Museum Xtra takes you beyond the exhibits and into the hidden world of museums. Each program invites you to connect, learn, and be amazed by the wonders that shape our history and waterways!
Join us for Museum Xtra on Thursday, August 28th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Lower Dock to explore the hidden world of freshwater mussels—some of the most vital (and underappreciated!) creatures in our watersheds.
Discover how the River Museum, in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, is working to protect and restore these essential filter feeders that help keep our waterways clean. Get up close, ask questions, and see conservation in action!
Schedule:
- 6:10 PM - 6:20 PM: A brief educational talk about freshwater mussels, including their life cycle, their role, and ecological benefits.
- 6:30 PM: Arrive at the dock, pull up the SUPSYS (Submersible, Upwelling, System). Have one bucket of Higgens Eye, currently listed as endangered at both the state and federal levels, and five buckets of Plain pocketbook, which isn’t listed. Review water quality testing parameters, allow some guests to participate in gathering data, and give everyone a chance to measure some mussels. Also, a bucket will be set up with water for observation (watch their foot and potential movement).
- 7:40 PM - 8:00 PM: Questions and handwashing.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the incredible freshwater mussels that help maintain the health of our aquatic environments. Register today!