The Mission of the Better Environment and River Project is to "Develop the Bear River as a Natural and Culture Focal Point for the Community"

The Bear River Greenway originated in 1983 as the B.E.A.R. (Better River and Environment) Project to develop the Bear River as a natural and cultural focal point of the community. The Greenway is the result of a dynamic partnership between the B.E.A.R. Project, the City of Evanston, the Evanston Parks & Recreation District, and the Bear River State Park.