Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is offering a unique opportunity to explore the Urban Stream Research Center at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville, Illinois. On November 18 and 19, the center will open its doors to the public for behind-the-scenes tours showcasing its work in raising freshwater mussels, federally endangered Hine’s emerald dragonflies, and other aquatic species.

Typically closed to visitors, the Urban Stream Research Center focuses on improving regional watersheds by expanding populations of some of the United States' most endangered animals, including mussels, crayfish, insects, and fish. Environmental interpreters will lead these tours every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. Tours are priced at $5 per person and are open to all ages (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Interested individuals can register online or by calling 630-933-7248.

The conservation efforts at the center highlight the importance of freshwater mussels, which play a crucial role in maintaining healthy aquatic habitats through their filter-feeding capabilities. The Forest Preserve District manages over 1,000 acres of aquatic environments across lakes, wetlands, streams, and rivers within DuPage forest preserves.

Since its first release in 2016, nearly 29,000 sub-adult mussels of six different species have been propagated and introduced into local watersheds such as the DuPage River, Fox River, Lake Michigan, and Des Plaines River.

The Urban Stream Research Center was established in partnership with DuPage County Stormwater Management and funded by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It has been operational since 2012.

For more than a century, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has connected people with nature through its extensive network of forest preserves covering over 60 locations. The district attracts more than 5.5 million visitors annually with its trails, education centers, programs, and various activities.

For additional information or inquiries about upcoming events and programs offered by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org.

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