A publication of River Action, Inc. Eddy Magazine is created to inform the people of the Quad City area about the great work being done to save and improve our river heritage.
Volume 15, Issue 1 | February, March, April 2025
A PUBLICATION OF RIVER ACTION, INC. www.riveraction.org
Connecting people to the river
Prairie: Our Resi ient Ec system
INSIDE: :: New Arsenal Bike Path :: Fish & Fire Intiative :: Climate Change & the QCs :: eddy Calendar :: and more...
EDDY SCHOLARSHIP
Now Accepting Eddy Scholarship Applications
February, March, April 2025 Volume 15, Issue 1 _______ KATHY WINE, Publisher / Executive Director JEFF V AN ECHAUTE, pi design, inc. / Editor & Design BETH CLARK, Milepost Ventures, LLC. / Ad Sales APRIL KLECKNER, Calendar Editor Contributing Writers ASHLEY HAMERLINCK, Program Manager KRISTEN BERGREN, Sierra Club - Eagle View Group GRETA SOLBRIG, Green Iowa AmeriCorps JAMES LASHER, Green Iowa AmeriCorps JULIA V AN HOUTEN, Green Iowa AmeriCorps Contributing Photographers JEFF V AN ECHAUTE Ingimage.com, Stock Photography Printing Services SUTHERLAND PRINTING © eddy Magazine and River Action, Inc., all rights reserved, 2025. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without express, written permission, is prohibited. The views expressed herein, whether expressed as fact, ction, opinion, ad vice or otherwise are those of the author and do not necessarily re ect those of the ownership or management of this magazine. This magazine is sold with the understanding that neither it, nor River Action, Inc., its owners or managers, are engaged in rendering legal, accounting, tax, medical, technical, or any other advice, professional or otherwise. The publication of any advertisement does not re ect the endorsement of any products or services by the ownership or management of this magazine unless it is speci cally stated in such advertisement and there is written approval for such endorsement. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material to eddy Magazine for consideration should not send originals. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other submitted materials must be accompanied by a self addressed, postage paid envelope in return of materials is requested. Return of materials is not guaranteed. eddy Magazine is published quarterly by River Action, Inc., 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 and is direct mailed to approximately 6,400 area homes and businesses. eddy Magazine Published by River Action, Inc. 822 E. River Drive Davenport, IA 52803 563-322-2969 www.riveraction.org To Advertise: Contact 563-322-2969 For rates, ad dimensions, and deadline information, email: akleckner@riveraction.org To Subscribe or become a member of River Action: call 563-322-2969 or visit www.riveraction.org
— by Ashley Hamerlinck
S ince 2019, River Action has proudly o ered three $1,000 Eddy Scholarships annually in conjunction with its celebrated Eddy Awards. These scholarships recognize students who demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship and active community involvement. This year, the Eddy Scholarships are generously funded by BITCO Insurance Companies. The term “Eddy” represents bold and courageous e orts that “go against the current” to achieve meaningful impacts on our shared riverways and river communities. The Eddy Scholarships were established to honor students who embody the spirit of the Eddy Awards. Eligible students must be majoring or minoring in an environment-related eld at a college or university, or current high school seniors planning to focus on an environment-related eld in their future studies. Three $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to applicants based on their character, academic achievements, school and community involvement, and environmental career aspirations. Key Details: • Application Deadline: March 21, 2025 • Preference will be given to students attending or planning to attend a college or university in the Quad Cities area. • Finalists will be interviewed as part of the selection process. • Scholarships will be awarded at River Action’s Fish & Fire dinner on May 1, 2025.
Scholarship recipient, Amanda Nelson (right), accepts her award at last year’s Fish & Fire.
Two of last year’s recipients, Gloria Rheingans and Gracie Benstine with Kathy Wine.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 2 Eddy Scholarship Applications Due! by Ashley Hamerlinck 3 Publisher’s Letter by Kathy Wine 4 Getting Back to Our Roots by Greta Solbrig 6 Climate Change and the Quad Citiess by Julia VanHouten 7 Environmental Book Club Calendar 8 River Action Environmental Film Series by Kristen Bergren 9 2025 River Action Event Schedule 10 Explore the River Series by Ashley Hamerlinck 11 Eddy Calendar: February, March, April
Our Mission: River Action strives to foster the environmental, economic, and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront in the Quad City region.
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Awesome Opportunities to Strengthen our Bike Network
A new quarter-mile bike/pedestrian trail has been installed along Rodman Avenue on Arsenal Island from East Street to Chamberlain Drive in an effort to increase biking on the Island.
— by Kathy Wine
As I write, we are waiting for the results of a study by the coalition to determine the statewide economic impact of cycling and trails in Iowa. The original study, conducted in 2012, found it to be around $364.8 million in direct and indirect economic impacts. The ndings are scheduled to be announced at the January 25th meeting of the
stores, restaurants and Mercado on 5th when the trail is installed. On the I-80 Bridge, there has been concurrence amongst the Iowa and Illinois DOTs, as well as the Federal Highway Administration, to fund and construct an approximate 10 X 30-foot overlook beyond the 14-foot multiuse path along the westbound bridge. In addition, the City of LeClaire and Rock Island County have agreed to maintain such an overlook. With it added to the design, the project moves to Phase II, Final Design and Land Acquisition. This I-80 bridge connection is an amazing opportunity to strengthen our bike network. Now we need serious discussion of the MRT extension south and north of the proposed bridge. Just nished, there is now an o -road trail along Rodman Avenue on Arsenal Island thanks to the vision of the Garrison Commander Joe Parker. It is 6-foot wide and a quarter-mile long increasing connectivity and encouraging biking on the Island (see photo above). Looking ahead, 2025 holds fantastic possibilities for us as we prepare to ll in gaps and strengthen our trail network.
T he Quad Cities has opportunities to connect from the riverway trails to the Downtown YMCA, Floreciente Neighborhood, and to the I-80 Bridge. The new links will strengthen connections
Kathy Wine
between communities, tie together our area bike trails network, boost tourism and provide healthy outdoor recreation. When it comes to new trail projects, River Action has always been focused on locations in which we can create connections. “A trail is more than just the sum of its parts,” says Luke Ho man, executive director of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. “It is something that provides quality of life and a legacy for future generations.” Bike trails, and recreation trails are connectors that connect people to nature, they connect communities, they connect trails to each other. Connected communities are vibrant communities. Cyclists coming to our communities is a great way to stimulate our local economy.
coalition in Des Moines. They anticipate today’s impact to be much, much more. Here, we continue fundraising and working with the City of Davenport to complete the Firsts Bridge project. Your support has been the driving force behind our mission to create safer, healthier routes for everyone, and we’ve made signi cant strides in fundraising toward a safer crossing of US 67 and the CP rail line to connect with the riverfront trail. Also, the proposed Floreciente Trail will branch o of the MRT at 1st Avenue and Sylvan Island. It will go one-half mile north along 46th St/1st St to 4th Avenue in Moline, and hopefully, someday, connect to Augustana College. People on the trail are more likely to stop and visit Floreciente
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FISH & FIRE
Ge ing Back to Our Rts: A FISH AND FIRE INITIATIVE Please join River Action in getting back to our roots and building a more resilient community! — by Greta Solbrig, Green Iowa AmeriCorps E ach year, in observance of Earth Day,
this rich history and hopeful future in mind, the initiative aims to enhance and restore a portion of the Quad Cities’ 66 designated “Wild Places.”The listed public places include beloved forest preserves, local parks, and landscapes with the capacity to support prairie habitat. Long term, enhancing these regions will bene t both the ecosystem and its recreational observers. Currently, River Action is contacting sponsors and potential restoration sites to secure the funding and resources necessary for up to 20 projects. Once the fundraising e ort is complete, each site will receive its own specialized seed mix, tailored to location, sun exposure, and soil type.
The goal is to plant the native species that will most adequately address the concerns of each site. Soil stabilization, pollinator attraction, and habitat creation are among the many bene ts these ecosystems provide. Perhaps one of the most important functions of restored prairie habitat is to serve as a nature-based ood solution. The Quad Cities area has become increasingly familiar with frequent and severe ooding, incurring considerable ecological and nancial loss. By installing prairie natives with extensive root networks, rainfall can be better stored, ltered, and used to recharge our aquifers.
River Action hosts the “Fish and Fire Friendraiser,” a dinner that brings together community members from across the Quad Cities to support local conservation initiatives. Last year, River Action launched “Roll Out the Barrels,” which successfully distributed 400 rain barrels throughout the community. Building on the success of this accomplishment, River Action is announcing its newest project: “Getting Back to Our Roots.” “Getting Back to Our Roots” acknowledges that, to move forward, we must look back on the diversity that once ourished in Midwestern prairies. Keeping
Tallgrass prairie at the Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, where another restoration project will take place through the Getting Back to Our Roots Initiative.
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FISH & FIRE
Prairie restoration underway at Sunderbruch Park in Davenport.
So far, 17 popular sites have joined the initiative, including Wild Cat Den, Sylvan Slough, and Duck Creek Park. Sites such as these are paramount to educating the public about the importance of our native species, providing optimal exposure to locals and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. By restoring
these regions, community members can better witness how biodiversity makes an ecosystem thrive; a striking sight to behold when the native ora is in bloom. If you have a wild place in mind, or are interested in donating to the cause, contact Kathy Wine at kwine@riveraction.org.
There are a variety of sponsorship levels o ered, each providing distinct recognition at the site of your choice. To view a comprehensive list of Quad City Wild Places, head to the River Action website at riveraction.org.
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CLIMATE CHANGE
What does Climate Change mean for the QC? — by Julia VanHouten
Despite talks of renewable energy, purchases of electric vehicles, and reducing our personal carbon footprints, our industries are emitting greenhouse gases at a rate that far exceeds our goal to stay under 1.5 °C of warming. This, coupled with the fact our new administration is unlikely to make strides to prevent the continuation of global warming, we must be equipped with the knowledge of the changes coming to our communities so we may be better prepared and more resilient. This is what our Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance seeks to do. I n the last meeting, held at the Riverdale City Hall in Iowa on November 21, 2024, speaker Ray Wolf, a local retired meteorologist and climatologist, discussed current trends in precipitation and trends to be expected. He also asked a few compelling questions like “how does climate change a ect the frequency and intensity of a given hazard?”The short answer is that warmer air can hold more water. Below is a graph depicting the changing precipitation of the 20th century compared to today created by NOAA.
According to NOAA, the climate has warmed by approximately 1-degree Celsius since 1900 and we are already seeing disastrous weather events and record temperatures happening every year. As the climate continues to warm, weather events are going to increase in intensity and frequency.
The graph above shows that catastrophic weather events that cause over a billion dollars’ worth of damage are increasing in frequency as compared to earlier years. This is in part why insurance rates are going up. Another question Ray Wolf asked is: To what degree did a warmer and wetter climate contribute to a given disaster? For example, Hurricane Helene still would have happened regardless of climate change; however, it’s the e ects of climate change that made Helene so intense and destructive.
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BOOK CLUB DATES
The above graph shows the upward trend of money spent on ood damage. The gray line depicts the cumulative amount spent on historical inland ood damage, while the green line is the estimation due to precipitation change. This tells us that we can expect our oods (much like our weather) to be more intense and damaging. The nal graph below depicts the projected changes in cumulative seasonal and annual runo for 2036-2065 compared to 1991-2020. Regarding ooding, the seasonal section shows our winters and springs are going to have a
signi cant increase in runo which will likely cause the river to ood at higher levels and with greater frequency. While we may be slated to receive more precipitation, that doesn’t mean we won’t still struggle with drought. Another point Ray Wolf made was what he called the “Hydro-Illogical Cycle” which occurs when there is a drought. The second stage is awareness as many people begin to take note. The third stage addresses the public’s concern as a couple
weeks have passed without rain. The fourth stage occurs after several weeks without rain brings panic. Finally, the rain comes in the fth stage and we fall into apathy. To break this cycle, it helps to be prepared to deal with droughts and one easy way to do that is the use of rain barrels which can be bought at River Action for $100-$115 depending on the inclusion of a diverter. Rain barrels are just one of many ways we can better equip our community to be more resilient in the face of these changes. Another way is to increase water in ltration through establishing native prairies. Prairie plants have very deep roots systems that can absorb more water and allow for excess to be transferred deep into the ground, which recharges groundwater and can signi cantly reduce the risk of ooding. Davenport’s Native Roots program allows landowners to establish native prairies without penalty from the city for having an overgrown or unkempt lawn. Prairies also decrease runo which can improve the water quality in our local streams and rivers. They counter habitat loss which increases our ecological diversity and adds vitality to our gardens. All of this helps to improve resilience to weather and climate extremes. A ood preparation public workshop will take place on March 1st, 2025 at Modern Woodmen Park to provide more information. It will run from 10am-2pm and have o cials from each of the Quad Cities present to engage and answer questions.
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FILM SERIES
Giants Rising on March 2nd. Both events will provide information and inspiration for attendees to take positive, sustainability actions in their daily lives. To sum it up, come early on movie day to attend the fairs and support the students’ e orts to help care for our planet…our home! QCEFS Movies + Speakers + Student Fairs = Actions! RIVER ACTION ENVIRONMENTAL FILM SERIES Re ection Speaker Giants Rising March 2
I n the QCEFS line up of inspiring movies and speakers, we have added two environmental student fairs. Augustana College’s student Sierra Club has planned a Sustainability Lifestyle Fair in the Figge lobby before the movie The Shitthropocene on February 16th. St. Ambrose Green Life has planned a fair to share the A.W.E. of the Redwoods through art, writing and ecology in the Galvin Fine Arts Center lobby before — by Kristen Bergren
Lisa Landers/Filmmaker and Producer Lisa has been creating award-winning content for television networks and museums such as National Geographic, the Smithsonian Channel, PBS/KQED, the American Museum of Natural History, the National Building Museum, CA State Parks, and Mexico City’s Papalote Museo del Niño. Covering a wide range of subjects, she’s most passionate about sharing stories that change the way we see the world — and ourselves. A.W.E. Fair (Art, Writing, Ecology) 1:45 – 2:45 Galvin Fine Arts Center Lobby Along with exhibits from students, the community is invited to share their awe of nature by displaying their poetry, art, or photos at this fair. Please drop o at River Action o ce by February 13th. Limited space available.
Sustainability Lifestyle Fair 1:45 – 2:45 Figge Lobby The Shitthropocene February 16 • Habitat for Humanity Restore • Davenport Public Library • Waste Commission of Scott County
• Rescued • Nest Café • Zero Waste Reserve • Fred and Ethels • Mend It! • Dress for Success • St. Mary’s Food Pantry • and more! Re ection Speakers Sustainability Lifestyle Panel
Filmmaker and producer Lisa Landers will be the re ection speaker for Giants Rising on March 2nd.
2025 Environmental Film Series Line-up
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RIVER ACTION
2025 River Action Events
My name is Gianna Zampogna, and I am a junior at Augustana College. I am majoring in environmental studies and geography, with a minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Outside of the classroom, I am a member of Chi Omega Gamma, Augustana Concert Band as an oboe player, Augustana Dance Company, Theatre Department, as well as playing piano. I have just recently started working with River Action as a CRS (Community Rating System) intern to get reductions and improvements on flood insurance for residents of the QC area. Once I am CRS certified, I will be working on getting the different cities under CRS in the QC alliance better rates on their flood insurance, which in turn will help residents of the Quad Cities be better protected against flood damage and hazards.
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SUMMER EVENTS
A POPULAR FATHER’S DAY EVENT IS BACK WITH A TWIST!
Explore the River and Ride the Island
— by Ashley Hamerlinck
T his year, our lineup includes over a dozen exciting Riverine Walks at locations like the Hennepin Canal, Tapestry Farms, and the Constellation Fish Hatchery. Our Channel Cat Talks include a musical cruise with Josh Du ee as he presents “Bix & Friends”, the opportunity to learn about “Channel Cat Operations and Plans” with Jennifer Hirsch, and a chance to hear exciting adventures from the river by Guiness World Record holder, Dana Starkell, as he returns to tell us more stories of his Mississippi River voyage in “Paddle to the Amazon”. The goal of the Explore the River Series is to foster appreciation and awareness of the Mississippi River and its surrounding area. Join us for a summer of discovery and fun! Tickets go on sale April 1st. For more information, visit RiverAction.org/ education, call us at (563) 322-2969, or email ashleyhamerlinck@riveraction.org. River Action’s Explore the River Series is back and better than ever! Join us for family-friendly, entertaining, and educational adventures that explore the Mississippi River from new perspectives.
What: Over two dozen topics and 50+ opportunities to board the Channel Cat Water Taxi or walk along the Mississippi River while learning about the area’s history, geography, environment, and culture. Topics range from monarch butter ies, pelicans, and trees to bridge construction, lock-and-dam functions, and music. When: The Explore the River Series runs four days a week, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Channel Cat Talks are held every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 a.m. and Riverine Walks take place on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. Who: Quad Citizens of all ages will learn from inspiring professionals, including professors, engineers, historians, musicians, authors, and business owners. Where: Channel Cat Talks board the Channel Cat Water Taxi at Riverbend Commons, 2951 E. River Drive, Moline, IL. Riverine Walk meeting locations vary. Cost: Riverine Walks are $10 (free for River Action members), and Channel Cat Talks are $20.
Mark your calendars! River Action is thrilled to announce the return of our popular Father’s Day biking event — with a twist! This year, embark on an exciting new adventure — Ride the Island — as we celebrate Dad and 250 years of the U.S. Army. On Sunday, June 15, explore the rich history of the Rock Island Arsenal as you ride from Davenport to Arsenal Island via the Government Bridge. Visit points of interest and iconic landmarks like the RIA Museum, Colonel Davenport House, Memorial Park, Mississippi River Visitor Center, the original pier of the First Bridge, Quarters One, and historic cemeteries. Make it a full day to remember with food trucks, live music, and fun activities for all ages. Be sure to stay tuned for event details at riveraction.org/rti.
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EDDY CALENDAR
: : : : : : Please check program websites for possible changes in schedule : : : : : :
February
Black Hawk College: CommUniversity Sundays, Feb 2-23, 2-4 pm, Quad-Cities Campus, 6600 34th Ave, Moline Explore new ideas and engage in lively discussions in a series of Sunday afternoon seminars taught by local experts. Choose one class from over 20 topics. $40. bhc.edu
Photo: Je VanEchaute
QC Environmental Film Series: Ripples of Plastic Sun, Feb 2, 3 pm, Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St, Davenport RIPPLES OF PLASTIC is an eye-
We help make you a little more comfortable. • Heating and Cooling • Plumbing and Drain Cleaning • Electrical • 24/7 Service
opening journey through the unseen impacts of plastic pollution in the Great Lakes region. Beyond individual action, the film inspires a collective movement for transformative progress toward a plastic-free future. The short film, Study Aboard, about Living Lands & Waters will also be shown. Reflection Speaker: Chris Langer, Filmmaker & Director. $7 single film/$30 season ticket. riveraction.org or 563-322-2969. Black Hawk State Historic Site: Winter Wellness Sat, Feb 8, 10am-1pm, Watch Tower Lodge, 1800 46th Ave, Rock Island Connect with nature, creativity, and community. Don’t miss this fun-filled day of wellness for all ages! blackhawkpark.org Nahant Marsh: Valentine’s Day Lantern Hike Fri, Feb 14, 4:30-6:30 pm, Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport Self-guided, lantern-lit walk. Follow the lanterns along the trails and warm up by the bonfire. Savory hors d’oeuvres, sweet treats and hot cocoa will be available in the education center. A headlamp or flashlight is recommended. $28 per couple. nahantmarsh.org or 563-336-3370 Black Hawk State Historic Site: Valentine Indoor Music and Moonlight Walk Fri, Feb 14, 6:30-8:30 pm, Watch Tower Lodge, 1800 46th Ave, Rock Island Featuring a stroll outside on a luminary-lit trail. Keep warm by the fire with fresh donuts, juice/hot cocoa/cider, and enjoy music provided by Roger Carlson. Singles, couples, and family friendly. Free. blackhawkpark.org or 309-788-9536
Nahant Marsh: Bird Hike Sat, Feb 15, 9-10 am, Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport Over 200 species of birds are found at Nahant Marsh throughout the year! Participants will see or hear a variety of them on these hikes, which are for everyone- from beginner to expert. Loaner binoculars are available. Free ($5 suggested donation). nahantmarsh. org or 563-336-3370 QC Environmental Film Series: The Shitthropocene Sun, Feb 16, 3 pm, Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St, Davenport THE SHITTHROPOCENE is a journey from the cellular-level origins of our lack of impulse control to the ways our central nervous systems have been hacked in the name of capitalism. Reflection Speaker: Sustainability Lifestyle Panel. $7 single film/$30 season ticket. riveraction.org or 563-322-2969. Quad City Flood Resiliency Alliance Quarterly Meeting Thurs, Feb 20, 3-4:30 PM, Riverdale City Hall, 110 Manor Dr, Riverdale, IA 52722 This coalition meets to share information, promote sound floodplain management practices, save taxpayer dollars and reduce flood insurance costs. Kate Gianinni from the Iowa Flood Center will speak. Free and open to the public.
www.crawford-company.com 309-788-4573
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EDDY CALENDAR
11th Annual Quad Cities Stormwater Conference Thur, Feb 20, 8 am-5 pm, Bally’s Quad Cities Casino & Hotel, 777 Bally Blvd, Rock Island This conference is geared towards contractors dealing with stormwater and erosion control, engineering firms, floodplain managers, MS4 managers and engineering/contractor companies working throughout the Quad Cities. Approved for PDUs/CEUs. $45. rockislandswcd.org Tues-Thur, Feb 25-27, La Crosse Center, La Crosse, WI This 3-day conference includes keynote addresses, symposia, topical oral sessions, a poster session, workshops, roundtables, field trips to area wetlands and networking opportunities. $200 member, $250 guest, $125 student, & Pay-What-You-Can registration. conference.wisconsinwetlands.org River Action’s Environmental Book Club Tues, Feb 25, 7 pm, River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, Davenport Discuss The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Discussions are free and open to the public. riveraction. org or 563-322-2969. Wisconsin Wetlands Association: 2025 Wetland Science Conference March FORC: Smoke Off & Membership Drive Sat, Mar 1, 6-10 pm, Icons Martini, 124 18th St, Rock Island Meetup with new and current FORC members and enjoy the delicious competition of smoked meats. All membership proceeds help fund the QC Trails! qcforc.org
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QC Environmental Film Series: Giants Rising Sun, Mar 2, 3 pm, Galvin Fine Arts Center, St. Ambrose University, 518 W. Locust St, Davenport
GIANTS RISING reveals the secrets and the saga of the coast redwoods-the tallest and among the oldest living beings on Earth. Reflection Speaker: Lisa Landers, Producer & Director. $7 single film/$30 season ticket. riveraction.org or 563-322-2969. Canoecopia Fri-Sun, Mar 7-9, Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI Over 100 presentations and clinics, Canoecopia is an educational event to learn about specific gear for your style of paddling, develop skills to get you where you want to go, and discover some of the many places to paddle. Stop by River Action’s booth! canoecopia.com Nahant Marsh: 6th Annual Oberholtzer Awards Sat, Mar 8, 9am-12pm, The Bend Event Center, 910 Bend Blvd, East Moline Recognize local people who have dedicated their lives (or will dedicate their lives) to protecting our natural world. This event recognizes their hard work and leadership in conservation, brings awareness to the causes they believe in, and inspires others to act. A buffet style brunch will be served accompanied by live music, followed by an awards ceremony, fund- a-cause raffles, and a live auction. $50 member, $60 guest, $350 table of 8. Register at Nahantmarsh.org or 563-336-3379.
QC Environmental Film Series: The Hunt for Planet B Sun, Feb 23, 3 pm, Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St, Davenport
THE HUNT FOR PLANET B follows a pioneering group of scientists on their quest to find another Earth among the stars and takes us behind the scenes with NASA’s high-stakes Webb Space Telescope. Reflection Speaker: Dr. Doug Davidson, BHC Physic Professor. $7 single film/$30 season ticket. riveraction.org or 563-322-2969.
www.pidesigninc.com
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EDDY CALENDAR
JOIN US FOR THESE REGULARLY SCHEDULED EVENTS:
Nahant Marsh: Nature Hike Hikes are year-round on the rst Saturday of the month and gives visitors an opportunity to learn about the diverse ora and fauna of this unique natural area. Free admission. Nahantmarsh.org or 563-336-3370
Nahant Marsh: Breakfast Nature Club Hikes are year-round on the rst Saturday of the month and gives visitors an opportunity to learn about the diverse ora and fauna of this unique natural area. Free admission. Nahantmarsh.org or 563-336-3370
Black Hawk Hiking Club Weekly and bi-weekly hikes at a variety of sites, both public and privately owned, in and around the Quad Cities. Blackhawkhikingclub.org
Green Drinks Meetings are held the rst Thursday of each month at 5 pm on Zoom or in-person. Local gathering of environmental and conservation advocates. pacgqc.org
February 6 - Skip the Plastics Campaign – Nicholina’s Turtle Company March 6 - Rural/Urban Divide on Water Quality – Well Status April 3 – Tour of Living Lands and Waters pallet facility
Quad City Audubon Society: Princeton Marsh Sun, Mar 16, 8 am, Meet at Lock and Dam 14, LeClaire A half day field trip looking for waterfowl en route to Princeton Marsh. Involves some walking. quadcityaudubon.org QCCA Flower and Garden Show Fri-Sun, Mar 21-23, QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island Landscaping • Tools • Displays • Techniques • Accessories • Equipment • Gifts Stop by River Action’s booth! Admission $8 ($6 in advance), $1 child. qccaexpocenter.com/flowerandgardenshow Nahant Marsh: Bird Hike Sat, Mar 22, 9-10 am, Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport Over 200 species of birds are found at Nahant Marsh throughout the year! Participants will see or hear a variety of them on these hikes, which are for everyone- from beginner to expert. Loaner binoculars are available. Free ($5 suggested donation). nahantmarsh. org or 563-336-3370 River Action’s Environmental Book Club Tues, Mar 25, 7 pm, River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, Davenport Discuss On a Farther Shore by William Sauder. Discussions are free and open to the public. riveraction. org or 563-322-2969.
Black Hawk State Historic Site: “Singing Bird and the Importance of Native American Women in Illinois History” Sun, Mar 30, 2-3:30 pm, Watch Tower Lodge, 1800 46th Ave, Rock Island Kim Sigafus, dressed in her native regalia, will bring the audience into Native women’s day-to-day lives and how their role affected the history of Illinois. The audience will be able to hold items Native women would have used, learn Native language and music, and play the drum in this interactive experience. blackhawkpark.org or 309-788-9536
All materials are provided. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike! $40 members, $50 guests.
nahantmarsh.org or 563-336-3370 Black Hawk State Historic Site:
Tour Prehistoric Area and Sauk History Sat, Mar 29, 9:30 am-noon, Watch Tower Lodge, 1800 46th Ave, Rock Island Meet local archaeological expert Ferrel Anderson in the west parking lot for an introduction, followed by a combination walking/self-driving tour. Locate Sauk fields, Black Hawk’s home site, and more. blackhawkpark.org or 309-788-9536
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Nahant Marsh: Spring Wreath Workshop Tue, Mar 25, 5-6:30 pm or Thur, Mar 27, 10-11:30 am, Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to create a variety of beautiful no-sew fabric flowers to decorate a grapevine wreath base. Enhance your design with natural botanicals and other spring-inspired accents.
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EDDY CALENDAR
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April FORC: Sylvan Island Stampede Sat, Apr 5, 7am-4pm, Sylvan Island, 1st Ave 2nd St, Rock Island Visit qcforc.org for more information! Nahant Marsh: Bird Hike Sat, Apr 12, 9-10 am, Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport
Don’t forget to buy a ‘Retain the Rain’ Rain Barrel for April showers!!! Rain Barrels hold 60 gallons and come with a diverter, mosquito netting, and spigot for a hose! $110 includes a standard-sized diverter, or $115 for a large diverter at River Action, 822 E River Drive in Davenport or riveraction.org.
Over 200 species of birds are found at Nahant Marsh throughout the year! Participants will see or hear a variety of them on these hikes, which are for everyone- from beginner to expert. Loaner binoculars are available. Free ($5 suggested donation). nahantmarsh. org or 563-336-3370 Quad City Audubon Society: Cone Marsh Sat, Apr 12, 7 am, Meet at Marquette Street Boat Ramp, Davenport Cone Marsh can be an exceptional wetland complex for waterfowl, shorebirds and more. Full day field trip with an estimated return of 2:00 pm. quadcityaudubon. org or qcaudubon@gmail.com Nahant Marsh: Master Conservationist Program
Earth Day turns 55 years old! Tuesday, April 22
SAVE THE DATE!
Midwest Great Lakes Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration: Annual Conference Fri-Sun, Apr 25-27, Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center, 101 18th Street, Moline This annual conference is in the Quad Cities this year! The theme is “Engaging Agricultural and Rural Communities in Ecological Restoration” and will spotlight the QC. MWGL.SER@gmail.com or 847-812-8528 Black Hawk State Historic Site: 48th Stroll Thru Springtime Sat, Apr 26, 7 am-noon, Black Hawk State Historic Site, 1510 46th Ave, Rock Island Birds are the focus from 7:00-9:00, meet expert leaders by the Black Hawk statue who will help locate resident and migratory birds. Short program and refreshments (including wild violet jelly) from 9:00-10:00. Small groups to observe and identify wildflowers from 10:00-12:00. Free. blackhawkpark.org or 309-788-9536
River Action’s Fish & Fire Fundraiser and Friendraiser Thur, May 1 5:30 pm
Apr 16 through Aug 13, Times vary, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport The intensive blended online and in-person curriculum is developed to equip Iowans interested in natural resource conservation with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions of
The Waterfront Center 2021 State St, Bettendorf
Celebrate River Action’s 41st year! Social hour, silent auction, and cash bar 5:30 pm; Dinner begins at 6:30. Bid on live & silent auction items, enjoy dinner and celebrate those in our community who have gone against the current at the Annual Eddy Awards Presentation. riveraction.org or 563-322-2969
natural resources and to become local leaders and educators. $160 member, $200 guest. Register at nahantmarsh.org or 563-336-3379. River Action’s Environmental Book Club Tues, Apr 22, 7 pm, River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, Davenport Discuss The Forest Lover by Susan Vreeland. Discussions are free and open to the public. riveraction.org or 563- 322-2969.
14 eddy Magazine | www.riveraction.org
For over 40 years River Action has been dedicated to connecting people to the river. Our supporters help us improve the quality of water that ows down the river. They help us instill a love of the river through encouraging participation in many activities that involve the river. Plus, River Action encourages educational programs that help our residents better understand river issues.
February, March, April 2025 | eddy Magazine 15
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