Participants can learn more about the Fox River, the dam, and the impact of dam removal at Dam Nite Out Batavia at Pal Joey’s in Batavia Thursday, Sept. 22.
The program will begin near the Batavia Dam on the Fox River at 6 p.m.. Kate Garrett, director of Batavia Depot Museum, will discuss the natural and cultural history of the Fox River in Batavia. The group will reconvene at Pal Joey’s where we can enjoy light refreshments and purchase additional food and beverages.
At approximately 7 p.m. Art Malm and Gary Swick of Friends of the Fox River will take a deeper dive into the research and facts associated with dam removal. They will address Fox River history, common concerns with support from scientific data, and an exciting vision for the future.
According to Swick “The dams on the Fox River were constructed to provide mechanical power for industry. In some cases the impoundment created by the dams were a source of ice cut for refrigeration. Power is no longer generated by these dams, nor are ice blocks harvested. The dams have been found to significantly degrade habitat and water quality, disrupt fish and mussel dispersal, and present a safety hazard to humans.”
Much has been accomplished to improve water quality over the past 50 years. Art Malm will present how the cheapest and easiest way to continue to improve Fox River water quality is to restore the natural habitat through dam removal. In addition, the restoration will result in improved recreational opportunities and protect human safety.
The Batavia Environmental Commission is host to this event in partnership with Friends of the Fox River( FOTFR). FOTFR has been advocating for River restoration for over 30 years.
Register at bit.ly/3Bz0LJp! Space is limited.
— Batavia Environmental Commission