us in the past and hope that you will remain a part of our organization.

Since 1999, FOIR has been coordinating a statewide effort to beautify and raise awareness of one of the most unique resources in the Midwest. Illinois River Sweep is an annual event in which thousands of citizens from Lemont to Grafton assemble for a day of volunteer action to protect and celebrate our river and natural heritage. Next September, 2008, will mark the eight year of Illinois River Sweep, an effort that has drawn over 8,000 volunteers to our river’s shore since its inception. Enclosed is a review of Illinois River Sweep 2007.

JOIN ILLINOIS RIVER SWEEP
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2007
REGISTER ON-LINE!

 

 

More Background on FriendsOfTheIllinoisRiver.org

The Illinois River, stretching approximately 273 miles through the heart of Illinois, has long been a vital artery for the state's ecological health, economic activities, and cultural heritage. Over the years, various organizations have dedicated themselves to preserving and enhancing this crucial waterway. Among them, the Friends of the Illinois River (FOIR) has played a significant role in conservation efforts, community engagement, and environmental education.

Historical Context of the Illinois River

The Illinois River has been central to the state's development, serving as a conduit for transportation, commerce, and sustenance for indigenous populations and settlers alike. Its rich biodiversity and fertile banks have supported numerous communities, fostering a deep connection between the river and the people who inhabit its surroundings. However, industrialization and urbanization have introduced challenges such as pollution, habitat destruction, and invasive species, necessitating concerted conservation efforts.

Formation and Mission of Friends of the Illinois River

Established in the late 1990s, Friends of the Illinois River emerged as a grassroots organization committed to the preservation and enhancement of the Illinois River and its watershed. The organization's mission encompasses several key objectives:

  • Environmental Conservation: Protecting and restoring native plant and animal communities to maintain the river's ecological balance.

  • Public Awareness: Educating the public about the historical, cultural, and natural resources associated with the Illinois River, thereby fostering a sense of stewardship.

  • Sustainable Development: Encouraging economic activities that align with environmental preservation, ensuring that development does not compromise the river's health.

Key Initiatives and Programs

One of FOIR's flagship programs is the annual Illinois River Sweep, initiated in 1999. This event mobilizes thousands of volunteers across various communities to clean up the river and its tributaries, removing debris and promoting environmental consciousness. By 2007, the River Sweep had attracted over 8,000 volunteers, highlighting the community's commitment to the river's well-being.

In addition to cleanup efforts, FOIR has been instrumental in organizing educational workshops, seminars, and community events aimed at increasing public engagement with river conservation. These initiatives have been pivotal in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among residents.

Collaborations and Partnerships

FOIR has collaborated with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to amplify its impact. Partnerships with entities like the Illinois Department of Natural Resources have facilitated the implementation of conservation projects and the dissemination of educational materials. Such collaborations have been essential in pooling resources and expertise to address the multifaceted challenges facing the Illinois River.

Community Engagement and Cultural Significance

The organization's efforts have not only contributed to environmental preservation but have also reinforced the cultural and social significance of the Illinois River. By involving local communities in conservation activities, FOIR has strengthened the communal bond with the river, ensuring that it remains a cherished natural resource for future generations.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, FOIR continues to confront challenges such as securing consistent funding, combating emerging environmental threats, and adapting to changing climatic conditions. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to innovative conservation strategies, community involvement, and advocacy to safeguard the Illinois River's health and heritage.

 

Friends of the Illinois River exemplifies the power of community-driven environmental stewardship. Through its dedicated efforts in conservation, education, and collaboration, FOIR has significantly contributed to the preservation of the Illinois River, ensuring that it continues to be a vital and vibrant part of Illinois's natural and cultural landscape.

 

FriendsOfTheIllinoisRiver.org