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Two men hold an award.
Sand Ridge Savanna restoration effort earns Chicago Wilderness award
1/19/2024Extensive, multiyear restoration efforts at the Forest Preserve District's Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve have earned an "Excellence in Ecological Restoration" award from Chicago Wilderness. The District received the award on Jan. 17 at a “Celebration of Conservation” banquet at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle.
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A woman in a wheelchair looks at an interpretive sign.
Four Rivers receives National Inclusion Project’s first-ever nature center accreditation
11/14/2023The National Inclusion Project’s first nature center accreditation in the country has been awarded to the Forest Preserve District’s Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon. Months in the making, the accreditation shows Four Rivers is a facility where all visitors, regardless of ability-level, can participate.
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A Forest Preserve bike repair station along a trail.
Two new bicycle repair stations installed along Forest Preserve trails
10/2/2023Need a wrench or an air pump while biking? No problem. The Forest Preserve District now has six bicycle repair stations along its trails thanks to funding by The Nature Foundation of Will County and the Joliet Bicycle Club.
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Kayak launch at lake.
Accessible kayak launch now open at Lake Chaminwood
9/14/2023The new kayak and canoe launch installed as part of preserve improvements at Lake Chaminwood Preserve this summer has been completed. The launch is accessible and adaptive, meaning there are features that help paddlers with disabilities enter and exit the water independently and safely.
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Aerial view of dam removal at Hammel Woods
When the river wall came down: Video chronicles Hammel Woods Dam removal
11/5/2021A video titled, "The Dam Project at Hammel Woods" is now available for viewing on the District's YouTube page. The video chronicles the dam removal process and explains why it was necessary and how it was done.
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Black dog at dog park
Keep your dogs safe during excessive heat and humidity
8/10/2021With excessive heat and humidity this week, the Forest Preserve District is reminding dog owners to take precautions so their pets don't overheat.
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Police and cyclist on trail
Follow safety guidelines for a safe preserve outing
6/18/2021Know which numbers to call and other safety practices before you visit a preserve or trail.
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Woman standing outside old barn
Largest property gift honors donor’s husband and family’s love of land
5/28/2021Lisbet "Beth" Temple of Flossmoor is donating 160 acres in Washington Township near Beecher to the Forest Preserve. The land was purchased by her husband, Dr. Arvid Temple, in 1965, and it was a place where the couple grew vegetables, raised animals and enjoyed nature and being together.
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Large dog running at dog park
How to have a successful dog park outing
5/7/2021Following the Forest Preserve District's rules and paying attention to advice from dog experts will help you have an enjoyable and safer experience. Know your dog, stay with your dog and pick up after your dog for the safety and benefit of all involved.
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Coyote in field
Use common sense when encountering coyotes during pupping season
4/29/2021Coyote pupping season is underway, so it's important to take steps to prevent potential conflicts.
Events
Osprey Watch
Join a naturalist at Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve for a leisurely morning walk as we keep an eye out for magnificent osprey.
Kayak Kollege
This beginner’s workshop, led by American Canoe Association certified instructors, introduces participants to the sport of kayaking.
The Buzz
Help wildlife beat the heat by leaving water out for them
What are you doing to beat the heat this summer? If you can, add leaving water out for wildlife to your list.
Booms in the night: Fireworks displays pose risks for wildlife
It's not just our pets who suffer around the Fourth of July. Loud, booming fireworks pose serious risks to wildlife too.
Quiz: Can you ace this bison test?
Here's your chance to test your knowledge of these amazing animals.