Conservation and rejuvenation of Mahoning River celebrated at Riverfest

Friends of the Mahoning River held its annual Riverfest on Saturday at Packard Park in Warren.

The family-friendly event brought awareness to the importance of maintaining and revitalizing the Mahoning River.

The fest was filled with a variety of local vendors and live music entertainment. Guests also had the opportunity to learn about the river's ecosystem through hands-on activities and compete in a kayak race.

"We are thrilled to bring the community together for another Riverfest to celebrate the Mahoning River and the ongoing efforts to restore and protect this vital waterway," said Gavin Switzer, Chair of Friends of the Mahoning River.

Though the organization hosts several events throughout the year, Switzer says the Riverfest is the biggest and most impactful of them all.

"We have events going on all year, but this is our Super Bowl. This is just to celebrate the river and show how it's an economic value for the region," said Switzer.