River Appreciation Party 12/10/25 (Photos)

The St. Louis River Alliance would like to thank everyone who joined us for our River Appreciation Party. With your support our mission to restore, enhance, and connect poeple to the St. Louis River continues to be possible.

On Wednesday December 10th, the St. Louis River Alliance hosted our end of the year gathering to celebrate community, and honor the St. Louis River Estuary. We counted a little over 50 attendees who came to acknowledge a very fulfilling year.

The evening was held at the upstairs bar of Clyde Iron Works, where fellow river allies were greeted by SLRA staff, welcoming everyone in with a warm smile. All guests were given a raffle ticket for a Yakima Roof Rack, generously donated by Geoffrey Gates. St. Louis River Alliance memberships, merch, coloring sheets, and information were all available.

Executive Director, Kris Eilers shared the scope of our work accomplished in 2025 through a slideshow. Our 2025 events ranged from wild rice planting, water wednesday’s, community paddles, full moon/night sky gatherings, and even a navigation and trip planning class. Through these free events we reached 1,600+ people in the community, in 2025 alone. People were curious about what's next for the Alliance moving into 2026, and asked a few questions about the river, and manoomin before the raffle. Kris spoke on how we will be expanding our engagement work with the Wisconsin DNR, and continuing to promote the St. Louis River Estuary National Water Trail.

Shortly after the slideshow, Karen began cutting the cake for guests to enjoy before the anticipated raffle. Carlos won the roof rack, and was THRILLED. Geoffrey was able to talk through the details before they captured a photo with one another. Mikayla helped Carlos put the rack into his car, before ending the evening with SLRA staff and board packing up for the night. The energy in the room remained joyful, and was made up of meaningful conversations in every direction you looked.

This event aligns with the 2025 Annual SLRA Membership Drive where you can be entered to win a 12’ Pelican Kayak Package from Marine General. From now until December 31st if you become or renew your membership with the St. Louis River Alliance, make a tax-deductible donation to SLRA, or successfully refer a friend to become a member with SLRA you'll be entered into the drawing. **Multiple entries allowed for additional donations or referrals.