R is for Rivers and Lakes

Illinois rivers and lakes are important to the people in Illinois. They provide water for many purposes including drinking, traveling and power. Illinois has 275 rivers and 900 lakes. The Mississippi, the Ohio and the Wabash rivers help form the boundaries of the state. The Mississippi River runs along the western side of the state. It is the longest river in the United States. The Illinois River is the largest river inside the state.
 

• Illinois Rivers: This page contains facts and a coloring page.
• The Changing Illinois Environment - Streams and Rivers: This site describes the flow, fishing, pollution, physical changes, and wildlife in and around Illinois rivers.
• The Illinois River: This site describes the history of the Illinois River.
• The Changing Illinois Environment - Lakes and Reservoirs: This site describes water supply, fish and wildlife, pollution and erosion in Illinois lakes and reservoirs.
• Illinois RiverWatch Network: The Illinois RiverWatch is a volunteer monitoring program designed to monitor the quality of Illinois rivers.
• The Evergreen Project - Freshwater Ecosystems: This site is an excellent resource for learning about rivers, streams, lakes, ponds and wetlands.
• Illinois Rivers and Lakes Fact Sheets: This site has information on the different rivers in Illinois.
• The Chicago River: Explore and learn about the Chicago River at this site.
• The Des Plaines River: Explore and learn about the Des Plaines River at this site.
• The Calumet River: Explore and learn about the Calument River at this site.
• Fox River: Explore and learn about the Fox River at this site.