Prairie du Chien, WI On Monday, August 1, the Rotary Club of Prairie du Chien hosted Mississippi River Adventure Day, a free, hands-on educational event for children ages 5-13, which took place at Lawler Park on St Feriole Island.
Through this collaborative event, more than 70 area kids and their adult chaperones had the opportunity to explore the Mississippi River with the assistance and expertise of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Clayton County Conservation and Osborne Nature Center, the Prairie du Chien Rod and Gun Club, Driftless Area Wetlands Centre, Genoa Fish Hatchery, and Maiden Voyage Tours.
This engaging event allowed children a unique chance to learn about river plants and animals, identify fish, birds, mussels and other aquatic life, learn about important historic events which took place along the river, and much more. The day of exploration provided kids who live on both sides of Pool 10 in Northeast Iowa and Southwest Wisconsin, with a fun, hands-on education about the ecosystem of the great Mississippi River which included a boat trip, seining, casting lessons and live sturgeon.
“During the event I spoke with both kids and chaperones about the education provided. They all indicated that the activities were interesting and informative. They were seemed to have a great time learning about the river’s history, animals, birds, fish, and insects.” said Mike Ripp, Rotarian and event co-planner.
In addition to educational partners, this event was also made possible by generous contributions from Culver’s of Prairie du Chien, Joe 2 Go, Zinkle’s Piggly Wiggly, Kwik Trip, Crossing Rivers Health, and Cabela’s.
Story/Photos courtesy of Sasha Dull/PdC Rotary Club
