Time to Show Those Animals a Bit of Love at Dubuque’s River Museum

You don't have to go far in my library of articles to find some mention of the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, and there is a simple reason why: I love the place! For those of you who don't know, I'm kind of a nerd. My favorite days as a kid were spent absorbing numerous facts about the animals that live in the ocean, and being able to work with and experience those same creatures in person at the river museum has been amazing. Even better, I've been able to pass on those experiences to you and to my children, and now, you can actively pitch in as well!

Read More: New Exhibit Opens at National Mississippi River Museum in Dubuque

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The River Museum is currently hosting its River of Love Valentine’s Day campaign, and it’s just the kind of wholesome, community-focused fun that makes the Tri-State area proud. The initiative is simple: for just $5, you can send a Valentine to one of the museum’s four featured species. That's the North American River Otters, Blanding’s turtles, Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes, and the upside-down jellyfish. Each Valentine can include a short message, a name, or even a dedication to someone special, and they’ll be displayed at the museum through February 14th.

But it’s more than just a cute way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The funds raised go straight to the Living Collections Department, helping provide nutritious meals, enrichment activities, and habitat improvements for the animals all year long. And let’s be honest, we Midwesterners love an opportunity to give back, especially when it involves animals and conservation in our backyard.

“While these animals may not be in love in the human sense, River of Love gives us an opportunity to highlight a few of the animals that our staff are actively working to propagate. Conservation is one of the four core themes of our Interpretive Master Plan, and saving species is at the heart of what we do. Each of these four species is an important part of the river ecosystem or is impacted by it. Breeding efforts for each of these species can be supported by community members like you, simply by joining the campaign or visiting the River Museum. Show these critters some love this Valentine’s Day!”

-Andy Allison, Vice President of Living Collections

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Last year, the campaign brought in $1,600, and this year, the hope of raising more is real, with a goal of 250 Valentine's sent! No matter where you live in the Tri-State area, joining the River of Love campaign is a small gesture that can help make a big impact. Heck, you could make an even bigger splash with a custom donation if you’re feeling generous.

"The River of Love has become a fun annual tradition engaging the community during the Valentine season. Sending a Valentine is a lighthearted way to show love for the animals, but the support behind it is essential. As a nonprofit organization, donor support plays a critical role in helping us care for the animals year-round, from enrichment activities to specialized diets and critical habitat improvements.”

-Corrine Kroger, Vice President of Development

So this Valentine’s Day, let’s show some love to the creatures that make the Mississippi River and its tributaries such a unique and vital part of our region. Swing by the museum, send a Valentine online, or just spread the word (sharing is caring, of course). Either way, you’re helping keep the river museum thriving and giving these amazing animals the care they deserve.

Check Out These Past Exhibits Found at the National Mississippi River Museum!