Urban Rivers

Urban Rivers is a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to transforming urban waterways into thriving wildlife sanctuaries that reconnect people and nature. We believe rivers should be more than channels for stormwater and industry—they can be vibrant ecosystems that support native plants and wildlife while serving as welcoming public spaces for surrounding communities.

Our work centers on restoring habitat, improving biodiversity, and inspiring environmental stewardship through hands-on education and community engagement. We design, build, and maintain floating gardens and other nature-based infrastructure that improve habitat for fish, birds, turtles, pollinators, and countless other species living in and around Chicago's rivers.

Our flagship project, the Wild Mile, is the world's first floating eco-park and a nationally recognized model for urban ecological restoration. Built in partnership with community organizations, government agencies, universities, and corporate partners, the Wild Mile demonstrates how cities can revitalize neglected waterways while expanding public access to nature. Urban Rivers is also restoring Bubbly Creek and other waterways throughout Chicago, creating healthier habitats and stronger connections between neighborhoods and their local environment.

Education and community involvement are at the heart of everything we do. Each year, thousands of students, volunteers, and visitors participate in our environmental education programs, habitat restoration days, wildlife monitoring, paddling experiences, and public events. Through our River Rangers volunteer program, community members directly contribute to restoring native habitat, maintaining floating gardens, collecting ecological data, and caring for Chicago's rivers.

Urban Rivers also works to make nature accessible to everyone. We provide free and low-cost opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore the river through kayaking, guided tours, educational workshops, wildlife observation, and community events. By removing barriers to outdoor experiences, we help foster a lifelong connection between people and the natural world.

Your support makes this work possible. Donations help us:

• Restore and maintain floating gardens and native habitats.
• Expand environmental education for students and families.
• Equip and train volunteers who care for Chicago's waterways.
• Improve public access to nature through free community programming.
• Monitor wildlife and evaluate the ecological impact of restoration efforts.
• Develop innovative, scalable solutions that cities around the world can use to restore urban waterways.

Every contribution helps transform neglected waterways into living ecosystems that benefit both wildlife and people. Together, we are creating healthier rivers, stronger communities, and a more resilient future for Chicago—one floating garden, one volunteer, and one restored habitat at a time.