About us
A century preserved. A future protected.
For nearly 100 years, the Forest Preserve District of Will County has been dedicated to protecting the natural landscapes that define our region and enrich the lives of those who call it home. Established in 1927, the District was founded on a simple but powerful idea: preserve open space for the benefit of generations to come.
Today, that vision lives on across tens of thousands of acres of prairies, wetlands, woodlands and waterways. Forest preserves are places where nature thrives and people can explore, learn and recharge.
Our mission
To protect and enhance Will County’s natural and cultural resources for the benefit of current and future generations. The Forest Preserve District follows a set of guiding principles:
-
Staying true to our purpose
We protect what matters most, prioritizing land preservation and ecological health in every decision we make.
-
Being good stewards
We preserve, manage and restore significant natural and cultural resources to encourage a community-wide respect of nature and to support an environmental legacy.
-
Connecting people and nature
We provide multiple avenues for people to connect with nature and inspire changes in their daily lives that positively affect themselves, the environment and their community.
-
Focusing on wellness
We provide opportunities that are inclusive of everyone and that support their mental and physical health.
-
Working with others
We collaborate with residents, agencies and organizations to maximize the efficiency and collective impact of our services.
-
Promoting sustainability
We manage the Forest Preserve’s physical, financial and human resources to protect past investments and ensure future success in achieving our mission.
Leadership
Tracy Chapman
Executive Director
Chapman has served as executive director of the Forest Preserve District since May 2025, after more than 20 years with the District. A lifelong Will County resident, she began her career in 2004 with the Forest Preserve police department, becoming its first K9 handler in 2005 and later serving as Lieutenant, Chief of Police and Deputy Director/Public Safety Administrator. A graduate of the University of St. Francis and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, where she received the Franklin M. Kreml Leadership Award, Chapman is committed to strengthening community connections while ensuring the preserves remain safe, clean and restored.
Adam Oestmann
Deputy Director
Oestmann has served as deputy director since May 2025, bringing more than 23 years of experience in maintenance and operations. He has led key initiatives such as the Capital Maintenance Program (formerly the Infrastructure Maintenance and Replacement Program) and helped strengthen cross-department collaboration through the District’s Communication and Events Team. Adam has extensive training in supervision and community leadership and is pursuing a degree in Public Administration. A recipient of the Executive Director’s Distinguished Employee Award and the Values to Vision Award, he is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders.
Why Will County forest preserves matter
As Will County grows, open space becomes more valuable, and more vulnerable. Protecting land today ensures cleaner air and water, healthier ecosystems and accessible places where people can gather, explore and find balance in nature.
We believe nature is not just something to visit — it’s something to care for, learn from and be a part of.
Looking ahead
The next century of conservation will require ongoing collaboration, innovation and community support. By working together with residents, partners and volunteers, we will continue to protect what matters most and expand opportunities for everyone to experience the natural world.
About us
A century preserved. A future protected.
For nearly 100 years, the Forest Preserve District of Will County has been dedicated to protecting the natural landscapes that define our region and enrich the lives of those who call it home. Established in 1927, the District was founded on a simple but powerful idea: preserve open space for the benefit of generations to come.
Today, that vision lives on across tens of thousands of acres of prairies, wetlands, woodlands and waterways. Forest preserves are places where nature thrives and people can explore, learn and recharge.
Our mission
To protect and enhance Will County’s natural and cultural resources for the benefit of current and future generations. The Forest Preserve District follows a set of guiding principles:
-
Staying true to our purpose
We protect what matters most, prioritizing land preservation and ecological health in every decision we make.
-
Being good stewards
We preserve, manage and restore significant natural and cultural resources to encourage a community-wide respect of nature and to support an environmental legacy.
-
Connecting people and nature
We provide multiple avenues for people to connect with nature and inspire changes in their daily lives that positively affect themselves, the environment and their community.
-
Focusing on wellness
We provide opportunities that are inclusive of everyone and that support their mental and physical health.
-
Working with others
We collaborate with residents, agencies and organizations to maximize the efficiency and collective impact of our services.
-
Promoting sustainability
We manage the Forest Preserve’s physical, financial and human resources to protect past investments and ensure future success in achieving our mission.
Leadership
Tracy Chapman
Executive Director
Chapman has served as executive director of the Forest Preserve District since May 2025, after more than 20 years with the District. A lifelong Will County resident, she began her career in 2004 with the Forest Preserve police department, becoming its first K9 handler in 2005 and later serving as Lieutenant, Chief of Police and Deputy Director/Public Safety Administrator. A graduate of the University of St. Francis and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, where she received the Franklin M. Kreml Leadership Award, Chapman is committed to strengthening community connections while ensuring the preserves remain safe, clean and restored.
Adam Oestmann
Deputy Director
Oestmann has served as deputy director since May 2025, bringing more than 23 years of experience in maintenance and operations. He has led key initiatives such as the Capital Maintenance Program (formerly the Infrastructure Maintenance and Replacement Program) and helped strengthen cross-department collaboration through the District’s Communication and Events Team. Adam has extensive training in supervision and community leadership and is pursuing a degree in Public Administration. A recipient of the Executive Director’s Distinguished Employee Award and the Values to Vision Award, he is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders.
Why Will County forest preserves matter
As Will County grows, open space becomes more valuable, and more vulnerable. Protecting land today ensures cleaner air and water, healthier ecosystems and accessible places where people can gather, explore and find balance in nature.
We believe nature is not just something to visit — it’s something to care for, learn from and be a part of.
Looking ahead
The next century of conservation will require ongoing collaboration, innovation and community support. By working together with residents, partners and volunteers, we will continue to protect what matters most and expand opportunities for everyone to experience the natural world.