Spotlight on the Fox
The 2026 A River Flows Through It, Life in the Fox Valley
The 2026 series will kick off on Wednesday, January 21st, at the Baker Community Center in St. Charles. We're excited to present programs this year that highlight our beloved Fox River, the people and the wildlife that shape our communities. The River Corridor Foundation in partnership with The Conservation Foundation and the St. Charles Park District are pleased to present this series at no charge.
Marking our 7th year, the 2026 series presents programs that highlight our beloved Fox River, the people and the wildlife that shape our communities. "The series gets better every year as we strive to introduce new and engaging topics and speakers that connect to our community and the nature around us" said Laurel Moad with the River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles.
All lectures are presented at the Baker Community Center in St. Charles at 7pm on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We ask that guests pre-register using the link below to reserve a seat. And please copy and share the link to invite friends and family to join us to enjoy this truly unique lecture series. As always, Walk-ins are also welcome to attend.
January 21
The Majestic Migrators; Sandhill Cranes
Many species of birds call the Fox River Valley home. Sandhill cranes in particular rely heavily on the unique ecosystem in our region. Join us for an evening to learn about the natural history, highlighted characteristics, and conservation success story of sandhill cranes. Presented by Amber Ross (Forest Preserve District of Kane County).
February 18th
The Roaring 20's; Organized Crime and Prohibition in the Fox River Valley
Practically everyone in Chicago likes to claim a connection to Al Capone. What's Fact and What's Fiction? Chris Linden (Hughes Media) will peak our imaginations as he explores the legendary hideouts, real-life haunts and surprising stores of gangsters in our region.
March 18th
Quiet Wings of the Watershed; Butterflies and Moths of the Fox River Valley
Pollinators, including butterflies and moths, are critical for the health of our local ecosystems, just as they too depend on certain habitats to thrive. Although silently flying through the Fox River Valley, their beauty and impact is bold. Pam Otto, (Kane County naturalist) will share what these insects rely on locally and what we can each do to help them flourish despite the challenges of today.
April 15th
Coyotes Among Us; The Urban Coyote Research Project
For more than two decades the Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation in collaboration with local county agencies and Ohio State University has spearheaded the largest long-term study of urban coyotes in the world, based here in Chicagoland. Shane McKenzie, (Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation) will discuss insights into urban coyote ecology, discoveries made by the project and approaches to coexistence.
The River Corridor Foundation in partnership with The Conservation Foundation and the St. Charles Park District are pleased to present this series at no charge. Donations are appreciated to help fund this event.
