The History of NGRREC

NGRREC culminated from a vision of University of Illinois researchers and Lewis and Clark Community College officials. In 2000, they began planning the development of the center, and in 2002 a grant was awarded to make the vision a reality. 

Since its creation, NGRREC has been actively working to advance our knowledge of the environmental issues concerning the Mississippi River and other great rivers throughout the world. 

In its short existence the center has supported or led 12 environmental river research projects, ranging from the renewal of large floodplain rivers to the relationship between rivers and rural revitalization, and sponsored research totaling more than $285,000. 

NGRREC comprises a Board of Directors representing each of the partnering organizations and is supported by a number of affiliate organizations with representatives serving on an advisory board.