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All news
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Aerial view of Hadley Valley
Creating connections: trail enhancements in the works for 2022 and beyond
1/31/2022Read moreImprovements are coming to the Forest Preserve District's extensive trail system. Some of the work will take place this year, and other projects are part of long-range plans with multiple partners.
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Aerial view of Plum Valley Preserve
Lasting legacy: Forest Preserve grows by more than 1,500 acres
1/10/2022Read moreSome of the land was purchased, some donated and some was transferred from the state.
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Image of Compass newsletter
Renamed and refreshed: Compass newsletter will help you navigate nature
12/22/2021Read moreThe Forest Preserve District's newsletter, The Citizen, which debuted 40 years ago, has a new name, a refreshed look and a new mix of content that is designed to inform, entertain, inspire and educate readers. You can subscribe to The Compass with a click of a mouse to receive this weekly digital publication in your email inbox. Current subscribers to The Citizen do not need to sign up a second time to receive The Compass.
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Bald eagle soaring with nesting material
Are you seeing bald eagles in the preserves? Give them some space
12/14/2021Read moreIf you go eagle watching this year, remember to keep your distance so as not to disturb these amazing creatures. If a bird is reacting to you, then you are too close.
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Aerial view of dam removal at Hammel Woods
When the river wall came down: Video chronicles Hammel Woods Dam removal
11/5/2021Read moreA 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
8/10/2021Read moreWith 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
6/18/2021Read moreKnow 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
5/28/2021Read moreLisbet "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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Raccoons peeking out of tree
'Coexisting with Wildlife' section debuts on website
5/10/2021Read moreThe Forest Preserve's new online feature will help you find information on 16 creatures that you might encounter around your home, in your neighborhood or at a local preserve. The section features the benefits of each and also how to handle potential problems.
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Large dog running at dog park
How to have a successful dog park outing
5/7/2021Read moreFollowing 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.
Events
S’more Summer
There's plenty of summer left, so join us to learn about all the fun that can be had.
Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing
See the dazzling spectacle of nesting herons, egrets and cormorants at our weekly bird viewings at Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve.
The Buzz
What's the difference?: Honeybee vs. yellow jacket
The buzz of an insect in your ear can come from many different sources, from mosquitoes and flies to bees and wasps. When it's a bee or wasp buzzing by, two common culprits — honeybees and yellow jackets — can be cause for confusion.
Quiz: How much bee brainpower do you have?
Take this quiz to test your knowledge on these very important pollinators.
Quiz: Test your hummingbird braininess
While these bright and beautiful birds can be seen in our area, learn more about these miniature but mighty marvels.