Sharing the Chicago River Story in Warsaw

Friends of the Chicago River recently took our story of success to a new international audience at the United by Rivers Conference, held September 3 and 4 in Warsaw, Poland. The event was hosted by Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who has served as mayor since 2018.

John Quail, Friends’ director of policy and conservation, presented an overview of Friends’ nearly 50 years of bold action and advocacy, education, restoration, and planning that have transformed the river system. He also highlighted Friends’ work to lay the foundation for the next phase of river restoration, direct investment to areas of greatest need and opportunity, and prepare for challenges facing the river system, its communities, and ecosystems.

“Sharing Friends’ expertise and experience with river advocates from around the world was a powerful reminder that healthy rivers are increasingly a global priority,” said Quail. “It was an honor to bring the story of the Chicago-Calumet River system to Warsaw and exchange ideas with people who are working worldwide to restore and protect rivers.”