Native freshwater mussels, each capable of filtering ten to forty gallons of water daily, are vital to keeping our rivers healthy. But their losses-from overharvesting, damming, pollution, and warming waters-are legendary. "River Bellwethers," based on an essay from Dean's collection, Shelter and Storm: At Home in the Driftless, presents the fascinating stories of determined Wisconsinites who battled government officials, changed policy, and set new standards to protect native mussels. Their courage-and the enduring impact of citizen science-will inspire you.