New research published today in Urban Ecosystems documents growing fish populations within the Chicago Area Waterway System, which includes the Chicago River and Calumet River systems. Published by researchers from Shedd Aquarium and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), the study shows a gradual increase in both the total number of fishes and fish species, including native species, in Chicago’s waterways; further, the number of invasive species has declined. Results indicate that local Chicago waterways are more ecologically productive and conducive to aquatic life and less degraded than they once were. The study follows decades of management and policy actions, which resulted from the Chicago community’s persistent efforts to improve the river’s health, as it serves as an economic, recreational and cultural asset for the city of Chicago.

Read the press release:
07.28.20 Chicago Area Fish Populations Research_FINAL (1).pdf