Current Headlines

Join the self-paced challenge by completing seven of 10 designated trails to earn a collector's medal for your hat, backpack or walking stick. 

While feeding critters in the preserves has always been discouraged because it is harmful to the animals, it is now an ordinance violation to do so and violators will be ticketed. 

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards awarded the certification, which includes training that will help staff provide the best possible experience for guests who have autism and sensory sensitivities. 

One pedestrian bridge was installed in mid-August over the DuPage River and a second span is coming for Interstate 55 as work continues on a project along Black Road that will link the DuPage River Trail in Hammel Woods with the Rock Run Greenway Trail in Rock Run Preserve.

Preorders will be taken through November 13 and calendars filled with photogenic pups will be delivered in time for the holidays; each calendar sold will generate $10 for the Will County Humane Society.

A pair of American avocets were spotted Sunday morning at Whalon Lake, which is anything but a common sight in Will County.

The District has created a new slate of virtual learning programs as well as a new "Ask a Naturalist" option; both interactive offerings will be provided live.

Fledgling birds born at the rookery have aged enough to be able to fend for themselves, so the preserve access is now open for birdwatching and hiking.

With more and more bicyclists taking to the trails during the COVID-19 pandemic, it's imperative that everyone learn proper trail etiquette; announce your intent to pass, pass on the left and stay to the right when not passing. 

Late summer and fall are the time for hay bales to appear in the preserves during the annual harvest program the Forest Preserve District uses to keep woody and weedy plants at bay.

Paul Wenger is the third monthly winner so far this year, with five more months to go before all eight finalists compete for top Preserve the Moment contest honors in January 2021.

Path users should slow down or avoid the areas where "road mix" rock has been placed on the trails to repair low spots prior to limestone screenings being added. 

Vince Stellato is teaching his two sons to appreciate and absorb nature and to pick up litter on their frequent jaunts to Hammel Woods. 

Interpretive naturalist Suzy Lyttle took viewers on a nature exploration during the July 29 debut of "The Buzz," a new Forest Preserve show that will air monthly on Facebook, YouTube and local cable access stations. 

A new picnic shelter adjacent to the 80-acre Whalon Lake in Bolingbrook can host larger celebrations and gatherings at the popular preserve.