Prediction for the Future of the Fox River
Many environmentalists believe the Fox River will probably
get worse before it gets better. With
the population near the Fox
River growing and growing, the river is destined to become more
polluted, and urban runoff will become more severe. As the river's
condition worsens, environmental groups hope that more people
will become concerned about the health of the Fox River, and
work toward cleaning it up.
The Fox has gradually become cleaner over the last 20 years, but that trend is beginning to slow. The Fox River will probably never become sparkling clean, but there is hope that it can continue to improve. The Fox has recently been taken off the Ten Most Endangered Rivers list. People who live in the watershed need to realize that the river still isn't in great condition and their continued effort and concern is necessary. The Fox River remains a very active area in Illinois because of its recreational and commercial uses, as well as its residential growth.
There
are many ways people can help the Fox River. People can join
Fox River protection clubs. Friends of the Fox is a well-known
non-profit volunteer organization that works to save and protect
the Fox river and surrounding watershed. They organize clean-up
events, provide education, and monitor the health of the river.
Many environmentalists believe the Fox River's health will
always be limited by the large number of dams on the river. Many
feel the dams are a main reason that the river will always be
threatened. Municipalities within the watershed need to limit
the construction of more buildings and 
parking lots within the watershed. These
paved areas cover up so much earth, that the rain runs off carrying
the chemicals and other pollutants directly into the river in
a process called urban runoff. People need to speak up at town
meetings and let legislators know that protecting this valuable
and scenic resource should be a priority.