3rd annual Riverfest is Saturday

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Friends of the Mahoning River will host its third annual Riverfest from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at The B&O Station, 530 Mahoning Ave., and will offer kayak and canoe rides, exhibits, arts and crafts, refreshments and more.

The event aims to draw more people to enjoy the banks of the Mahoning River and build excitement for the waterway’s restoration.

The Friends of the Mahoning River expect positive news from the release of preliminary results of summer 2013 testing by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Fish quality and diversity in the river is the best it has been in 100 years, and water quality will continue to improve as dams are removed, the group says.

During Saturday’s event, Trumbull Canoe Trails will provide rides on the river.

Riverfest volunteers will provide activities and crafts for children, including educational and historical presentations and displays with a focus on the river and the environment.

Presenters includeAWARE (Alliance for Watershed Action and Resource Education), the Ohio EPA, Youngstown State University’s Re- Create, YESS and STEM student organizations, Mill Creek MetroParks, the Mahoning Soil and Water Conservation District, Eastgate Regional Council of Governments and the Mahoning County Green Team.

The Artists of the Rustbelt’s annual summer market inside B&O station will be open during Riverfest from 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday, and will continue noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

The Riverfest planning committee is still seeking sponsors to help offset expenses. Sponsors will be recognized for their efforts. For information about sponsorships, email mahoningriverfriends@gmail.com with an attention to the Riverfest Planning Committee.

The Friends of Mahoning River welcomes new members or support from local businesses.

The Friends meet the third Monday of every month, with meeting locations announced to members by email. Visit the Riverfest 2014 or Friends of Mahoning River Facebook pages for information.