ILLINOIS RIVER WATERSHED PARTNERSHIP

The Illinois River Watershed Partnership (IRWP) is a diverse group of men and women who directly affect the water quality of the Illinois River Watershed. Their mission is to improve the integrity of the Illinois River through public education and community outreach, water quality monitoring, and the implementation of conservation and restoration practices throughout the Illinois River Watershed. Learn more at irwp.org.

IRWP has been involved with the Siloam Springs Kayak Park since its inception. They have recently funded streambank restoration at the Kayak Park, and continue to work to improve visitor experience at the park.

IRWP will be leasing the Siloam Springs Kayak Park from May to September of 2023. During this time, IRWP Staff will process admission fees, oversee parking, manage trash, and clean restrooms on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the Summer.

IRWP believes that developing a respectful river recreation culture is an important part of engaging the community in water quality conservation. As NWA’s population grows, recreational use of the Illinois River will inevitably grow as well. To avoid degradation of this shared water resource, and to see river recreation managed in an effective way, IRWP seeks to foster a river recreation culture that:

• Incentivizes improved watershed management
• Respects streamside landowners
• Is family-oriented
• Embodies a strong conservation ethic
• Prioritizes safety
• Produces economic growth

See their Recreation Action Plan for more information.