INHS Great Rivers Field Station: Where Rivers Meet Research

The INHS Great Rivers Field Station (GRFS) in Alton, Illinois, stands as a crucial center for the study of large river ecosystems. Operated by the Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), a division of the Prairie Research Institute, the GRFS focuses its research on the Upper Mississippi River, including areas like Pool 25, Pool 26, the lower Illinois River, and the Open River Reach.GRFS plays a vital role in the Long Term Resource Monitoring Program (LTRMP), a partnership with other field stations along the Mississippi River. This program aims to provide river managers with the data necessary to maintain the Upper Mississippi River System as a healthy, multi-use ecosystem. GRFS scientists monitor water quality, fish, macroinvertebrates, and aquatic vegetation, contributing to over 25 years of data collection.The station's research extends to various critical areas, including supporting fisheries through the Long-term Survey and Assessment of Large-River Fishes in Illinois. GRFS also advises on issues related to invasive species, such as zebra mussels and bigheaded carp, providing data on their spread and potential impact. Additionally, the GRFS contributes to river restoration efforts and studies endangered species within the river ecosystems.While primarily a research facility, the INHS Great Rivers Field Station also offers educational opportunities. Exhibits illustrate the region's diverse plant and animal life and explain the ecological roles these species play. The station also serves as a starting point for outdoor adventures, with nearby trails and natural spaces for hiking and birdwatching.