Dive into the World of Freshwater Mussels at Kennekuk Education Center Seminar
The Vermilion River basin, a treasure trove of biodiversity, is set to be the center of attention on February 13, 2024, with a special seminar focused on its freshwater mussel population. This educational event, hosted by mollusk experts from the Illinois Natural History Survey, will offer the public an insightful glimpse into the hidden lives of over 30 species of freshwater mussels thriving in the basin.
The seminar, scheduled at the Kennekuk Education Center in Kennekuk County Park from 10 am to noon, promises to be a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike. A highlight of the event will be a seminar at 10:15 am, where attendees can engage with experts and deepen their understanding of these fascinating creatures.
Freshwater mussels are vital to the health of riverine ecosystems, playing crucial roles in filtering sediments, stabilizing substrates, and providing nutrients for other species. Despite their importance, over 60% of mussel species are imperiled, raising concerns about their future. The Vermilion River basin, part of the Wabash River ecosystem in east-central Illinois and western Indiana, is home to several rare and endangered mussel species.
To address the need for updated data on these populations, the Illinois Natural History Survey has received grant funding for a new study. This research, supported by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, aims to provide fresh insights into the size and age structure of these mussel populations, a crucial step for effective conservation.
The seminar is more than an educational event; it’s a call to action for community involvement in environmental conservation. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions and engage in discussions about the methodologies and challenges in freshwater mussel research.
This public education seminar is free, with refreshments provided. To ensure a spot, attendees are requested to RSVP at go.illinois.edu/MusselTalk. The Kennekuk County Park is located at 22296 Henning Road, Danville, IL 61834.
