The Fox River winds through Illinois and Wisconsin, shaping communities, ecosystems, and economies along its 200-mile journey. For decades, this waterway has been under pressure from pollution, development, and neglect. But for more than 30 years, one group has stood in its corner: Friends of the Fox River (FOTFR).

Watershed Warriors, a Rivers are Life film, shines a spotlight on two River Heroes at the helm of this movement: Gary Swick and Jenni Kempf. Together, they lead FOTFR’s mission to restore and protect the Fox through hands-on action and community education.

Each year, FOTFR mobilizes volunteers to pull tons of trash from the Fox River and its tributaries, transforming cleanup days into community-powered victories. But their work doesn’t stop at waste removal. Through field trips, outdoor classrooms, and student-led science projects, FOTFR introduces young people to their watershed in the most direct way possible: by getting their boots in the river.

Gary, a longtime educator, and Jenni, an outreach leader, understand that protecting the Fox isn’t just about ecology, it’s about connection. By inspiring new generations of river stewards, they ensure the fight for clean water doesn’t end with them.

Watershed Warriors isn’t just a local story. It’s a universal call: protecting rivers takes grit, community, and long-term commitment. The Fox River’s recovery proves that when people unite behind a watershed, transformation is possible.