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A view of a restored tract of land.
Second wetland bank greenlit for restoration funding
3/24/2025The Forest Preserve District now has two wetland mitigation banks that will provide funding for restoration in two preserves. Farmers or developers who disturb wetlands elsewhere can buy credits in the banks to pay for wetland enhancements in Will County.
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A monarch butterfly on blazing star.
Isle a la Cache hosts buzz-worthy 'Pollination Investigation' exhibit
3/24/2025Smithsonian Gardens’ “Pollination Investigation” opens April 2 at Isle a la Cache Museum. The exhibit, which runs through June 22, highlights the crucial role pollinators play in our ecosystem.
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Volunteers work in the grass along a trail.
Spring into action with a Volunteer Morning program
3/21/2025Celebrate spring by giving back to nature and helping preserve local habitats. Join the Forest Preserve District for Volunteer Morning program opportunities throughout April, May, and June to make a positive impact on the environment.
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An image indicating a closure
Rock Run trail section, access area closed for improvements
3/20/2025The parking lot at Rock Run Preserve – Paul V. Nichols Access on Essington Road in Joliet and a portion of the Rock Run Greenway Trail are closed for an improvement project to repave and realign the trail. The closure is expected to last several months.
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A man and a woman pose for a photo outside a nature center with woods in the background.
Chapman named incoming executive director by Board
3/17/2025Deputy Director Tracy Chapman of Shorewood will be promoted to executive director in May when current Executive Director Ralph Schultz of Plainfield retires after 32 years with the Forest Preserve District.
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A girl holds a sled.
Be a Trailblazer prizes provide more ways for winners to enjoy nature
3/11/2025Cold weather didn't deter hundreds of people from joining the Forest Preserve's inaugural Be a Trailblazer experience. Around 900 participants completed 14,000 nature-themed missions to reap the benefits of being outside and qualify to win dozens of prizes.
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Image showing three digital newsletters
Stay up to date on Forest Preserve news by signing up for free digital newsletters
2/24/2025Subscribing to the Forest Preserve's free digital newsletters is easier than ever, and it's a great way to stay up to date on the District's news, features, events and programs.
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Trailblazer experience pushes pet owners to keep moving this winter
2/21/2025Instead of staying home during this cold snap and pulling the covers over their heads, dog owners are finding that the Forest Preserve's new Be a Trailblazer experience is a wonderful motivation to get outside to keep their dogs and themselves moving.
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Board members pose with a large check.
Nature Foundation’s $48,800 donation funds Forest Preserve’s conservation, education efforts
2/18/2025The Nature Foundation of Will County's latest donation to the Forest Preserve District helped fund conservation efforts at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, bus scholarships for field trips and the Smokey Bear painting exhibition on display at Forest Preserve visitors centers through March 2.
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A dead bird frozen in ice and snow.
Avoid sick or dead wildlife due to avian flu risk
2/3/2025Due to the detection of avian flu in Illinois, the Forest Preserve District is reminding visitors to refrain from touching or getting near dead or sick animals. Pets also should be kept from carcasses or feces and feathers of animals.
Events
Adopt a Native Plant: Part Sun
Join a naturalist to explore what makes your yard unique then adopt three native plants to grow your plant family.
Mother’s Day at Monee Reservoir
For your continuous dedication all year, Mom, this weekend is for you.
The Buzz
Indigo buntings shine brightly in summer skies
We see plenty of blue birds here in northern Illinois, but none as brilliantly blue as the indigo bunting.
Warblers in the woods are one of spring's spectacles
Spring is a busy time for birds — and birders — as wave after wave of birds arrives locally. Included in the seasonal arrivals are the warblers, a group of tiny birds that flock to our forests.