The Summer that Woke Up the River

In 1983 the Mississippi River Revival paddled a flotilla 700 miles, from Lake Itasca to Lansing, Iowa, organizing festivals and river cleanups along the way.

The Heart of the Beast River puppet catches a ride on the Collapso (Larry Long)

Larry Long

Wayne Hammer and his boatload of trash taken from the river near Latsch Island.

Sharing History Written on the Land

A nonprofit in the northwest corner of Illinois is protecting archaeological and historical sites along the river.

Protected areas in Jo Daviess County in Illinois. (click for larger image)

Friends of the Upper Mississippi River Refuges Photo Contest

The 2012 traveling exhibit will be in several rivertowns this summer. When you visit the photos you can vote for your favorite.

Camouflage by Madison Berg.

Autumn Shower by Alan Stankevitz.

See all the winners on the Friend's Facebook page.

Here's the schedule for the 2012 traveling show:

May 12 – 29 International Migratory Bird Day
Trempealeau Refuge Trempealeau, Wis.

June 1 – 28 National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium (fee) Dubuque, Iowa

July 1 – 31 Savanna District Visitor Center Savanna, Ill.

Aug. 1 – 30 Minnesota Marine Art Museum Winona, Minn.

Sept. 1 – 30 National Eagle Center Wabasha, Minn.

Oct. 1 – 30 Winona County Historical Society Winona, Minn.

Aliens in Asia

Some of the most valued wildlife species in the Midwest are causing big headaches on the other side of the world.

Restaurant Review
The Buffet is a Sure Thing at the Rhythm City Casino

The Hit Parade Buffet on this Rock Island floating casino offers a dizzying variety of food and a panoramic view of the river.