Running through the city is the Mill Race Waterway; a man-made tributary extending from the Sugar River. Local citizens funded the hand-digging of this canal in the 1860's to provide water power for a mill, foundry, and 2nd in the state access to electricity! Today the Race and Sugar River are perfect for fishing, hiking, bicycling, tubing, kayaks, and canoes. This peaceful setting offers nature at its best for all to enjoy. In 2012 the "Embrace the Race" initiative was launched by local citizens. Currently going strong and gaining momentum is the "Pearl Island Recreational Corridor" development on the 180 acres between the river and the Race, a cooperative effort among the City, Chamber, and numerous civic organizations and private citizens.