‘Rusty Rodeo’ Returns To Fox River To Battle Invasive Crayfish

KANE COUNTY, IL — Community members are invited to grab a dip net, get a little muddy and help protect the Fox River during the 8th annual Rusty Rodeo.

The free, family-friendly event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 15, at two Fox River locations: North Aurora Island Park, 4 E. State St., North Aurora, and Mt. St. Mary’s Park, 79 Prairie St., St. Charles.

Volunteers will wade into shallow waters to search for and remove Rusty Crayfish, an invasive species that can harm aquatic ecosystems by disrupting native habitats and competing with other species, according to a news release from the forest preserve district.

Naturalists will be on hand to teach participants how to safely collect, identify and remove the invasive crayfish while explaining the impact invasive species can have on local waterways. Participants should wear closed-toe shoes and clothing that can get wet and muddy.

A limited number of dip nets will be available to borrow, but organizers encourage volunteers to bring their own if possible.

The collected rusty crayfish will not go to waste. The animals will be used as food for animal ambassadors at participating nature centers, according to a news release.