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Are you ready to enjoy outdoor nature programs again? If so, sign up for a small, in-person Forest Preserve program starting this month. If you want to stay in a bit longer, check out the Zoom webinars being offered online. 

The work will include pedestrian bridges over the DuPage River and Interstate 55, and a path connecting the DuPage River Trail in Hammel Woods with the Rock Run Greenway Trail in Rock Run Preserve.

The 2020 Preserve the Moment contest kicked off with more than 100 stunning photo entries taken in Will County forest preserves; seven more monthly winners will be chosen until the contest concludes December 31.

The online programs will focus on ponds, baby Blanding's turtles, herpetology and breakfast with the eagles. Just go online to watch the programs from your computer or smart device!

View the pollinator garden and landscaping at Isle a la Cache in Romeoville for inspiration and then use templates from the 'Paint by Numbers' website to create a natural landscape tailored to your yard's soil and sun conditions.

Seven sculptures created by artist Jennifer Meyer out of discarded items will be on display through March 31, 2021, along Snapper Pond Trail in Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve. 

Small-scale programs will begin in June and concessions will open at Monee Reservoir, but visitors centers, dog parks, latrines and water fountains will remain closed during phase three of the state's pandemic reopening plan and are not scheduled to reopen until phase four. 

It's a scene that plays out too often in the preserves and it's important to raise awareness of how deadly trash being left behind can be to wildlife.

Isle a la Cache preserve, a site steeped in history, will be getting some modern upgrades in the coming months to improve visitor experiences. 

Preserves and trails are open, but the Forest Preserve's new informational signs encourage everyone to spread COVID-19 prevention tips – not the germs. 

The dog park permit discount will be at least 20 percent and it will be applied to the purchase of 2021 passes when they go on sale November 1. 

The latest purchases will improve the quality of life for the District's residents and protect land for future generations, while contributing to clean air, clean water and habitat for wildlife. 

Forest Preserve police are reminding visitors to lock their vehicles and to leave valuables at home as they plan their 2020 nature outings. 

Elwood resident Jack Woodard took first place in the backyard nature photo contest; Matthew Valiga of Naperville and Maura Carlisle of Plainfield came in second and third, respectively.

Whether you are new to path use or a veteran trail user, slow down, announce your presence while passing on the left, stick close to home to avoid coming into contact with COVID-19 and use good judgment to keep yourself and others safe.