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Woman on a trail
Barb Parisi’s Happy Place: The healing powers of McKinley Woods
2/22/2019Read moreFor Barb Parisi, hiking and photographing birds at McKinley Woods helped heal the scar left by the suicide of her father, a Vietnam veteran who suffered mental and physical health issues for many years.
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Mother and son on a trail
Weber family's 'Happy Place': Hiking at Hammel Woods
12/28/2018Read moreAfter a health scare two years ago, the Webers cherish their nature outings now more than ever before.
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Aerial view of Braidwood Dunes
Army Corps, state contribute $591,000 for restoration efforts
11/27/2018Read moreThe infusion of funds will accelerate efforts to return forest preserve acreage to its natural state.
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Woodchuck mascot in the forest
Woodchuck mascot branches out with new website
11/16/2018Read moreKids of all ages can discover more about nature and the world around them by visiting willyswilderness.org.
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Dog walking on a trail
A primer for bringing your pooch to a preserve
5/18/2018Read moreFollow these rules to protect your dog and the preserves.
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Dead egret hanging from a branch
Heartbreaking egret photo another reminder of dangers of improperly disposed of fishing line
4/23/2018Read moreWe have an urgent plea for everyone: Please properly dispose of fishing line.
Events
Volunteer Morning: Messenger Woods Nature Preserve
Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in your community by attending one or more of the Forest Preserve’s volunteer mornings.
'Fluddles' Film Screening
Visit Four Rivers for a screening of 'Fluddles,' a documentary highlighting the importance of large temporary puddles providing habitat for many birds.
The Buzz
In May, meteors will be streaking across the night sky and Mercury will be visible
In May, make sure to make time to view the eta Aquariids meteor shower and see Mercury at its greatest western elongation.
If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em: How to cook with cicadas
Billions or even trillions of cicadas are about to emerge after about 17 years underground, and you may be wondering what will happen to the bounty of bugs. Many animals will feast on the bugs, and you can safely sample them too.
Meet the recreation coordinator: Em Wilcher wants to help you connect with nature
Meet Em Wilcher, the Forest Preserve District's recreation coordinator.