River Prairie Group at the Fair!

By Connie Schmidt

The River Prairie Group participated in the DuPage County Fair this year. We partnered up with the Conservation Foundation, DuPage Monarch Project, and Wild Ones to share literature at a table near the entrance. There was a lovely flower garden behind us prompting many discussions on the importance of native plantings for our local pollinator populations. 

In addition, each of these organizations and about 10 others created colorful planted pots sharing the message of each group. Ours had a “Three Sisters Garden” honoring the practice of our original people and their gardening techniques of growing corn, beans, and squash together, supporting each other with their nutrients and posturing in the container. It surely is symbolic of how all various species can and should lean in to add support and strength for each specie to survive and thrive.

The DuPage County Fair has a long history here in our county. On their website we learn:

“As one of the largest industries in Illinois, agriculture was the foundation for what is known today as the DuPage County Fair. Over 180 years ago when local farmers felt it was important to bring the community together, they decided to take turns hosting a fair. The gatherings promoted agriculture and farming and included livestock judging; judging of produce, flowers, grains, and baked goods; exhibits of new farming equipment; and various contests for the entire community to enjoy.

With the changing demographics in DuPage and surrounding counties, the fairgrounds have evolved over the years to not only host the annual DuPage County Fair, but to also provide a location where the community can gather throughout the year.”