Trempealeau River Rat Chat and Mississippi River paddle

On September 17, River Rat Chat participants had a chance to voice their water concerns while overlooking the Mississippi River bluffs and witnessing the start of the fall migration at the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge observation deck.

A few of the many issues that were raised were the multijurisdictional complexities of managing water issues on big rivers like the Mississippi River, the need to connect people to nature more for the health benefits and to increase their willingness to take action, the importance of grassroots efforts to protect our waters, the need for more local media coverage of these issues to increase awareness and action, and the failure of agencies to protect the state’s water, especially from CAFOs with known water quality problems.

Following the chat, long-time River Alliance member John Sullivan led a paddle trip along the Long Lake Water Trail, Mississippi River Pool 7, and the Black River Delta while delivering a natural history lesson that included flow, vegetation, and wildlife insights. Highlights included paddling through a sea of wild rice and identifying the many bird species by sight and sound. 

We are so fortunate to have people like John that have cared for and are willing to share their love and knowledge of our rivers for so many years. 

– Allison Werner, Executive Director and Ellen Voss, Aquatic Invasive Species Program Director

This message is made possible by generous donors who believe people have the power to protect and restore water. Become a member of River Alliance of Wisconsin today.