Current Headlines

The first 100 to upload screenshots will receive free long-sleeved 'Harvest Hustle' shirts.

Joliet resident Michelle Wendling's photo of a misty morning at Hadley Valley Preserve snared the top spot in August’s portion of the Forest Preserve District’s Preserve the Moment photo contest. 

The Hammel Woods Dam, which was built in the 1930s, was removed to improve the health of the DuPage River and also to make the area safer for paddlers. The project also included a new kayak launch and the addition of large rocks in the water to create riffles. 

In a rare occurrence, a white-faced ibis was spotted at Whalon Lake over the weekend. 

The 'Don't be a Zombie! Be Prepared' exhibit will help you think about the unthinkable and plan for disasters so you don't wind up like a zombie. The exhibit runs through November 28. 

Forest Preserve District program attendees and facility visitors will be required to wear face masks, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status, starting Monday, August 30, per the new mask mandate from Gov. JB Pritzker. 

The popular "Woods Walk" hiking challenge began September 1 and runs through November 30. Hike seven of 10 trails to receive a medallion. 

The first organic farm license was awarded to Yunker Farms LLC for 147 acres in Jackson Creek Preserve. The addition of an organic farming license is part of a move to better protect the soil until the land can be restored to its native state.

Now that most of the birds born at the Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve site have left their nests, they are less likely to be disturbed by human visitors. The preserve is open 8 a.m. to sunset through February 28.

Joliet resident Rob Simpson grew tired of his short commute taking so long by car. So he ditched the vehicle and opted to bike to work on the DuPage River Trail. He said he's saving money on gas and feels healthier. 

With excessive heat and humidity this week, the Forest Preserve District is reminding dog owners to take precautions so their pets don't overheat. 

Byron Morgan's picture of the rising sun peeking through an oak tree's branches was the top pick by judges. Eight monthly finalists are being chosen from May through December, and those eight pics will vie for top contest honors in January.

The monthly nature show debuted in July 2020, airs live on Facebook and YouTube and is carried by local cable stations. The crew has endured frigid, hot and smoky outdoor filming sessions to bring the best of the Forest Preserve District to viewers, educating them and entertaining them along the way. 

Half-price permits are available for purchase online, by mail or in person at one of four visitor centers. The permits can be used at all six Forest Preserve District dog parks through the end of 2021.

Skim the treetops, glide over waterways and peek into nooks and crannies not visible from the ground as 'The Buzz' celebrates its one-year anniversary with an aerial extravaganza.