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Join the 4th Annual Community Fish Migration Parade/Paddle! Be The Voice of Mish(kittacuck)sepe to
The Spring Migration Parade celebrates the Blackstone River and raises public awareness of our shared work to restore migratory species such as herring and shad by constructing a way for fish to get around the lowest four dams on the Blackstone River. This will create a sustainable population of migratory fish by allowing them to access key spawning habitat at Valley Falls Marsh - restoring a natural phenomenon that’s been absent on the river for over 200 years - critical not only for local ecology, but also community tourism, the economy, and a critical cultural connection for tribal communities.
This year, we’re bringing back the popular “paddling parade” from 2025! We’re working with the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council to provide kayaks, canoes and seats aboard the 40- passenger riverboat Explorer to leave from Central Falls Landing and explore Valley Falls Marsh. Learn more and register today to save your spot at blackstonecollaborative.org/events/parade2026.
Participants will be able to make their own fish hat, get their face painted, participate in a fish-themed craft, hear from local speakers on the importance of this work, and enjoy Indigenous-led drumming and flute playing. Then, we’ll paddle or take a boat ride together about 1 mile round trip from Central Falls Landing (15 Madeira Ave, Central Falls, RI 02863) to Valley Falls Marsh to explore the eventual spawning grounds for migratory fish.
We’re also excited to share that the Rhode Island Football Club will be joining us at the event! Stop by to meet their mascot Chip, learn more about upcoming matches, and connect with another organization investing in the region’s community and energy.
All are welcome! Registration is required to reserve a kayak or a seat on the Explorer, and we ask that you register to bring your own watercraft as well. Non-boaters are welcome to join and listen to the speakers and watch from shore. Light snacks will be available for all participants.
Organizing partners include Blackstone Watershed Collaborative, Save the Bay, Blackstone River Watershed Council/Friends of the Blackstone, Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Blackstone Heritage Corridor, and members of the Blackstone River Commons Project.
Event Links
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3622347-0
