Chapters in Indiana

The Chicago River, like many urban waterways, has been significantly altered over the decades to support industry and commerce, at the expense of nature and public access. At Goose Island, along the river’s north branch, the opportunity to create a new, river-centric park is growing as ‘The Wild Mile’, a mile long former industrial canal that is being transformed into a floating urban wildlife oasis. Using floating walkways flanked by man-made wetlands, we can take advantage of underutilized space, and help bring life back into the heart of the city, giving residents a chance to make new and meaningful connections to nature.

Phil is the Research Director at Urban Rivers, who’s work on the river started even before the non profit existed, assisting one of the co-founders with his master’s thesis work all the way back in 2013. His role at the organization is to investigate the ways in which artificial habitats support river ecosystems, and explore new methods to enhance restoration, even in very urban environments. Phil is a graduate of the University of Illinois and Northeastern Illinois University where he studied ecology, and has previously worked for the Illinois Natural History Survey, Shedd Aquarium, and Chicago Botanic Garden.

Learn about the distinct and amazing qualities of Monarch butterflies, their annual migration of nearly 3,000 miles, and their specialized relationship with Milkweed that is crucial to their survival. Jim invites all attendees to do their part to help preserve this unique creature. Attendees are invited to become Citizen Scientists for the Monarch.

Jim Starin is a retired professional, having earned respect as a successful business entrepreneur and leader. He launched Starin Marketing in 1988, an Audio-Visual Equipment distributor across North America. After 30 years as its CEO, he sold it to his employees and began looking for different opportunities to bring that same energy and passion. Jim has accomplished that with his role on the executive committee at CoAction, a community action agency serving approximately 50,000 people, and in his primary focus of gardening, educating and campaigning for the conservation of the Monarch butterfly. Jim has recently been named to the Board of Directors of Save the Dunes!

26th Annual Native Plant Sale 

Over 100 species of native plants including prairie plants, grasses/sedges, shrubs, ferns, wetland, and woodland plants.

True natives - no cultivars. 

Arrive early for best selection - no preorders. 

This event is rain or shine, but we are in a covered pavilion. Please dress accordingly.

See our website's Plant Sale page for more information.