RSVP for Flex Your Mussels on the Lower Chip

First, we'll warm up our muscles—quads, gluts, and hams—with a leisurely bike ride on the scenic Chippewa River State Trail, paralleling the Chippewa River, beginning at Caryville. Next, we'll meet up with an aquatic ecologist and expert in mussels—wartybacks, pocketbooks, and fatmuckets—with whom we'll cool down in the river while "pollywogging" to collect live mussel specimens for identification.

Once you experience these fascinating and ecologically-important river critters up close, you'll never look at them the same again. Along the way, we'll hear a success story from local community organizers on the close brush with nuclear and coal-fired power on the river.

We'll finish our ride on the Red Cedar State Trail, ending in Downsville. From there, thirsty from the pollywogging and peddling, we'll have the option of repairing to Lucette Brewing in Menomonie for a well-earned beverage and bite to eat.

Registrants must bring your own bike, swimming apparel or clothes that can get wet, sunscreen, towels, mask and snorkel (optional), and wading shoes (old tennis shoes or sandals). Potable water is available at the beginning and end of the ride, as are restrooms. A small amount of water will be available midway through the ride.

Lunch will be provided.

Participants are required to get own trail pass for $5. (Available day-of and on-site.)

Advance registration required.

Website: https://www.wisconsinrivers.org/events/display/item/flex-lower-chip

Contact: email - info@wisconsinrivers.org    phone - (608)257-2424