EDDY MAGAZINE - FEBRUARY 2015 by Milepost Ventures, LLC

Volume 5, Issue 1 | February/March/April 2015

A PUBLICATION OF RIVER ACTION, INC. www.riveraction.org

Connecting people to the river

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More Inside: First Bridge Design Community Revitalization Design with Nature eddy Calendar

Design of a reconstructed span of the First Bridge.

Non Profit Org. US Postage PAID Montezuma, IA Permit No. 30

DOLLARS AND SENSE. Businesses want to be near public transportation because it connects them with top talent. In fact, every dollar invested in public transit generates four dollars in economic activity.

TRANSIT MOVES THE QUAD CITIES FORWARD . National Association of Realtors and the American Public Transportation Association. “The New Real Estate Mantra: Location Near Public Transportation.” March 2013

PUBLISHER’S LET TER

Design Matters

Y February/March/April 2015

Volume 5 Issue 1

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KATHY WINE, Publisher / Executive Director BETH CLARK, Managing Editor, Milepost Ventures, Inc. JEFF VanECHAUTE/pi design, inc., Design EILEEN SIPES, Calendar Editor Contributing Writers TIM CHAMBERS, River Action Staff JESSICA FLONDRO, River Action Staff TIM GILLMAN, River Action Staff EILEEN SIPES, River Action Staff KATHY WINE, River Action Staff Contributing Photographers/Photographs ARMY CORP OF ENGINEERS RDG PLANNING • DESIGN ROCK ISLAND URBAN GARDEN CONSORTIUM SMITH GROUP / JJR BLDD ARCHITECTS BRAD KEENEY, CITY OF DAVENPORT MIK HOLGERSSON JESSICA FLONDRO LAURA KLAVITTER JEFF VanECHAUTE TIM GILLMAN AMY LOVING © eddy Magazine and River Action, Inc., all rights reserved, 2015. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without express, written permission, is prohibited. The views expressed herein, whether expressed as fact, fiction, opinion, advice or otherwise are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the ownership or management of this magazine. This magazine is sold with the understanding that neither it, nor River Action, Inc., its owners or managers, are engaged in rendering legal, accounting, tax, medical, technical, or any other advice, professional or otherwise. The publication of any advertisement does not reflect the endorsement of any products or services by the ownership or management of this magazine unless it is specifically stated in such advertisement and there is written approval for such endorsement. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material to eddy Magazine for consideration should not send originals. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other submitted materials must be accompanied by a self addressed, postage paid envelope in return of materials is requested. Return of materials is not guaranteed. eddy Magazine is published quarterly by River Action, Inc., 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 and is direct mailed to approximately 6,000 area homes and businesses. eddy Magazine Published by River Action, Inc. 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 563-322-2969 www.riveraction.org To Advertise: Contact Beth Clark 309-269-3455 or contact Deb Girard at debgirard@hotmail.com. For rates, ad dimensions and deadline information email BethC@milepostventures.com

ou know when you redecorate your living room, you start to notice other living rooms? It is the same with city design. You really look at views, surroundings, parks, and architecture once you start planning. In this issue, we ask you to really look at city design whether it is a large swath of shoreline frontage with multiple acres, or just a few, and Kathy Wine ask what is the right mix of uses here? Admittedly, it is a challenge to work with civic leaders, private interests, design professionals and the community to find good solutions, but environmental aspects as well as cultural and commercial ones while avoiding cookie-cutter approaches must be respected. Also, look to see if developments are authentic to our area. All design looks through the history of the past and takes into account how sensitive it is to the water. It is not just how it looks both day and night, but also how it functions to be sustainable. Good, public design can improve livability, make communities pedestrian friendly, and influence the quality of life, all the time designing on a human scale, providing choices in housing, shopping, recreation, and transportation. Varied building types and land uses create vibrant and diverse cities. Preserving urban centers by restoring, revitalizing, and infilling takes advantage of existing streets, services and buildings while avoiding urban sprawl. Plans should not relegated to a shelf. Renew Moline, Renaissance Rock Island, Redeem East Moline, Downtown Davenport Partnership all are hives of expertise that have taken plans to the street. Likewise, master plans for ecosystems such as Nahant Marsh, Duck Creek and Rock River Ravines were implemented with a community INSIDE THIS ISSUE planning process that defined buffer zones, 4 Design Issue interconnected trails, viewing stations for 4 First Bridge Adopts Original Design limited public access, and at Nahant, an by Kathy Wine education center. 5 Design By and For the Community In 1996, area planners and River Action by Tim Chambers wanted to preserve and protect our most 6 A Space for Storytelling and Healing vital common thread, the river. To accomplish by Tim Gillman this, the “RiverWay Design Principles” were 7 Revitalize Through Design by Tim Chambers developed with The Lakota Group, Chicago, 8 Riverwatch Place and adopted in 1999 to provide standards to by Kathy Wine protect the ’sensitive balance’ between our 9 Re-Design Moline’s Downtown economic engine and ecological resource. by Tim Gillman The four components were: respect for the 10 Ernie’s Paver Layer by Tim Chambers river, river access, river corridor design, and 10 Design Plan – Green Valley Wetland river interpretation. They can be viewed at by Jessica Flondro www.riveraction.org; click on RiverWay Design 11 Design Plan – Hennepin Canal Principles. by Jessica Flondro In this issue, we take stock of past efforts 12 Design with Nature by Eileen Sipes and look at parks and recreation, neighborhood 12 Lake Odessa revitalization, urban infill, floodplains, ecological by Tim Chambers restoration, and innovation in design. We 13 eddy Calendar: conclude with a lessons from Steve Jobs; if you February, March, April build it well, people will pay for it. This message — by Eileen Sipes is for all of us designers wanting to create markets in beautiful cities and on sustainable Our Mission: riverfronts. River Action strives to foster the environmental, economic, and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront in the Quad City region.

To Subscribe or become a member of River Action: call 563-322-2969 or visit www.riveraction.org February/March/April 2015

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DESIGN: COMMUNITY

Davenport River Drive Pedestrian Bridge FE

Potential Connection to Adjacent Development Ramps from Bridge Plaza to East River Drive Interpretive Shelter and Markers Bridge Plaza Stairs from Bridge Plaza to East River Drive Expanded East River Drive Pedestrian Zone Connections to Future Development Pedestrian Bridge Stone Abutments Trail Peninsula from Bridge to Park Heritage Park Interpretive High Point Ramp and Stair Systems

EAST 4TH STREET

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A proposed vision of the site plan for First Bridge.

Coneptual Plan

15’

30’

First Bridge Adopts Original Design

November 17, 2014

— By Kathy Wine, River Action Staff

iver Action’s project, First Bridge, designed to link us to the Mississippi River, our heritage, and our future, has over a 150-year connection to the community and the nation. On the corner of River Drive and Federal Street, Davenport, hidden for years behind trees, lies the original embankment for the first railroad bridge across the river. One rail still stretches out toward the bridge’s other end along the shore of Rock Island. By the 1850’s, the crossing from Rock Island to Davenport had been identified as the best place to design this important bridge. It was directly west of Chicago, and the island acted as a stepping stone across this section of the river with its limestone riverbed. In addition, the rapids and navigation channel here had been mapped by Robert E. Lee in 1837. After design and two years of construction, the bridge opened to great fanfare April 21, 1856. The achievement of spanning the river had resulted in an impressive wooden Howe truss bridge over 1,500 feet long and painted white. There were five spans distinguished by Burr truss arches and a 286-foot swing span which allowed passage through the draw. Imagine what it must have looked like to a pilot coming around the bend – each span between the piers was 250 feet. Using these historical specifications, River Action proposes to reconstruct one complete span identical to the first. It would rest on the original embankment with limestone to replicate the piers. When completed, the recreation bridge will link the new Family Y with River Heritage Park and riverfront trails.

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Two weeks after the first crossing, the steamboat “Effie Afton” struck a pier and caught fire. The subsequent lawsuit became a defining chapter in the nation’s development. Steamboat interests argued the bridge was an obstruction to navigation, while the railroads, and one of their lawyers – a young Abraham Lincoln – argued that one person has as much right to cross the river as another had to sail up and down it. The Supreme Court ultimately agreed, the bridge remained, and the transcontinental railroad became a reality. “If I was asked to pick the symbol, to put my thumb on a map of where that connection between East and West began, it was not at the arch in St. Louis – that’s for Lewis and Clark history. The real beginning of connecting east and west was the bridge that connected Rock Island, Illinois with Davenport, Iowa.” Douglas Brinkley, Author, Historian. Ten years after the fire, the first bridge was replaced on the same embankment and piers. In 1872, it was replaced by a new bridge downstream where the current government bridge now stands. Noted author and planner, Kevin Lynch, wrote, “A desirable image is one that celebrates and enlarges the present while making connections with past and future.” What Time is This Place, 1972. When reconstructed, First Bridge will serve as a gateway to downtown and a destination for tourists interested in heritage travel. Its design brings history to life while embracing modern urban redevelopment and gives Quad Citians one more reason to be proud of this unique stretch of the Mississippi River.

60’

DESIGN: COMMUNITY

Design By and For the Community — by Tim Chambers

Throughout this issue of the Eddy we are introduced to a myriad of design concepts from environmental to architectural design, including a reconstructive pedestrian bridge linking people to the riverfront and their cultural history, and design to revitalize our urban centers. Let’s not forget those grass root designs that continue to change the appearance and functionality of our landscape on shoe string budgets. Community gardens and rain gardens are two examples that have profound effects on our communities and the urban environment. Community Gardens: Neighborhood, communal or community gardens, call them what you will, all are designations of gardens designed for and by a community. As a result, each garden is different from the other. Design is dictated by the needs and wants of each community, cultural background of the gardeners, and physical location. These gardens might be spaces strictly dedicated to the production of fresh vegetables and herbs or simply to the practice of horticulture. Garden layouts may reflect a communal approach to garden management, whereas others may be divided into plots, each worked by an individual or household. Whether located on a vacant city lot down the block from your home, in your neighbor’s backyard, or in a city park, community gardens offer opportunities for physical activity, urban beautification, cultural expression, and social interaction. They provide access to healthy foods and habitat for urban wildlife, while at the same time capture and filter stormwater and reduce air pollution. Community gardens make great outdoor classrooms, where knowledge is shared and experimentation is the norm. The proliferation of these gardens in the Quad Cities is the result of the dedication and hard work of grass root organizations such as the Rock Island Urban Garden Consortium, The Garden Growers, and the pioneering successes of various community efforts. As Laura Klavitter from the Tremont Garden Project put it, “Whatever you put in, you get out”. The Possibilities are endless. Rain Gardens: Rain gardens have become very popular in the home landscape and are gaining popularity with schools and private businesses. As cities continue to grow and replace natural habitats and agricultural lands with imperious surfaces, increased stormwater runoff causes urban flooding and lowered water quality in

A Rock Island Community Garden. Photo: Rock Island Urban Garden Consortium

Birds-eye view Tremont Garden Project. Photo: Laura Klavitter

waterways due to urban pollutants. In many cases these issues lead to costly improvements to municipal stormwater treatment structures. By design, rain gardens take advantage of rainfall and stormwater. Typically small in size, these gardens are depressions in the landscape planted, ideally, with native perennials and shrubs located strategically to capture runoff from roofs and imperious surfaces. Superficially, a rain garden might look like any other attractive garden, but as water enters the garden it is both infiltrated and cleaned. Both the City of Rock Island and the Partnership for Scott County Watersheds manage programs that subsidize the cost of installing rain gardens on private property. Rock Island will reimburse homeowners $4 per square foot up to $3,000, and since the program’s inception in 2005 the City has seen the installation of 246 rain gardens. While an individual rain garden may seem insignificant, a network of gardens will provide substantial environmental benefits.

A Rock Island Rain garden. Photo: Mik Holgersson

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February/March/April 2015

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DESIGN: COMMUNITY

The masterplan for the park and memorial. Credit: Smith Group/JJR

Space for Storytelling & Healing: Veterans Memorial Park — By Tim Gillman

The City of Davenport not only wants to make public parkland a priority, but they want it to be dedicated to the heroes that have

served our country. One of Davenport’s newest planned parks is Veterans Memorial Park. Lying just west of Centennial Park along the banks

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of the Mississippi, the land is set to be shaped into a well-designed memorial to those who have served. The memorial will be designed not simply as a local park, but a destination drawing veterans and civilians from across the midwest. The eastern portion of the park is slated to be completed within the next five years. Instead of a normal park with a single monument, the entire site will be dedicated as a memorial to veterans. It will be centered around a dramatic monument, with paths radiating outward for meditation, contemplation, and healing. Instead of straight lines, the paths will follow organic curves imitating nature’s own design. As with many public spaces in the Quad Cities, the entire park will connect with the river, drawing inspiration from it. Walking paths will connect with Centennial Park and LeClaire Park in the east, while the RiverWay bicycle/ pedestrian path will link the Park with Credit Island to the west. Because the park will be built in the floodplain, special consideration is given to the power of the river. Instead of attempting to make the park accessible during flood events, the designers want to make the space easily maintainable and resilient after a flood – a testament to its mission of healing and regrowth. Veterans Memorial Park will be a place of remembrance and optimism, telling the story of our nation’s greatest heroes with a symbolic eternal flame.

DESIGN: REVITALIZE

Revitalization through Design As a newcomer to the Quad Cities my intrigue is renewed every time I walk through urban Rock Island. With its historical districts and position on the mighty Mississippi, it seems as though I can almost re-live the City’s rich history – Saukenuk, Fort Armstrong, the first railroad bridge, Looney, and prohibition era speakeasies. Although urban Rock Island has experienced decline since its peak in the 1960’s, its future potential is undeniable. Recognizing its own potential, the City embarked on a public planning process in 2012, building on previous planning efforts to reverse long-term trends in urban decline, to develop a revitalization plan for the Arsenal Gateway. The area of focus incorporates sections of several urban neighborhoods – the Broadway Historic District, Downtown district, and the Greenbush neighborhood – located proximally to one of the Quad Cities’ major employers, the Arsenal. Adopted by Rock Island in July 2013, the plan considers the complexity of the urban community and the interaction of social, economic, and environmental forces. Recommendations include designs to increase access to the riverfront, expand greenspace, and improve pedestrian and bicycle access and safety. They also include the redesign of

— By Tim Chambers streetscapes and the inclusion of public art to enhance aesthetic, infill of vacant lots, and opportunities and strategies to direct both public and private investment. While planning and design documents are essential in informing effective long-term redevelopment and revitalization, they are also great at collecting dust on municipal bookshelves. It is ultimately the community – residents, development non-profits, transit districts, government and local businesses – acting together that drive change. In 2014 Arsenal Gateway saw the opening of the Locks – a transit oriented housing development and a new transit transfer station that fulfills transit system needs and improves rider safety. Both are examples of successful collaborations between the growth, MetroLINK and the City. Meanwhile, local businesses, like Rozz-tox on 3rd Ave and 21st Street, are changing the social and economic landscape. Through its original social design, Rozz-tox has created a dynamic space welcoming of expression that attracts a diversity of artists to the Arsenal Gateway. To see the Arsenal Gateway Revitalization Plan, visit http://www.rigov.org/ documentcenter/view/5611

Rozz-Tox, 2108 3rd Ave, Rock Island. Photo Tim Gillman

February/March/April 2015

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DESIGN: REVITALIZE

RiverWatch Place: River Views and Public Enjoyment — Kathy Wine BLDD Architects, a member of the development team, is the building designer.

n September, Downtown Davenport Partnership announced the demolition and redevelopment of the former Howard Johnson hotel site at 227 LeClaire Street, a key eastern gateway to downtown Davenport, Iowa. The $25M proposed development, known as Riverwatch Place, is a six-story, mixed-use office building that includes first floor commercial/retail use and restaurant space with Mississippi River views. The building is 60,000 SF (10,000 SF per floor), will feature outdoor vista points on each floor, and a large

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dining area on the top floor. Improving this site has long been a goal of the selected developers. It “offers extraordinary river views… Our mission is to deliver a ‘trophy’ property worthy of the site,” said John G. Ruhl, President of NAI Ruhl Commercial Co. a developer along with Bush Construction. The urban infill project on a property that has sat empty since 2009 will add to the Davenport skyline, both day and night, and provide a welcoming entrance to the

downtown. Kyle Carter, Executive Director, DDP. reports that demolition of the existing building is planned to begin the first of the year with construction of the new building to follow. Building design is by BLDD Architects. “It will be built knowing full-well that flooding is an issue that must be mitigated via design,” he adds. Property owner Demolition Davenport, through the Downtown Davenport Partnership, will continue to be the steward of the property until a final closing.

DESIGN: REVITALIZE

A birds-eye illustration of the long-term vision for downtown Moline, looking southwest. Credit: Lakota Group

An artist’s concept for a pedestrianized street on 4th Ave. at 7th St., looking east. Credit: Lakota Group

Re-designing Moline’s Downtown L

ike many towns in the midwest, Moline and the rest of the Quad Cities fall into what is known as The Rust Belt. With declining populations and loss of manufacturing jobs, towns like Moline have had to think outside the box when it comes to planning and economic development - to bring in new jobs and revenue while making the area an enjoyable place to live. Moline’s latest comprehensive plan updates provide strategies to fill its downtown area with well-thought-out designs. These updates focus on three downtown neighborhoods: Floreciente to the west, Moline Centre, and Edgewater in the east. While the further-out areas of Moline are booming, especially along the John Deere corridor, the city recognizes the importance of a strong and diverse downtown as an alternative to urban sprawl. The city has distinguished itself by mixing completely new infill developments with reuse projects, showcasing historical architecture without being averse to modern building projects. This gives Moline’s downtown variety and depth. A city block acts as timeline with both older and contemporary designs. This can be seen with the historical redevelopment of the Washington Square apartments originally rowhouses for John Deere executives in the 19th century, now just down the block from the very modern Kone Center. The new transit development - dubbed “The Q” will refurbish an existing warehouse with newly constructed additions housing the new Amtrak station, a hotel, and possible retail space. Creative uses are being planned for existing and historical buildings in both the Floreciente and Edgewater neighborhoods. New infill developments would take advantage of relatively inexpensive land and open lots - providing an economic boost to the neighborhoods and taking advantage of available infrastructure. In Floreciente, this could mean a re-purposed theater or a pedestrianized

street - similar to traditional Latin-American plazas. Edgewater will benefit from it’s proximity to the new Western Illinois University campus, making it a perfect fit for college town cafes and shops. These developments would couple with re-designed streets to inject vitality into neighborhoods where it is most needed. Moline has recognized that well-designed streets not only manage traffic, but also lead to more pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Since 2005, the city has outlined specific designs for improving streets - including benches, planters, unique crosswalks, and stylish lighting. The best example of this “streetscaping” is on 5th Avenue in Moline Centre. On any given day the street is filled with buzzing storefronts, cafes, and restaurants. Businesses and people alike are enjoying the slowed-down Main Street feel. The benefits are both aesthetic and economic. The city plans to expand it’s streetscaping plans into Floreciente and Edgewater, calming traffic along busy one-ways while making the neighborhoods more walkable and livable. After demolition of the existing I-74 bridge, there will be many opportunities to open up and redevelop the riverfront area. Multiple plans have been outlined, all of which feature a new riverfront park. Mixed-use residential or commercial buildings will compliment the critical public parkland, connecting more of the downtown to the river. This public space could be seen as Moline Centre’s “front yard” along the Mississippi - providing area for outdoor activities, concerts, and festivals. The area will be planned around the new, modern I-74 bridge. With more modern buildings being constructed along Moline’s riverfront, developers have drawn from a design pallet that takes into account other new and modern structures in town, contrasting nicely with the more traditional downtown urban core. While they are all distinctly different, projects like the Kone Center, iWireless Center, WIU Riverfront

— By Tim Gillman

Campus, and Riverbend Commons draw inspiration from one another - incorporating river themes, complimentary architecture, and environmentally-conscious features. The planned improvements are great examples of revitalization through design giving a genuine sense-of-place and pride to downtown Moline. To see Moline’s comprehensive plan, visit http://moline.il.us/index.aspx?NID=304

30 groups in Scott County are making a difference in the environment by cleaning up. Join them by adopting your spot today.

Find out how at www.ilivehereqc.org. February/March/April 2015

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DESIGN: INNOVATION

Ernie’s Paver Layer — By Tim Chambers

n need of a solution to make the installation and repair of brick streets and alleys in historic districts more efficient and cost effective, the City of Davenport began researching mechanisms, only available in Europe, that would do just that. The results were cost prohibitive and the inflexible design of available machinery was not adaptable to the needs of the City. Running out of options the Public Works Department turned to City Mechanic Ernie West for a solution. After viewing a short video on June 7th describing brick laying technology, he was asked by his supervisors, “Can you build one?” Agreeing it would be possible, Ernie was given three weeks to complete the design and procure all of the necessary parts and materials. Riding on tracks off of a John Deere skid steer, powered by a 20 horsepower Honda engine, this strange looking contraption is both ingenious and versatile. Hydraulically operated with an auto leveling system, Ernie’s machine can lay bricks in widths ranging from five to eighteen feet allowing the city to resurface alleys, streets and sidewalks, in- house. Two people can do the work in half the time it would take

Ernie West and his brick laying machine. Photo Credit: Brad Keeney, City of Davenport, Department of Public Works.

four to do the same job manually; saving tax payers money and city employees’ their backs. Learning of this new machine from Brian Stineman, Natural Resource Manager with the City Public Works, River Action had to meet its creator. Ernie’s paver layer means a new day for stormwater management and water quality in Davenport. Completed on October 1st, this machine is capable of efficiently installing permeable pavers, important tools to manage stormwater in cities. Because of Ernie’s original design, the proliferation of permeable streets is sure to be in Davenport’s future.

DESIGN: NATURE

Green Valley Wetland Creation and Prairie Restoration Design Plan — By Jessica Flondro

John Deere Rd

reen Valley Nature Phase I Wetland Creation Preserve at 60th St, Moline, adjacent to the Rock River, is comprised of more than 250 acres of bottom-land forest, mesic prairie, 60th St and wet meadow. The Wetland Creation Prairie Planting Walking Path 2015 design plan will Wetland Creation result in the creation of approximately five acres of pothole wetlands and seven acres of native prairie restoration. Wetland Creation - 5.1 Acres Rock River Bike Trail Prairie Planting - 6.9 Acres Pothole wetlands Walking Path - 5,100 ft will be excavated to Rock River 0 230 460 Feet a depth of 12”-18.” Jessica Flondro, February 2015 Design Credit Mik Holgersson Displaced soil will be spread and seeded to create a mesic prairie ecosystem, with The prairie potholes will be restored to In addition to wetland creation and attention to both infiltration potential and native wet prairie, dominated by a mixture of prairie restoration, a 5,100 foot mowed aesthetics. The seed mix will generate a grasses, sedges, and forbs, including: prairie walking path will be created between seasonal color palate ranging from white cordgrass, Canada bluejoint grass, lake sedge, the river and the wetlands to showcase and yellow, to blue and magenta and hop sedge, fox sedge, mountain mint, New the restoration, provide access for the will likely include: big blue stem, Indian England aster, angelica, marsh marigold, general public and students, and promote grass, prairie dropseed, black eyed susan, swamp thistle, swamp milkweed, and blue connectivity within the preserve and the compass plant, rattle snakemaster, and flag iris. larger Rock River Trail. blazing star.

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Unit 2

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Turkey Chute

Fox Pon d

Yankee Chute

Bebee Pond

Field 6 Sand Little Goose Prairie Pond Planting

Existing Outlet Structure

Turkey Island

Swarms Pond

Goose Pond

Spillway Spillway

Black Big Mallard Pond

Heidelbaugh Pond

Lake Odessa

Burris Ditch

Beaver Pond

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— By Tim Chambers Unbeknown to many, the Mississippi River is the only river in the United States to be recognized by Congress “… as a nationally significant ecosystem and a nationally significant commercial navigation system”. To ensure that Congress’ vision remains a reality, the Army Corps of Engineers and its partners have been working through their Upper Mississippi River Restoration Program (UMRR) to implement innovative and effective habitat restoration projects by combining cutting edge monitoring and research with pioneering environmental design. For over 25 years Corps designers have been refining construction techniques to improve habitats in ways never before imagined. To date, a total of 55 projects, benefiting more than 102,000 acres, have been completed through the UMRR program, with another 35 projects in either the construction or design phase. A prime example of UMRR program’s work is the Lake Odessa Complex located 15 mile south of Muscatine in Louisa County, Iowa. This 6,788 acre backwater complex has been

Hail Island cture Stru Inlet ater ting Exis Dedicated Wnel FWS Spillway an Wing Dam Bay & Ch Prairie Pocket Michael Creek Field 21 MSU

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Lake Odessa: Upper Mississippi River Restoration

Iowa River

DESIGN: NATURE

IDNR MSU

Run

Lake Odessa Restoration Map. Image courtesy of Army Corps of Engineers. LEGEND Restore Primeter Levee

Excavate Channel/Deep Holes

actively managed for wildlife sinceHydraulic the 1950’s. Mast Tree Planting Dredging Borrow Site With its 1,800 acres of open water, Archeological 1,700 acres Dredged Material Placement Site Site Protetction of non-forested wetlands, and 2,900 acres of bottomland hardwood forests, Lake Odessa has long provided critical habitat for a multitude of wildlife species. However, a long history of floods and levee breeches has resulted in a reduction of quality habitat especially important for fish and migratory waterfowl. In response to habitat degradation, the Corps set out in 2006 to restore and protect wetland, terrestrial, and aquatic habitat through the restoration of the existing perimeter levee system, spillway construction, dredging, the construction of new water control structures, seeding of sand prairie, and the planting of nut

Portable Pump and/or Pad

bearingReplace hardwood tree species. This project / New Water 0 1 Control Stucture has gone a long way in reducing forest Ne w Pump Station fragmentation, increasing hardwood tree diversity and native grassland, expanding and enhancing wildlife habitat, and protecting archeological features within the complex. Lake Odessa, open to visitors, is managed jointly by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Iowa DNR and supports 240 species of birds and 96 species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and fish. The design of appropriate restoration and management of lands, such as Lake Odessa, is imperative to the ecological sustainability of the Upper Mississippi River System. 1/ 2 mile

mile

Scale

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DESIGN: NATURE

Design with Nature — By Eileen Sipes I take my title from designer Ian McHarg’s Design with Nature. He states, "It contains a gradient of meaning. It can be interpreted as simply descriptive of a planning method, deferential to places and peoples, it can invoke the Grand Design, it can emphasize the conjunction with and, finally it can be read as an imperative.” Ian L. McHarg, September, 1991 Classroom and lab facilities at the Education Center are available for K-12 field trips and educational research. However, due to programming growth, it has been difficult to meet needs. In December, 2013, the Nahant Marsh Board of Directors began fundraising to expand the current building. Ground breaking took place November 20, 2014, on a 1,600 square feet addition to the current building that

will include a classroom capable of seating 100 people, more bathrooms, and much needed storage space. Design Features – To stay above the floodplain, the new addition will be raised 18 inches. A second septic system will be added to serve the new addition. Renewable energy, part of a class project through Eastern Iowa Community College, will benefit the new space and lower utility costs. A parking lot expansion will be equivalent to the present lot plus 50 additional feet. The project, designed in an environmentally responsible way with the least amount of impact on the wetlands, is expected to be completed in spring, 2015. The Ecological Importance – Nahant Marsh is one of the last remaining urban wetlands of its size on the upper Mississippi River. It offers a wide variety of environmental education for people of all ages on wetland

Hennepin Canal Environmental Park Restoration Design Plan he Hennepin Canal Environmental Park at the Steel Dam and Lock 30 in Milan is comprised of mesic Jessica Flondro, February 2015 prairie and woodland edge. The 2015 restoration and Design Credit - Mik Holgersson design plan includes improvements to the walking path and removal of vegetation at the portage, which will connect visitors to the portage site and the Rock River. Restoration plans also include the removal of invasive and encroaching vegetation from historic Lock 30 infrastructure and the installation of new interpretive signage by the IL DNR to showcase historic canal features at the site. The DNR will also dredge the canal above and below Lock 30 and stock native fish species to promote kid’s fishing days. Additionally, the design plan includes the repair of two existing park benches, the trimming of a large silver maple which will provide shade for visitors and a picnic table, and the restoration of 1.5 acres of mesic prairie in the wildlife area along the canal. The seed mix will likely include

David A. Johnson, D.D.S. 3512 Jersey Ridge Road Davenport, IA 52807

(563) 359-3494

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ecosystems, water quality, and biodiversity. From the 1960s to 1996, the land was used for skeet and trap shooting leaving Nahant contaminated with lead shot. Today, the 513 acre area encompasses different wetland community types including bottomland forest, open-water habitat, and marshland. It provides habitat to more than 150 species of birds, plants, fish, insects, mammals, and rare species such as the Leopard Frog and Blanding’s Turtle.

Lock 30 Historic Infrastructure

Silver Maple

To Portage

— By Jessica Flondro

Nahant Marsh Education Center (Photo by Amy Loving, Nahant Marsh Education Coordinator)

Hennepin Canal

Walking Path - 201 linear ft. Debris Removal - 5,490 sq. ft. Prairie Restoration - 1.5 acres 0

50 100

200 Feet

little blue stem, wild rye, milk weed, mountain mint, pale coneflowers, and Culver’s root. Prairie restoration will increase biodiversity onsite and provide an aesthetic backdrop for the canal and Rock River site. To showcase restoration efforts at the Hennepin Canal, River Action, with assistance from the Doris and Victor Day Foundation, will offer environmental education programs for 180 students from Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in the spring of 2015. Education programming and restoration efforts will make the park a safe and accessible place for families to enjoy nature and experience the historic aspects of the Hennepin Canal that have been hidden.

eddy C A L E N D A R

eddy Calendar February

$5. (includes presentation & continental breakfast, coffee, and juice) To register please call 563-323-5196 or by going to www.nahantmarsh.org.

Inaugural Frozen Fat Fondo Fest

Toddler Tales

Saturday, February 7, 11am-2pm, Credit Island Park, Davenport Join FORC in a fat biking challenge ride along the banks of the mighty Mississippi on Credit Island. Ride solo or as a 3-person relay team. See who can crank out the most laps in 3 hours around a challenge filled course. Stick around after the main event for a healthy dose of shenanigans! www.qcforc.org

Second Tuesday of each month, 10-11am, 2-3pm, Nahant Marsh Education Center, Davenport Even if we cannot see animals, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t there. We will learn about ways to identify animals without seeing them. Ages: 3-5. Cost $5 per youth. Register online at www.nahantmarsh.org

Muddy Boots

Every other Wednesday, 4-5pm, Nahant Marsh Education Center, Davenport The purpose of Muddy Boots Nature Club is to provide youth with the opportunities to learn while exploring nature. Muddy Boots engages children with hands-on activities like monarch butterfly tagging, gardening, bike riding, hiking, eco-crafts, and more. Ages: 6-10. For more information and to register please visit www. nahantmarsh.org

Earth Explorers

Feb 5-Oct 29, every other Wednesday, 4-5pm, Nahant Marsh Education Center, Davenport Our Earth Explorers after-school program allows children ages 11-14 years-old to explore innovative technologies and scientific concepts through creative outdoor activities and experiments. For more information and to register please visit www.nahantmarsh.org.

Photo: Jeff VanEchaute

First Friday of each month, 8-9am, Nahant Marsh Education Center, Davenport Join us for an informative breakfast about our feathered friends. The class will meet in the first Friday of every month beginning in October and continuing until spring. Each session will cover a group of birds from dabbling ducks to raptors to songbirds. Depending on weather, there may also be a short hike to our bird blind. The trail to the bird blind is ADA accessible. Cost:

DAVEY

Mardi Gras Rajun Cajun Fest

Tuesday, February 17, 5:30-8pm, $25 per person in advance, $30 at the door The taste of New Orleans is coming back to the Quad Cities on Fat Tuesday! Local chefs will be set up in the lobby of the Figge Art Museum where guests can sample each chef’s Cajun creation. All proceeds benefit the outreach programs of the Figge Art Museum. Tickets purchased in advance online or over the phone (563.326.7804 x2046) will reserve your spot. Name and identification required for entry. Doors open at 5 p.m

Skating at Riverside Park Lagoon

Thursday through Sunday, February 12–15, QCCA Expo Center From boats and tackle to decoys and gear, it’s an Outdoors Show with seminars and presentations from big name fishing professionals. Bring the family to Kids Kamp with a real trout pond, minnow races, and archery. Adults $7, Children 6 yrs-16 yrs $1, under 6 yrs Free.

Skating at Riverside Park Lagoon, Ice skating is permitted as weather allows at Riverside Park Lagoon located at 2750 5th Avenue. The lagoon has a warming house and public restrooms that are open seasonally when conditions are favorable for ice skating. Ice conditions vary based on changing weather conditions so please obey posted signs that indicate if ice conditions are appropriate for skating. Hours of Operation are 6am11pm, daily. Public session admission is $5, skate rental $3, all sessions are 2.5 hours. For more information call 309-524-2424.

Sierra Club Treehugger Trivia

River Action’s Environmental Book Club

Hunting, Fishing, and Outdoor Show 2015

Breakfast with the Birds

cocoa. Music will be provided by Just4Fun. Drew Nagle will call the contra-dancing. FREE. Singles, couples & family friendly. (309-788-9536) or www.blackhawkpark. org. This event is sponsored by Black Hawk State Historic Site in cooperation with Citizens to Preserve Black Hawk Park Foundation—education outreach for Black Hawk State Historic Site since 1972.

Fri, February 13, 6– 9pm, Freight House Farmers Market, 421 W River Dr, Davenport Reception Hall at Freight House. Doors open at 6pm, trivia starts at 7pm. Teams of 8 should register by emailing Jodi at loons85@mchsi.com. Not on a team? Seats will be available for walk-ins. http://sierraclubevg. wordpress.com/

Tuesday, February 24, 7pm, River Action office, Davenport Discuss The Big Year by Mark Obmascik. Meetings are open to the public and meet at the River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, between Tremont and Federal Streets. For more info, please call 563-322-2969.

Valentine Indoor Music and Moonlight Walk

Last Wed of each month, 6pm, Nahant Marsh Education Center, Davenport Are you looking to get more involved at Nahant? Then join us at our monthly Friends Meeting. For more information, call 563-323-5196.

Sat., Feb. 14, 6:30-8:30pm, Watch Tower Lodge, Black Hawk State Historic Site, Rock Island. Featuring a stroll outside on a luminary-lit trail. Too cold outside for the walk, come into the Lodge and keep warm by the fire with fresh donuts and cider or hot

Friends of Nahant Marsh Meeting

Phone: (563) 355-0701 ®

TREE & SHRUB EXPERTS SINCE 1880

(309) 788-8733 Fax:

(563) 355-8465

JASON HOUSWORTH District Manager I.S.A. Certified Arborist # IL4228A

EASY TO FIND. HARD TO RESIST.

THE DAVEY TREE EXPERT COMPANY 133 12th Street ● Bettendorf, IA 52722 ● www.davey.com

WWW.HUNGRYHOBO.COM February/March/April 2015

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eddy C A L E N D A R

Saturday, February 28, 7am, Wildcat Den, near Muscatine, IA Trip will travel from Buffalo Shores birding as we go to Wildcat Den and Fairport Fish Hatchery. Be prepared to hike the beautiful Wildcat Den State Park in winter. There is an optional stop for lunch in Buffalo. Meet at Buffalo Shores (one mile past Buffalo, IA, Hwy 22). langleyart@mchsi.com for more information.

March

Dyeing Eggs the Natural Way

Sat., March 21, 10 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave., Davenport, IA. The Nahant Marsh Education Center will present a class on the basics of natural dyes and using them to create colored eggs. There also will be a presentation on the history of natural dyes and tips for creating natural dyes at home. Participants should bring a dozen hard-boiled eggs and an apron or T-shirt that can get stained. There is a cost to participate and registration is required. (Ages 8 and up). Call 563-323-5196 to register.

River Action’s Environmental Book Club

A Photographer’s Feast

Saturday, March 7, 9am-2pm, Western IL University Quad Cities, $5 fee payable at the door. Whether you are an amateur or a seasoned photo enthusiast, come out and hear a talented experienced group of photographers offer their tips. River Action and Western IL University are co-sponsoring the workshop. Visit www.riveraction.org for more information, and to register.

Mississippi River Geotourism QC meeting

Monday & Tuesday, March 9 & 10, watch for details This is a series of four Project Planning and Orientation meetings to inform partners about this project; goals, process and benefits, and to highlight the roles of stakeholders and determine next steps towards implementing the Mississippi River Geotourism.

St Patrick’s Society Grand Parade

Saturday, March 14, 11:30-1pm, IL & IA Quad Cities parade route Starts in Rock Island, crosses the Centennial Bridge and ends up in downtown Davenport. For more information on the parade visit www.stpatsqc.com

Canoecopia

March 13-15, Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Way, Madison, WI Canoecopia is the largest paddlesports consumer event in the world, with over 250,000 square feet of kayaks, canoes, Stand Up Paddleboards, outdoor equipment and clothing. canoecopia.com

Sierra Club Program Meeting - Bald Eagles and Lead Shot

Mon, March 16, 7– 8:30pm, Moline Public Library, 3210 41st St, Moline, IL Ed Britton, US Fish and Wildlife Service will discuss new research on the impacts of lead shot on bald eagle populations. Meet in the Bronze Room of the library. sierraclubevg.wordpress.com

Home: 563-386-9162 Office: 563-326-5583 Fax: 563-326-1590

Tuesday, March 24, 7pm, River Action office, Davenport Discuss Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations by David R. Montgomery. Meetings are open to the public and meet at the River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, between Tremont and Federal Streets. For more info call 563322-2969.

Henry Farnam Dinner, 12th Annual Quad Cities

Friday, March 27, Jumer’s Hotel & Casino, Rock Island, IL Cocktails (cash bar) and displays 5pm, Dinner 6:30pm and Program 7:30pm. Tickets are $40 per person; reserved table of 10 is $375. Invitations will be mailed in early March to those who received invitations last year. For reservations, go to www.riveraction.org or for more information call River Action at 563-322-2969.

Environmental Film Fest, 10th Annual Eddy Award Winning

Saturday, March 28, Olin Center, Augustana College, 733 35th St., Rock Island, IL Admission is FREE although donations are accepted. Doors open at 11am. For film information and directions, check out www.augustana.edu/environmentalfilmfest. For more info about Eagle View Group, Sierra Club check out http://illinois.sierraclub.org/eagleview, or contact Kathryn Allen at kasavelie@aol.com. The public is welcome to attend any or all of the films being screened at the festival. Refreshments will be available.

April Quad Cities Audubon Society Field Trip

Saturday, April 11, 7am, Cones Marsh, IA This trip is to many the best of the year, with stunning views of many species of shorebirds, waterfowl, and other early spring migrants. Sandhill Cranes, Snow Geese, and many more, maybe a nesting Great Horned Owl, will be the highlights. Meet at Buffalo Shores (one mile past Buffalo IA, Hwy 22) at 7am. langleyart@mchsi. com for more information.

River Action’s Environmental Book Club

Tuesday, April 28, 7pm, River Action office, Davenport Discuss The Forest Unseen: A Year’s Watch in Nature by David George Haskell. Meetings are open to the public and meet at the River Action office, 822 E. River Dr, between Tremont and Federal Streets. For more info, please call 563-322-2969.

River Action’s Fish & Fire Fundraiser and Friendraiser

Friday, April 24, Watch Tower Lodge in Black Hawk State Park, Rock Island This annual catfish fry combines fundraising and friends. Bid on dozens of silent auction items, enjoy the dinner and entertainment, and be a part of the 16th Annual Eddy Awards Presentation – awards given to those in our community who go against the current to get things done. For more information or to register go to riveraction.org.

Photo: Jeff VanEchaute

Quad City Audubon Society Field Trip

Saturday, March 28, 7am, Lock and Dam 13 There will be many stops along the way searching for waterfowl and early spring migrants. This is a great trip to look for signs of spring! This trip will stop at Fulton for lunch; some may choose to continue birding after lunch. Meet at Brothers Restaurant in Hampton, IL, at 7am. langleyart@mchsi.com for more information.

Pick up a ‘Retain the Rain’ Rain Barrel for April showers!!! Rain Barrels hold 60 gallons, and come with a diverter, mosquito netting, and spigot, all for $75! River Action, 822 E River Dr, Davenport, or riveraction.org.

The 40th Stroll through Springtime

Sat., April 25, 7am-12noon, Watch Tower Lodge, Black Hawk State Historic Site, 1510 46th Ave (Blackhawk Rd), Rock Island 7-9am, trail walks to identify both migrating & resident birds (binoculars suggested), 9am, refreshments, including wild violet jelly, and a short program, and 10-12 trail walks to identify wildflowers. FREE (309) 7889536, www.blackhawkpark.org

Dr. Robert J.S. Ward Chiropractor

(By appointment)

GIFTS

1802 West Locust Street, Davenport, IA 52804

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Connect With Us learn

engage For over 30 years River Action has been dedicated to connecting people to the river. Our supporters help us to improve the quality of water that flows down the river. They help us to instill a love of the river through encouraging participation in many activities that involve the river. Plus, River Action encourages educational programs that help our residents better understand river related issues and concerns.

conserve

celebrate A membership to River Action offers you an opportunity to really make a difference in our community. With each membership you will receive discounts on educational programs as well as your continued FREE subscription to eddy Magazine Complete and mail in the form below to 822 E. River Drive Davenport, IA 52803 or go to:

www.riveraction.org

and click on membership!

JOIN TODAY AT www.riveraction.org or send check to 822 E. River Drive Davenport, IA 52803

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