Canoe or Kayak the Emiquon Complex on July 21

ISM Location: Dickson Mounds

For Immediate Release:

LEWISTOWN, IL – The Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, and The Nature Conservancy will be co-hosting a paddling event on Saturday, July 21, 2018 from 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.  Participants may enjoy wildlife viewing, and learning about wetland restoration efforts and current scientific research from each agency’s representatives.  Participants may bring their own canoe or kayak (including paddling gear, life jackets, and sunscreen), or reserve one of a limited number of canoes. Participants may also reserve a seat in one of two voyager canoes that hold more than a dozen people.

Dress appropriately for this outdoor activity, including wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.  Each participant should bring their own water and snacks.  Admission is free, and donations are welcome. To register or for more information, call the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Chautauqua Refuge at 309-535-2290, or email mitchell_baalman@fws.gov by Wednesday July 18.  Space is limited.  Please note that this year's paddling event will take place at one of two locations. If water levels at TNC’s Emiquon Preserve are accessible, paddlers will launch from the day use area off of IL Rt. 97/78. If the preserve area is not accessible, the event will be held in the backwaters of the Illinois River and Quiver Lake, launching at the Riverfront Park boat ramp in Havana, IL. The location will be announced closer to the date of the event.

The Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds is located between Lewistown and Havana off Illinois Routes 78 and 97. The museum is open free to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. Tours and special programs are available for groups with reservations. For more information call 309-547-3721 or TTY 217-782-9175. Also visit us on Facebook at Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds or online at the Dickson Mounds link on the Illinois State Museum website at www.illinoisstatemuseum.org.

Contact Person: Christa Foster

Contact Email: christa.foster@illinois.gov

Contact Phone: (309) 547-3721

Release File (pdf): dicksonmounds-paddleeventfinal.pdf

Release File (doc): dicksonmounds-paddleeventfinal.docx