Lake sturgeon have returned to spawn in the Milwaukee River for the first time in decades …

A major milestone has been reached: lake sturgeon have returned to spawn in the Milwaukee River for the first time in decades…a direct indicator that water quality, habitat connectivity, and river conditions are improving in meaningful ways.

Heartland facilitated restoring the area following fish passage construction, the team helped to reestablish a wetland-prairie system along a critical stretch of river corridor. Just as importantly, this effort supported the larger goal of reconnecting upstream spawning and feeding habitats by complementing the newly constructed fish passage. The restored site not only strengthens ecological function but also enhances an accessible, highly visible urban greenway, helping build public awareness and support for river restoration.

This kind of coordinated, detail-oriented, restoration work is exactly what makes broader ecosystem recovery possible. The return of sturgeon is a powerful reminder that these efforts matter and that the cumulative impact of projects like this is real.

Photo: Restoration Crew Lead, Juliana Vollmer, treats dame's rocket on the edge of the restored area.
Write up & Photo complements of Jenny Grimes

Restoration Crew Lead, Juliana Vollmer, treats dame's rocket on the edge of the restored area.