Current headlines

Spring into action with a Volunteer Morning program

3/21/2025
Volunteers work in the grass along a trail.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)

Celebrate 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.

Each event offers a hands-on way to improve the health of our natural spaces. Bring your enthusiasm and energy while enjoying time outdoors. Volunteers of all experience levels are welcome, and many of programs are suitable for those 10 years or older – perfect for families, individuals or community groups.

Space is limited, and registration is required. To get started, complete a waiver online. For information, contact Emily Kenny, Volunteer Services coordinator, at 815-722-7364 or [email protected].

Please wear clothes appropriate for the weather, getting dirty and being near a fire. The ground will be uneven and covered with vegetation. Long pants, sturdy shoes and socks covering the ankles are recommended. Bringing water and snacks is recommended.

Here are the second quarter Volunteer Morning Programs; each is from 9 a.m. to noon and for ages 10 or older unless otherwise noted: 

April

  • Saturday, April 5: Hickory Creek Preserve – LaPorte Road Access, Mokena, brush control.
  • Saturday, April 12: Joliet Junior College, Joliet, brush control.
  • Thursday, April 24: Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, Crete Township, fence removal; ages 16 or older.
  • Tuesday, April 29: Hadley Valley – Route 6 Access, Joliet, brush control.

May

  • Tuesday, May 6: Evans-Judge Preserve, Custer Township, brush control.
  • Sunday, May 11: Hickory Creek Preserve – LaPorte Road Access, Mokena, brush control.
  • Thursday, May 22: Lake Chaminwood Preserve, Channahon, brush control.
  • Saturday, May 31: Hickory Creek Preserve – Hickory Creek Junction, Frankfort Township, brush control.

June

  • Saturday, June 7: 8 to 11 a.m., Rock Run Rookery, Joliet – National Trails Day, brush control.
  • Thursday, June 12: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, Crete Township, seed collection; ages 8 or older.
  • Sunday, June 15: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., Rock Run Preserve – Black Road Access, Joliet, brush control.
  • Tuesday, June 24: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Kankakee Sands Preserve, Custer Township, seed collection; ages 8 or older.
  • Thursday, June 26: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., Riverview Farmstead Preserve, Naperville, invasive weed control.
Two people hauling branches and armfuls of brush.
(Photo by Chad Merda)
A person carrying loppers and cut brush while working alongside a paved trail.
(Photo by Chris Cheng)
Three work gloves set atop three sets of loppers propped up on the ground.
(Photo by Chad Merda)
A person handing a just removed plant to a person carrying an armful of cut vegetation while standing in a grassy area near water.
(Photo by Chris Cheng)
A man working on a chainsaw at the back of a pickup truck loading with gear.
(Photo by Chad Merda)
A person holding an armful of cut branches while three other people work on cutting brush in the background.
(Photo by Chad Merda)
A person throwing brush on a burn pile while a person works in the background.
(Photo by Chad Merda)

News

Volunteers needed for National Trails Day Cleanup on June 7

5/21/2025

Join the Forest Preserve District for a National Trails Day Cleanup from 10 a.m. to noon June 7 at Forked Creek Preserve – Ballou Road Access. Volunteers of all ages will help beautify the site, enjoy giveaways and refreshments, and have a chance to win hiking gear by taking a stewardship pledge.

‘Put Your Junk in the Trunk’ to prevent vehicle break-ins

5/20/2025

The Forest Preserve District has kicked off a 'Put Your Junk in the Trunk' campaign to help prevent vehicle burglaries in the preserves. The effort includes signage and a lighthearted music video that uses exaggerated props and humor to reinforce the importance of securing valuables before hitting the trails.