Help restore habitat for plants and wildlife at this historic forest preserve. Blue Star Woods was once the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp and a WWII Prisoner of War Camp. During that period, most of the site was converted to barracks and buildings. Since then, the camp has been demolished and nature has […]
Seed collection is a vital part of ecological restoration, bringing health and resilience to the landscapes. In addition, many studies show that spending time in nature reduces stress levels and has long-lasting health benefits. During the global pandemic, getting outside has become more important than ever. By collecting seeds, you can take care of yourself […]
Are you itching to do something hands-on in the fight against climate change? You’re not alone. Whether planting trees or saving a prairie, habitat restoration volunteers are out every weekend in the forest preserves - right here in Cook county - making a difference on climate change. And they're having a great time doing it. […]
The Skokie River and Middle Fork of the Chicago River come together to give Watersmeet Woods its name. But Watersmeet is also a wet place with numerous special types of wetlands that support rare plants and wildlife, including the only “calcareous seep” on the North Branch preserves. This seep environment is fed by cool groundwater […]
This site protects a large area of one of the rarest plant communities in Illinois, known as a Northern Flatwoods. Flatwoods are found where a dense layer of clay lies near the surface of the soil. This clay prevents rain from draining in the spring, although flatwoods can become very dry in the summer. Plants […]
Help restore habitat for plants and wildlife at this historic forest preserve. Blue Star Woods was once the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp and a WWII Prisoner of War Camp. During that period, most of the site was converted to barracks and buildings. Since then, the camp has been demolished and nature has […]
This site protects a large area of one of the rarest plant communities in Illinois, known as a Northern Flatwoods. Flatwoods are found where a dense layer of clay lies near the surface of the soil. This clay prevents rain from draining in the spring, although flatwoods can become very dry in the summer. Plants […]
Eggers Woods is a mosaic of wooded ridges where spring wildflowers thrive and narrow wetlands are filled with sedges, marsh grasses, and waterfowl. Help remove invasive species that threaten to crowd out native plants. Trained leaders will show you how to identify which plants to remove and demonstrate how to safely use hand tools. Masks […]
Help restore habitat for plants and wildlife at this historic forest preserve. Blue Star Woods was once the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp and a WWII Prisoner of War Camp. During that period, most of the site was converted to barracks and buildings. Since then, the camp has been demolished and nature has […]
Whistler Woods contains oak trees up to 300 years old, but invasive brush prevents their acorns from sprouting. Join a volunteer group that is cutting back invasives and improving the habitat at this preserve. Learn what it takes to restore health to our forest preserves and river system, by nurturing diverse wildlife, trees, and wildflowers. […]
The Skokie River and Middle Fork of the Chicago River come together to give Watersmeet Woods its name. But Watersmeet is also a wet place with numerous special types of wetlands that support rare plants and wildlife, including the only “calcareous seep” on the North Branch preserves. This seep environment is fed by cool groundwater […]
Help us remove woody invasive species that deplete the health of the soil, prevent native plants from thriving, and severely affect the health of the ecosystem they invade. Make sure to bring your own water; dress for the weather by wearing layers; wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and avoid synthetic materials; sturdy, closed-toe […]
