(Above) Symbolizing the return of wildlife to the Chicago River, baby bluegills are released into the river on May 11 during a fish liberation ceremony that celebrated the 20th anniversary of Chicago River Day. The event also officially opened the season for McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum. (Photo by Cristina Rutter.)

May 17, 2012 – 3,500 volunteers left with more than memories at last week’s “Chicago River Day.” According to Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, a partner of Friends of the Chicago River, more than 35 tons – that is 70,000 pounds – of debris was removed from the river on May 12.

It was the 20th annual Chicago River Day. Over the years, volunteers working at 65 locations have removed 480 tons of debris from the river, according to Margaret Frisbie, executive director of Friends of the Chicago River.

“The success of Chicago River Day is, and always will be, driven by concerned citizens from across the watershed dedicated to protecting and preserving this important waterway,” said Frisbie in a news release on Tuesday.

Leinenkugel has been working with Friends of the Chicago River since last year, when the conservation group American Rivers put the Chicago River at #4 on a list of “most endangered rivers.” In June 2011, the Chippewa Falls company announced a partnership with the non-profit Chicago organization to help raise money to clean the river.

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