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 14, Issue 2 | May, June, July 2024
A PUBLICATION OF RIVER ACTION, INC. www.riveraction.org
Connecting people to the river
INSIDE: :: Explore & Seek :: 2024 Eddy Awards :: Floatzilla!
:: Rain Barrel Roll Out Update :: Guide to Summer Education :: eddy Calendar :: and more...
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
What’s missing? — by Kathy Wine I n geological time, River Action’s 40th milestone isn’t more than the blink of an eye, but it can serve as a prompt for self- re ection for us, and we have been doing that.
May, June, July 2024 Volume 14, Issue 2 _______ KATHY WINE, Publisher / Executive Director JEFF V AN ECHAUTE/pi design, inc., Editor & Design BETH CLARK, Ad Sales, Milepost Ventures, LLC. APRIL KLECKNER, Calendar Editor Contributing Writers KRISTEN BERGREN, Sierra Club MICHAEL CORSIGLIA, Program Manager ASHLEY HAMERLINCK, Program Manager KATHY WINE, Executive Director Contributing Photographers
Kathy Wine We will celebrate 40 years at Fish & Fire, May 2nd, recognizing accomplishments, but also asking what’s missing from the Quad Cities riverfront today. I’m reminded of Demolition Davenport’s roast of Dr. Mike Giudici; when he took the mic after the roast, he challenged us to enhance the Quad Cities with what is missing. I am going to use this space for our list. • We need to take the RDG lighting plan o the shelf and light Lock & Dam 15. It will further beautify all riverfront projects. • We can achieve equity and inclusion with a Floreciente Trail to Sylvan Island so residents can move safely over an active rail line and River Drive to Sylvan Island. • We need an out tter on the riverfront, more kayak and canoe launches near our backwaters, and more beaches. I am pleased that this is under study in downtown Moline and on Credit Island in Davenport. • Enroll, now, all area cities, large and small, in FEMA’s Community Rating System to bring down ood insurance costs and make the region eligible for large FEMA grants that mitigate ooding! • We can repair the damage of divisive infrastructure that keeps residents, YMCA members, and visitors from crossing US 67 and an active rail line to River Heritage Park and national trails by building First Bridge. • We need to listen to the voices of our youth regarding climate change. (One opportunity will be our Upper Mississippi River Conference, “Learning From Each Other” at Western Illinois University, October 16-17.) • Build, now, a water taxi service between Rock Island and Davenport with stops at Main Street and Credit Island in Davenport /17th St. and Sunset Park in Rock Island. • Build, at the same time, a bike pedestrian bridge to the stadium at Modern
RYAN BENAC, USACE AMY VANECHAUTE Ingimage.com Stock Photography Printing Services SUTHERLAND PRINTING
© eddy Magazine and River Action, I nc., all rights reserved, 2024. 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 kwine@riveraction.org To Subscribe or become a member of River Action: call 563-322-2969 or visit www.riveraction.org
Woodmen Park. This should go from being under study to in-the-works. • We should invest in riverfront trails in LeClaire, and Princeton to connect to the new I 80 bridge planned trails. Dedicated as we are to improving QC health, safety, and sustainability through beautiful human-scale infrastructure on our shared RiverWay and the Mississippi River that joins us, we aspire to ll in what is missing now for the future!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 3 Explore & Seek Scavenger Hunt by Ashley Hamerlinck 4 2024 Eddy Awards by Kathy Wine 8 Floatzilla! by Michael Corsiglia 9 Rain Barrel Roll Out Results by Michael Corsiglia 10 Explore the River: Summer Education by Ashley Hamerlinck 12 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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EXPLORE & SEEK
— by Ashley Hamerlinck Explore & Seek Participate in the Quad Cities’ largest nature scavenger hunt and solve clues to win prizes!
What: Explore & Seek Scavenger Hunt When: June 1st – 30th Where: Wild Places, Parks, and Conservation Areas near the Mississippi River Cost: Single - $30, Family - $40, Junior - $5
Explorer Kit
T his summer River Action aims to get our community outdoors and connected to nature with its 5th Annual Explore & Seek Scavenger Hunt (formerly known as Ride & Seek). During
the entire month of June, participants can bike, hike, walk, or drive to over 20 Wild Places, parks, and conservation areas to solve clues and win exciting prizes! This year you can register as a Single Explorer, a Family, or as a Junior Explorer! compass carabiner, pen, and coupons to local businesses. Grand Prizes include a YETI Tundra 105 hard cooler, donated by Active Endeavors, and a PlayStation 5! Other
Credit Island Park
Black Hawk State Park
Single and Family registrations will receive a tie-dye drawstring bag, map, notebook,
Devil’s Glen Park
prizes include all-day Ultimate Adventure Passes to The Fun Station and 90-Minute Jump Passes to Elevate Trampoline Park. Visit exploreandseek.org to register. Hurry — the rst 100 to register receive a free scoop of ice cream from Happy Joe’s in LeClaire, IA!
Grand Prizes
May, June, July 2024 | eddy Magazine 3
2024 EDDYAwards When the River Action jury gets together to choose Eddy winners, it has one barometer— tenacity. Who persisted? Who stood up? Who stood out? Who are the heroes taking risks, taking charge, and walking the line between the known and the unknown? Below are the amazing individuals and organizations that have moved against the current, as in an eddy, with a departure from the main current of thought or life to do outstanding work on the Mississippi River. 2024 EDDY AWARDS
— by Kathy Wine
Art: Musco Sports Lighting and The City of Muscatine Melding art, architecture and music into perfect concert with one another on the Norbert F. Beckley Memorial Bridge was a Christmastime delight in Muscatine last year. A collaboration of Musco Lighting and the City of Muscatine resulted in a choreographed display, part theatre, part dance, part painting, but mostly just cool. It was forged by some incredible artists and engineers from Musco Lighting, Muscatine Power and Water, Stanley Consultants, Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the City of Muscatine. Inspired by Leadership Muscatine, Class of 2005, to install the initial, colored lighting, the team’s decision to do more came from Pat Cooley, software manager, who while putting conduit in place. But the public who crowded the park below came and stayed for the changing colors and variety of music, sometimes for two or three presentations. With the popularity of the show, organizers are looking to expand to other holidays. We can’t wait to see what they will do next. envisioned choreographing light to music. The biggest challenge was adapting to the movement of the bridge
Stewardship: Mary Lind In 2003, tired of seeing so many unhappy gardens on her Ben Butterworth Parkway
walks, Mary Lind couldn’t help herself and began deadheading and weeding on her strolls. She then enlisted the help
of her book club, promising they would only have to take care of three of the ower beds. In 2008, Mary created the Garaden Guardians program through Keep Moline Beautiful. To help the city with the care of the many gardens, she planted signs that asked, “Would you like to adopt this garden?” During COVID, when park maintenance had to be reduced, Mary wrote a letter to the editor asking for help. Her initiatives resulted in all 17 gardens being adopted. It’s one thing to see a problem; it is quite another to actually change things and inspire others to come along. Initiating anything and everything in her power to be of service to the Garden Guardians merits Mary Lind an Eddy Award for going against the current to achieve excellence on the riverfront.
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2024 EDDY AWARDS
Stewardship: Ducks Unlimited Flooded land was seen as damaged not that long ago, but Ducks Unlimited has shown us the power of ipping an assumption on its head. They have shown us through their work that ooded land is worth investing in; it becomes a savior, and the disadvantages of it become advantages. This nonpro t organization advocates on the national stage for responsible stewardship for ooded land. Their investments in restoring wetlands are rede ning the role of activism in business and investment. On the Mississippi alone they have worked on bottomland restoration, ood- plain conservation easements, Iowa nutrient reduction, prairie pothole protection and restoration, rice stewardship, and coastal wetland restoration. This year, they will work with the City of Bettendorf on the Duck Creek oodplain and with the Upper Mississippi River and Towns Initiative on curbing Mississippi River ooding on several tributaries. With multiple partners, they will deliver in- eld and edge -of- eld practices for producers in Scott County, hoping to cover 11,500 acres over 5 years with Regional Conservation Partnership Program funding of $6 million and a $2 million contribution from Ducks Unlimited. Their project manage- ment, funding, and advocacy is ensuring a greener future for our communities and the nation.
Education: Kelly McKay Already admired as a champion for eagles, this year he is spreading across Iowa with Building Better Birders 1–2-day workshops. Kelly McKay is the
embodiment of our conscience reminding us how to treat our wildlife with care. His clear minded call for the planet is one we should hear. He’s earned his authority on the national stage with
papers written, talks given, and workshops presented for over 30 years. Now, faced with climate change,
he hopes to create citizen scientists of us all. F unded through Iowa’s REAP program, last year alone he and his team created 1,086 new citizen scientists in Iowa working with county conserva- tion boards. After Iowa, it is on to Illinois. Believing birding is the vehicle for engaging people in activities such as Owl Prowls, and Bird Calling, he asks that they send observational data back to him for the research he is doing on bird extinction. Every generation has people who inspire subse- quent generations. Kelly has the potential to be that for people who will work in environ- mental science. We have not seen the end of his contributions.
Revitilization: Scott Beck & Bryan Woods If anything needed a facelift, it was 325 2nd St. in Davenport, and with vision and savvy, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, award winning movie makers, made it happen. Constructed in 1895, the now stunning Last Picture House movie theater was earlier an auto mechanic shop, car dealer, marine center, furniture store and pawn shop. Asked what the biggest challenge was, Scott answered, “The architectural deci- sions. We wanted something that would make Los Angelenas jealous. Our designers, Parragon Design and Twin Shores brought it back to life preserving the form of the building and the place it holds in the historic district.” Wanting to take advantage of views of the Mississippi River, Bechtel Park, and the Arsenal Bridge led them to developing the rooftop lounge, a place for gatherings and movies. The renovation that led to the Last Picture House has had a transformative impact on the way the neighborhood sees and serves itself. Besides breathing life into an old building, they are promoting the art of lmmaking, community building, and economic development in the hometowns they love.
Bryan Woods
Scott Beck
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2024 EDDY AWARDS
2024 River Activity: QC Health Initiative and Bi-State Regional Commission Bi-State is the map maker-- QC Health Initiative is the excitement maker. Together they host a website that promotes hundreds of trails an outdoor activity in the Quad Cities. Nicole Carkner, Executive Director of the Initiative, sounded the alarm after a QC health assessment about childhood obesity and mental health concerned area health o cials. She saw that her program, Be Healthy QC’s, partnering with a trail initiative such as QC Trails.org, could address the problem. Bi-State, already handling the technical demands of mapping, assistance to cities in nding funds for trails, and the intricacies of maintaining the trails website, welcomed assistance with Facebook posts to further engage the public in trail activities. Updates on conditions of the trails come from local governments; these are posted also. It is a one-stop shop o ering tools to keep track of all one’s trail adventures plus information about surface, di culty, and elevation of paths. That’s when the Initiative starts describing the fun. Denise Bulat, Executive Director, Bi-State Regional Commission, describes it as the perfect collaboration.. This association of health, economic, environmental, and social bene ts all within reach of a keystroke on QC Trails.org. and joining friends on the trails will make for a healthier Quad Cities. We have the QC Health Initiative and Bi-State Regional Commission to thank for it. Special Recognition Award: Jeff Nelson Je Nelson always seems to be 10 years ahead of everybody else. He has a clear vision and pragmatic insights on transit, sustainability, and community building. Add to that the grit and determination to stick with his vision for long periods of time—like 40 years— and you know why we are celebrating his distinguished career as CEO of MetroLink with a Special Recognition Eddy Award. Championing sustainability and inclusivity alongside growth, MetroLink, through his leader- ship, has not only broadened its services, but also had a deeply positive societal impact using technology to solve pressing issues. Working with the Mayor of Moline, he drew negotiated agreements with new big box stores that mandate accommodations for transit and reduced parking. In the 1980’s, he went to clean-burning diesel fuel in his eet, then to compressed natural gas, and now to battery electric becoming the rst transit district in Illinois and the Midwest to implement such a bus program. He always nds good policies which are environmentally and economically sound anticipating the future and actively working to shape it for the better. Equal parts visionary and pragmatist, Je and his team have pursued some of the most complex problems and accelerated the delivery of new technology in transit stations he has built. District Station is LEED certi ed, and the Operations and Maintenance Center in Rock Island is one of the most sustainable transit facilities in the nation. Public transit in a place built for cars is a really di cult problem, but tackling challenges are just opportunities to Je . Building the Channel Cat service to three water taxis, and adding three new docks with another planned for The Bend in 2025 has made ferrying loved by locals as well as tourists. There have always been two kinds of innovators; those who have a brilliant idea, and those who keep having them. Je is in the second group. He makes it look easy to acquire state and federal grants, build support among dynamic local leaders, and create a sense of pride of place so strong the momentum is catching. We don’t know how he does it, but we hope he continues with it! Nicole Carkner
Denice Bulat
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EAGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
— by Kathy Wine Eagles of Credit Island Photographer Travis Mueller recently captured images of the eagles’ nest on the small island to the east of Credit Island Lane. If you enter Credit Island and look to your left before the road splits you might just see the baby eagles being fed! To see more of Travis’s Iowa nature photography you can visit bigtravesty.myportfolio.com.
Photos: Travis Mueller
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May, June, July 2024 | eddy Magazine 7
FLOATZILLA
River Action’s Floatzilla Returns for Another Spectacular Event Adventure Starts Here! — by Michael Corsiglia
S ummer is just around the corner, and with it comes one of the Quad Cities’ most anticipated events: Floatzilla! Hosted by River Action, Floatzilla is an annual celebration of community, camaraderie, and the beauty of the Mississippi River. This year, as we gear up for another unforgettable experience, let’s take a sneak peek at what Floatzilla 2024 has in store. What is Floatzilla?
the paddling is done. Grab a cold beverage, kick back, and enjoy the music as you relive the highlights of your Floatzilla experience.
Food Extravaganza: Indulge your taste buds with a mouthwatering selection of food options at the post- paddle celebration. From savory seafood to delicious desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Feast on lobster rolls from Cousins Maine Lobster, savor the avors of authentic Mexican cuisine from El Mariachi, or cool o with a sweet treat from Kona Ice or Jackie’s Ice Cream. With vendors like Cocina Verde, the full nelson, Bayside Bistro, and The Flavor Train QC, you won’t go hungry at Floatzilla! Exclusive Floatzilla Merchandise: Make sure to snag your o cial Floatzilla gear, including the return of the fan- favorite tie-dye shirts! In addition to tie-dye tees, we’ll have a range of exclusive Floatzilla merchandise available for purchase. Show your support for Floatzilla and take home a souvenir to remember your paddling adventure. Save the Date Mark your calendars for August 17th, 2024, and join us for a day of adventure, excitement, and community spirit at Floatzilla! Stay tuned for more details, including registration information, event schedule, and special announcements.
Floatzilla is THE largest paddling event on the Mississippi River, attracting paddlers of all ages and skill levels from around the country. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker, a novice canoeist, or simply someone who loves spending time on the water, Floatzilla o ers something for everyone. The Main Event At the heart of Floatzilla is the iconic Guinness World Record attempt for the Largest Flotilla of Kayaks and Canoes. Each year, hundreds of paddlers gather at the nish line in Lake Potter, forming a colorful armada that stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s a sight to behold and a testament to the community’s passion for paddlesports and environmental stewardship What’s New This Year? Floatzilla is always evolving to o er new and exciting experiences for participants. Here’s what’s in store for Floatzilla 2024:
Haven’t Registered Yet? Visit oatzillaqc.org or scan the QR Code Below!
Outdoor Expo: Prepare to be impressed by our inaugural Outdoor Expo, running adjacent to our packet pickup event on August 16th starting at 4 p.m. Browse through a diverse selection of vendors showcasing the latest in outdoor gear, adventure equipment and the o erings from environmentally focused groups. Make sure your fully prepared for your oat with a complimentary vessel check conducted by the U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary! Live Music by The Dani Lynn Howe Band: Get ready to groove to the sounds of The Dani Lynn Howe Band at our post-paddle celebration! Known for their energetic performances and rockin’ tunes, The Dani Lynn Howe Band will keep the party going long after
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ROLL OUT RESULTS
R iver Action is thrilled to share the tremendous success of our “Roll out the Rain Barrels” event on Earth Day, a pivotal moment in — by Michael Corsiglia
our 40th-year celebration. We distributed 400 rain barrels in continuation of our Retain the Rain program, showcasing our enduring commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. These rain barrels found new homes with organizations such as the Sisters of Humility of Mary, Nest Café, Tapestry Farms, Habitat for Humanity, Floreciente Neighborhood Community Gardens, Rock Island Church and the City of Rock Island Community Gardens. Each barrel symbolizes not just a tool for responsible stormwater management, but also the collective e ort towards a greener, more sustainable future in the Quad Cities area.
Volunteers Mark Mathies, Gary Kerofsky, Mary Rourke, Rhythm City Casino, and True Team/eXp Realty gather at River Action after a morning of rolling out rain barrels. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and the dedication of our volunteers. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of them for their invaluable contributions in making this event a resounding success. Together, we’re paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.
May, June, July 2024 | eddy Magazine 9
EXPLORE THE RIVER
— by Ashley Hamerlinck Summer Education River Action’s Explore the River Series begins May 28th! O s part of our Summer Education Program, the Explore the River Series teaches participants rst-hand about the wildlife, history, culture, and geography of the Mississippi River and the Quad Cities. These exciting and informative in person sessions are given on the Channel Cat Water Taxi or during a guided walk at varying river
This year’s ‘Lock & Dam for kids’ and ‘Gongoozling with USACE’ will be presented by Anthony Heddlesten.
Karen Anderson delivers her popular ‘Patriots of the Prairie’ Riverine Talk at Leach Park.
locations nearby. Join us in learning about the unique nature, history, and culture of the Quad Cities May 28th through August 31st. New this year, our very rst Riverine Walk will be guided by Kirk Marske of Renew Moline. Hear the latest information on the Spiegel Building and other exciting downtown Moline projects during his presentation, “The Past, Present, and Future of Moline Centre’s Riverfront”. Wrapping our Summer Education program, “This is a Farm”, is guided by Sonja Kinser of Tapestry Farms. In this new Riverine Walk, you’ll learn about innovative, self- contained Freight Farms as you tour a 320 sq. ft. hydroponics farm!
If giant birds get you excited, you won’t want to miss the popular Channel Cat Talks that are returning this year, including Dave Murcia’s “Raptors Along the River” and Tim Murphy’s “Quad City Pelican”. Our Channel Cat Talks will wrap up the season with Anthony Heddlesten & Josh Hendrix’s “Gongoozling with USACE – 200 years of operations, maintenance, and inspections along the Mississippi River”. On this river cruise, you’ll ‘lock’ & learn and help celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the rst regulation to start cleaning up the Mississippi River. Visit exploretheriverqc.org for the entire schedule and purchase tickets.
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EXPLORE THE RIVER
August 7th & 10th - Before Rock Island, There Was Farnhamsburg - Gena Schantz, Historian - Meet at: Schwiebert Park Pavilion in Rock Island, IL (Bring a lawn chair.) August 14th & 17th - Quad City National Weather Service O ce Tour - John Haase, Meteorologist/Forecaster - Meet at: NOAA/NWS, 9040 Harrison St. in Davenport, IA (Near Davenport airport) August 21st & 24th - The South Branch of the Mississippi: Small but Important - Dr. Norm Moline - Meet at: Bass Street Landing in Moline, IL August 28th & 31st - This is a Farm - Sonja Kinser, Hydroponics Mgr., Tapestry Farms - Meet at: Botanical Center 2525 4th Ave. Rock Island, IL EXPLORE THE RIVER! What: Explore the River Series – Channel Cat Talks & Riverine Walks When: From May 28th through August 31st. Channel Cat Talks are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-10:45am. Riverine Walks are Wednesdays 6:30-pm and Saturdays 9-10:30am Who: Quad Citizens of all ages learn from professors, engineers, historians, musicians, authors, business owners, and more! Where: Channel Cat Talks leave from Riverbend Commons, 2951 River Drive in Moline, IL and Riverine Walks leave from varying locations. Visit exploretheriverqc.org for details. Cost: Channel Cat Talks aboard the Channel Cat Water Taxi are $20. Riverine Walks are $10 or free for Members of River Action. Purchase a membership at riveracton.org/ member today!
Schedule – Channel Cat Talks May 28th & 30th - Lock & Dam for Kids - Anthony Heddlesten, Civil Engineer, USACE June 4th & 6th - Steamboating on the Upper Mississippi River - Karen Anderson, Historian June 11th & 13th - Raptors Along the River - Dave Murcia, Director, Wapsi River Environmental Education Center June 18th & 20th - Common Chord RiverCurrents Tour - Ben Schwind, Education Manager at Common Chord June 25th & 27th - Fantastic Voyage on the Mississippi - Dana Starkell, Adventurer, Paddle to the Amazon, Guinness World Record - 12,181 miles July 9th & 11th - Quad Cities’ First Residents - Beth Carvey, Retired, Black Hawk State Historic Site July 16th & 18th - Quad City Pelicans - Tim Murphy, QC Audubon Society July 23rd & 25th - I-74 Bridge & Its Features - Matt Dotson, Sr. Geotechnical Engineer July 30th & August 1st - The Music of Bix Beiderbecke & Louie Bellson - Josh Du ee, Musician & Jazz Historian August 6th & 8th - Our River Landscape Mosaic - Professors Reuben Heine & Norm Moline August 13th & 15th - Plastic Pollution on the Mighty Mississippi River - Lori McCollum, PACG August 20th & 22nd - Commercial Fishing on the Mississippi - Mike Schafer, Schafer Fisheries August 27th & 29th - Gongoozling with USACE - 200 years of operation, maintenance, and inspections along the Upper Mississippi River - Anthony Heddlesten & Josh Hendrix, USACE
Schedule – Riverine Walks May 29th & June 1st - The Past, Present, and Future of Moline Centre’s Riverfront - Kirk Marske, Program Manager, Renew Moline - Meet at: City of Moline Water Department - Thirty 18th St. in Moline, IL June 5th & 8th - Ballpark Backstage Pass - Dave Heller, Owner - QC River Bandits - Meet at: Stadium Suite Level at Entrance of Modern Woodman Ballpark June 12th & 15th - 50 Years of Re-imagining the Riverfront - Gates Thomas, Professor, Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA - Meet at: Oneida Landing (D’Lua Parking Lot) 1201 E River Drive in Davenport, IA June 19th & 22nd - Passion for Trees - Scott Carlson, Lead Consultant & Instructor, Iowa Arborist Consulting - Meet at: Lindsay Park Marina (On the river side, not East Village side. ) 2100 E. River Drive in Davenport, IA June 26th & 29th - Patriots of the Prairie - Karen Anderson, Historian - Meet at: Leach Park (West end under pine trees) 100 12th St. in Bettendorf, IA July 10th & 13th - Hiking Smith’s Island & Lock & Dam 14 - Mike McKean, Park Ranger, USACE - Meet at: Smith’s Island, 22549 182nd St in Pleasant Valley, IA (Lower gravel lot) July 17th & 20th - Helping Monarch Butter ies - Janet Moline, Retired Environmental Science Teacher - Meet at: Sylvan Slough Natural Area 4501 3rd Ave. in Rock Island, IL (One block West of Sylvan Island parking lot.) July 24th & 27th – The Historic Village of Port Byron - Dale Hachtel, Port Byron Historical Society - Meet at: River Valley Library 214 S Main St. in Port Byron, IL July 31st & August 3rd - Exploring
the Marsh - Amy Loving, Director of Education, Nahant Marsh - Meet at: Nahant Marsh 4220 Wapello Ave. in Davenport, IA
May, June, July 2024 | eddy Magazine 11
EDDY CALENDAR
: : : : : : Please check program websites for possible changes in schedule : : : : : :
May
River Action’s Explore the River Series
May 28 through Aug 31, Channel Cat Talks – Tuesdays and Thursdays 9-10:45 am, Riverbend Commons, 2951 River Dr. Moline $20 Riverine Walks – Wednesdays 6:30-8 pm and Saturdays 9-10:30 am, locations vary, $10 riveraction.org Join us for River Action’s Explore the River Series. Tour the Mississippi River aboard the Channel Cat Water Taxi while experts narrate. Riverine Walk participants explore the Quad Cities through a series of guided walks.
Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Show Memorial Day through Labor Day - every Wednesday and Sunday, 6:30 pm, Ben Williamson Park, 5000 44th St. Rock Island A free water ski show. Donations appreciated. backwatergamblers.com
Celebration Belle River Cruises April through November; Schedule, prices and cruise times vary, 2501 River Dr, Moline, celebrationbelle.com Enjoy the sights of the Upper Mississippi River aboard the area’s largest riverboat.
Green Drinks May 2, 5 pm, Zoom link found on pacgqc.org What’s Happening at the QC Botanical Center?, with Heather Ballou.
Riverboat Twilight May through October; Schedule, prices and cruise times vary, 197 Front St. Le Claire, riverboattwilight.com Elegant, triple-decked riverboat for day, overnight, and sightseeing cruises with dining. Get up close with bald eagles, pelicans, towering bluffs, historic river towns and the ever-changing valley landscapes. riverboattwilight.com
Niabi Zoo: Earth Day Everyday Celebration May 4, 10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Niabi Zoo, 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd, Coal Valley, niabizoo.com See endangered species from around the world and
discover the groups dedicated to saving them.
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JOIN US FOR THESE REGULARLY SCHEDULED EVENTS:
EDDY CALENDAR
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 First Thursday of each month at 5 pm. Local gathering of conservation advocates. Scan QR or visit pacgqc.org.
Quad City Audubon Society: Spring Bird Count May 4, quadcityaudubon.org or spring-bird-count.inhs. illinois.edu Niabi Zoo: Conservation Speaker – Dr. Greg Rasmussen May 7, 6:30-8:00 p.m., Niabi Zoo, 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd, Coal Valley, niabizoo.com Learn about conservation methods for saving the African Painted Dog. $8 members, $10 non-members, free for students/volunteers.
Niabi Zoo: Endangered Species Day May 18, 10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Niabi Zoo, 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd, Coal Valley, niabizoo.com Proactive actions we can take together to protect our rare, threatened, and endangered plant and animal species around the planet. Black Hawk State Historic Site: How to Help Monarch Butterflies May 19, 2:00-36:30 pm, Black Hawk State Historic Site’s Watch Tower Lodge, 1800 46th Ave, Rock Island, blackhawkpark.org Learn how to help monarchs from egg to adult, types of milkweed and insects that affect milkweed or monarchs and beneficial plants. Kwik Star Criterium May 27, The Village of East Davenport, quadcitiescriterium.com The 57th annual race provides a challenging and exciting course in the Village of East Davenport. A full day of racing featuring competitive riders from novice to professional.
Photo: Je VanEchaute
Nahant Marsh: Building Better Birders Workshop May 14-15, Nahant Marsh Education Center, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport, nahantmarsh.org These award-winning workshops are top to everyone and offer a great opportunity to improve birding
skills, learn about issues facing wild animals around the world, and meet like-minded people interested in conservation. Quad City Flood Resiliency Alliance Quarterly Meeting May 16, 3-4:30 PM, Riverdale City Hall, 110 Manor Dr, Riverdale, IA 52722 Discuss QC’s most at risk communities with special guest Nina Struss. Earth Day Fair May 18, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.,
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Hauberg Estate Native Plant Sale
Nahant Marsh: Bi-Can Garlic Mustard Pull May 4, Nahant Marsh Education Center, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport, nahantmarsh.org Help slow the spread of invasive garlic mustard and be in the running to win a trophy and bragging rights! Various locations around the QCA. Quad City Audubon Society: Dorance & Illiniwek Parks May 11, 7 am, Meet at the ball diamond parking lot at Dorrance Park, Port Byron, quadcityaudubon.org This field trip has yielded outstanding numbers of migrating and breeding warblers, tanagers, orioles, and woodpeckers.
Freight House Farmers Market, 421 W. River Drive Davenport Eco-friendly vendors will be on hand to answer questions and give eco-friendly advice. Free event sponsored by
May 18 and 19, 9a.m.-4 p.m., Hauberg Estate, 1300 24th Street, Rock Island, haubergestate.org Talk to experts and browse over 100 di erent species of native trees, shrubs, and perennials.
Progressive Action for the Common Good.
www.pidesigninc.com
Photo: Amy VanEchaute
May, June, July 2024 | eddy Magazine 13
EDDY CALENDAR
Events & Programs Programs
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Explore the River Series May 28th – August 31st, 2024
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Explore & Seek June 1st – June 30th, 2024
Explore & Seek
River Action’s Environmental Book Club May 28, 7 pm, River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, Davenport, riveraction.org, 563-322-2969 Discuss: The Genius of Birds, by Jennifer Ackerman. Discussions are free and open to the public.
Floatzilla August 16-17th, 2024
Senior Golf Cart Tour September 5th-6th, 2024
June
River Action’s 5th Annual Explore and Seek Scavenger Hunt June 1-30, riveraction.org Participants will seek answers to environmental conservation and historical clues to win prizes! Connect with nature and explore local Wild Places! Register at exploreandseek.org .
Taming of the Slough September 28th, 2024
Upper Mississippi River Conference October 16th-17th, 2024
Quad City Audubon Society: Mississippi Palisades State Park and Lost Mound Wildlife Refuge June 2, 6 am, Meet at Shuler’s Grove Park, Rapids City, quadcityaudubon.org This all-day field trip includes a stop for lunch. The trip features late waterfowl, breeding warblers, forest and grassland birds.
July Nahant Marsh: Cyperaceae & Juncaceae Identification Workshop July 9-11, Nahant Marsh Education Center, 4220 Wapello Ave, Davenport, nahantmarsh.org A three-day plant identification workshop designed to accommodate beginners as well as provide an advanced curriculum for professional conservationists and avid amateurs. $50 student, $160 standard.
Green Drinks June 6, 5 pm, Zoom link found on pacgqc.org What’s behind the decline of birds? With Brian Blevins, Wild Bird Shop.
Niabi Zoo: The Woman Who Loves Giraffes June 18, 6:30-8:00 9.m., Niabi Zoo, 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd, Coal Valley, niabizoo.com/conservation Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Anne Innis Dagg! Mary Dagg of the Anne Innis Dagg Foundation will speak. $8 zoo members, $10 non-members. Bi-Can Bioblitz June 21-22, 2:00 p.m – 2:00 p.m. Amówa Forest Preserve, 19500 Hubbard Rd. East Moline Find as many species as possible during this 24-hour event! Partner with various Quad Cities organizations and learn about local flora and fauna from an expert! Niabi Zoo: Breakfast with the Giraffe June 22, 8:30-10:00 a.m., Niabi Zoo, 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd, Coal Valley, niabizoo.com Celebrate World Giraffe Day and have breakfast with the tallest land mammal on earth! River Action’s Environmental Book Club June 25, 7 pm, River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, Davenport, riveraction.org, 563-322-2969 Discuss: Of Time and Place , by Sigurd Olson. Discussions are free and open to the public.
Green Drinks July 11, 5 pm, Zoom link found on pacgqc.org QC Climate Assessment with Nina Struss, Prairie Rivers.
Niabi Zoo: Breakfast with the Reptiles July 13, 8:30-10:00 a.m., Niabi Zoo, 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd, Coal Valley, niabizoo.com Meet these scaly friends up close! RAGBRAI July 20-27, ragbrai.com An epic eight-day rolling festival of bicycles, music, food, camaraderie, and community. It is the oldest, largest, and longest multi-day bicycle touring event in the world. River Action’s Environmental Book Club July 23, 7 pm, River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, Davenport, riveraction.org, 563-322-2969 Discuss: A Forager’s Life: Reflections on Mother Nature, by Mike Krebill. Discussions are free and open to the public. Bix 7 Run/Walk, QuickBix, and Jr. Bix July 26-27, 500 E. 3rd St, Davenport, bix7.com The 50th Annual race up Brady Street hill. One of the top running events in the country!
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Please indicate membership level. www.riveraction.org 563-322-2969 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 Includes benefits of Household membership plus 2 tickets to a River Action event - Choose one: Channel Cat Talks, Explore & Seek, Floatzilla, Golf Cart Tour, or Taming of the Slough. $ 135 Action Membership Name: ______________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _______________________________________________________ Phone: (_______) ____________________ Cell: (______) ____________________ Email: ______________________________________________________________ Payment: ○ Invoiceme ○ Check Enclosed ○ Bill my credit card Card # ___________________________________________ exp. Date _________ 3-digit security code: _________ Signature: ______________________________ Please check here if you would like to be more involved as a volunteer or committee member. JOIN Includes benefits of Household membership plus 2 tickets to a River Action event - Choose one: Channel Cat Talks, Explore & Seek, Floatzilla, Golf Cart Tour, or Taming of the Slough. $ 80 Household Membership Includes benefits of Individual membership plus 2 tickets to a QCEFS film. Discounts on Fish & Fire dinner & UMRC registration. $ 25 Student Membership $ 50 Individual Membership Includes eddy Magazine subscription and Riverine Walks. Includes eddy Magazine subscription, Riverine Walks, and one ticket to a QCEFS film.
Please indicate membership level.
$ 135 Action Membership
Includes benefits of Household membership plus 2 tickets to a River Action event - Choose one: Channel Cat Talks, Explore & Seek, Floatzilla, Golf Cart Tour, or Taming of the Slough.
$ 80 Household Membership
Includes benefits of Individual membership plus 2 tickets to a QCEFS film. Discounts on Fish & Fire dinner & UMRC registration.
$ 50 Individual Membership
Includes eddy Magazine subscription, Riverine Walks, and one ticket to a QCEFS film.
$ 25 Student Membership
www.riveraction.org 563-322-2969 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 Please check here if you would like to be more involved as a volunteer or committee member. Includes eddy Magazine subscription and Riverine Walks.
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