Learn what's new for 2012 picnic permits, which are now available for purchase.
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The Forest Preserve is implementing its 2011-2012 deer culling program at eight preserves.
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Improvements are being made to the amenities at Messenger Woods, and picnic and camping permits will be unavailable until late May.
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A garlic mustard control project is taking place at Messenger Woods Nature Preserve and McKinley Woods in 2012.
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Messenger Woods Nature Preserve is one of Will County's oldest and most unusual forest preserves. The 444-acre preserve began with a 144-acre purchase in 1930, and visitors to the preserve can enjoy one of the few remaining forests in northeastern Illinois that has not been altered by grazing, cutting, farming, or development.
Messenger Woods Nature Preserve is known for its abundance of spring
wildflowers that carpet the forest floor. Watch the numerous nature
photographers perch over their cameras to capture the blue-eyed Mary,
showy trillium, wild geranium, and hepatica in bloom. The biggest
attraction is the Virginia bluebells; far more appear at Messenger Woods
over a few fleeting weeks in April and May than anywhere else in Will
County. Because of these sensitive natural resources, dogs are not
allowed in the preserve.