Our Mission

Anyone who has an interest or stake in the recreation, economic or environmental aspect of the Yahara River is encouraged to join! We look forward to meeting new friends. We seek volunteers who can donate their time, offer professional expertise or assist financially. Donating your time and providing your input are the most cherished donations. Thank you! 

Our main goal for this year is to increase membership. We have over 275 supporters on facebook but not even 1/4 of that number are current members. The attendance at our fall river clean-up was the best in years!  Our fishing clinics almost always fill! We're at Yahara Riverfest leading activities each year! But yet our membership numbers could be a lot better. Will you help us by joining? Membership is only $10!

As a member you will:

1. Support our mission of enhancing and protecting the quality of the Yahara River headwaters while educating the community and providing sustainable recreational opportunities. 
2. Play a vital role in supporting our fishing clinics and river clean-ups. 
3. Connect with a community who cares about your Yahara River. 
4. Receive personal invitations to our special events and fishing clinics. 
5. Receive quarterly email newsletters.

Date TBD, had to postpone due to terrible weather forecast (original date Saturday, May 20, 2017) 9:00 AM; Family Fishing Frenzy
Sunfish Pond, Windsor Rd, DeForest
DNR educated fish anglers will be demonstrating technique, and show you how to fish. Prizes will be awarded for biggest and smallest fish. Poles are provided.

Monday, June 5, 2017, 5:30 PM; Annual Meeting
DeForest Public Service Building, 205 DeForest St, DeForest
Join the Friends as we celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and elect new board members. Guest speaker will be announced closer to the date.

Saturday, September 9, 2017, 12:00 PM; Yahara Riverfest
Conservancy Commons Park, 6822 Yellowwood Lane, DeForest
We host a fishing clinic at Sunfish Pond and activities in Conservancy Commons Park (look for our tent). The event has many other fun, family friendly activities, stay all day to see everything.

Saturday, October 7, 2017, 9:00 AM; Annual River Clean-Up
Veteran's Memorial Park, 209 North Main St, DeForest
Help us clean the river of trash and woody debris. Meet at Veteran's Memorial Park and we'll split up to various locations. Attendees will be provided waders but are encouraged to bring warm clothes and good work gloves. A lunch will be provided for all volunteers.

Date TBD, had to postpone; Joint Meeting with Dane County Lakes and Watershed Commission
DeForest Area Public Library, 203 Library St, DeForest
We are hosting a joint meeting to discuss ways we can work together and help each other achieve similar priorities and goals. Open to the public, please attend to meet your local Friends group board and Dane County Board Members and appointed committee members who also care about local water quality.