News from Nature At The Confluence

Lena’s Reflection

Lena’s Reflection

Written by Lena Verkuilen, outgoing Board President, September 2023 September has always been a time of endings and new beginnings for me. As a child, it was time to say farewell to summer, get new school supplies, start classes and reconnect with friends that I...

Native Host Plants and Their Benefits

Native Host Plants and Their Benefits

Written by: Mason Hoffman (August 2023) We often hear about or directly deal with harmful insects that eat our garden plants and our crops. I myself have been battling spider mites on my houseplants for almost two years now. If I don’t diligently scrape them off every...

Adventures At The Confluence

Adventures At The Confluence

Written by: Faiq Ahmad (August 2023) Trails: As you arrive at Nature At The Confluence and take one of our trail maps, little do you know that you are about to embark on a breathtaking journey. Hiking through the beautiful scenery of the confluence of Turtle Creek and...

Message From Julie

Message From Julie

I recently had the privilege of visiting a friend who lives in Moab, Utah, and got to explore the stunning natural beauty of the American west. While hiking, I learned about the delicate and complex ecosystem of biocrust (pictured lower left), and the importance of...

Stella’s Perspective

Stella’s Perspective

Stella Barrett is back! Stella (they/them) volunteered with us last fall and has returned as a paid intern for the spring. Below is an edited Q & A with Stella, conducted by volunteer Mary Kaull.    What made you want to return this semester? I love the...

Become a sustaining Friend Of The Confluence

Become a sustaining Friend Of The Confluence

For those who share our vision of restoring the natural beauty of the land and inspiring community connections at the confluence of Turtle Creek and Rock River, we invite you to support our efforts by joining Friends of The Confluence- our monthly donation club. Over...

Grant to Beautify Kelly Creek Completed

Grant to Beautify Kelly Creek Completed

Kelly Creek is comprised of a natural spring that mingles with storm water before flowing into the Rock River. Buried underground 70 years ago to allow for development, the creek has been heavily impacted by discarded foundry sand, slag, concrete, tires and glass....