HORI Z ON S LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES
PRESERVATION, RESTOR ATION , EDUCATION AN D RECRE ATION
QUARTERLY
summer 2017
VOLUME 26, ISSUE 3
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On the cover: A sunny day at Lake Carina Forest Preserve (Grayslake). Local photographer Jeff Goldberg creates these mini planets by taking dozens of images in all directions then merging them into a single sphere-shaped image using specialized software. nearly
31,000 acres are
protected
by the lake county forest preserves .
LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES BOARD of COMMISSIONERS PRESIDENT
A MESSAGE from
Ann B. Maine, Lincolnshire VICE PRESIDENT
ANN B. MAINE PRESIDENT LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES
Linda Pedersen, Antioch TREASURER
S. Michael Rummel, Lake Forest ASSISTANT TREASURER
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves, our charitable partner. Ten years is a short amount of time in the scheme of things, but in this particular decade, gifts to the Preservation Foundation have helped extend and accelerate the work of your Lake County Forest Preserves — and it’s all thanks to you. Since 2007, the Preservation Foundation has raised over $12 million non-tax dollars in cash and in-kind support to advance our mission to preserve and restore natural habitat, and to provide opportunities for engagement with the land we all love. Countless people and other living creatures have benefited in big and small ways. Over the course of 10 years, your gifts to the Preservation Foundation have supported some very BIG initiatives: Science Explorers in Nature, a summer enrichment program that has graduated over 300 budding middle-school-aged naturalists; habitat restoration and public improvements at Grassy Lake Forest Preserve; the new Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County opening later this year; and the Green Youth Farm in Lake County, which provides high school students with paid work experience, and exposure to growing healthful foods. But sometimes it’s the SMALL things. In 2016, 135 donors gave over $16,000 to support the Blanding’s turtle in Lake County. Individuals who gave gifts of $120 or more became Turtle Champions. Our youngest donor was 5-year-old Anya, who gave her “life savings” of $21. Funds raised will allow us to hire two field technicians to extend our Blanding’s Turtle Recovery Program this summer. Your gifts help us accomplish vastly more than would be possible otherwise. Every single donation — from Anya’s $21 to the $1,085,000 gift from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation to protect 371 acres of wetland and prairie—helps make Lake County a healthy, resilient and engaging place to live.
Audrey Nixon, North Chicago Chuck Bartels, Mundelein Carol Calabresa, Libertyville Steve Carlson, Gurnee Mary Ross Cunningham, Waukegan Michael Danforth, Lake Barrington Bill Durkin, Waukegan Paul Frank, Highland Park Sandy Hart, Lake Bluff Diane Hewitt, Waukegan Aaron Lawlor, Vernon Hills Judy Martini, Fox Lake Sidney Mathias, Buffalo Grove Brent Paxton, Zion Craig Taylor, Lake Zurich Tom Weber, Lake Villa Jeff Werfel, Grayslake Terry Wilke, Round Lake Beach EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ty Kovach
HORIZONS
VOLUME 26, ISSUE 3 Summer 2017 EDITOR
Susan Hawkins, Horizons@LCFPD.org CONTRIBUTORS
Allison Frederick, Linda Carlstone PHOTOGRAPHY
Jeff Goldberg, Moises Norena, Kim Karpeles, Joyce Dever, Peter Schulz, Chip Williams, Christopher Binning, John Konstantaras, Bob Lee, Jess Smith, Phil Hauck, Chuck Ebert, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES HOTLINE: 847–968–3335 Horizons is the quarterly publication of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Subscriptions are free. To subscribe, unsubscribe or update your address, call the hotline or email Horizons@LCFPD.org. Subscribers may also receive mailings from the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Photo and videos are periodically taken of people participating in Forest Preserve District programs and activities. All persons registering for Forest Preserve District programs/activities or using Forest Preserve property thereby agree that any photo or video taken by the Forest Preserve District may be used by the District for promotional purposes including its website, promotional videos, brochures, fliers and other publications without additional, prior notice or permission and without compensation to the participant.
CONNECTING THE DOTS for NATURE
By developing a network of critical landscapes—a green infrastructure — everyone can work together to safeguard the resources and places that benefit wildlife, people, and the economy.
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W
hen people talk about infrastructure, they’re most often discussing highways, energy sources, and buildings. But there is more to it. Just as planners design networks of roads, organizations can design networks of open spaces and natural resources that connect communities and regions. The latter is what we call a “green infrastructure.� Green infrastructure has emerged as a term referring to a strategically planned and managed network of natural lands, working landscapes, and other open spaces that conserves ecosystem functions and provides associated benefits to human populations. In collaboration with local partners, including Citizens for Conservation and Lake Forest Open Lands Association, we have developed a mapping tool to identify interconnected systems of landscapes to preserve natural habitats and protect biodiversity. It will also help guide regional and local planning by agencies, corporations, and citizens of Lake County. This geographic information system (GIS) based model provides visual representation and guidance as we work toward our 100-year Vision for Lake County, including an assessment of zz potential large-scale woodland, wetland, and prairie wildlife habitat areas; zz 10,000-acre ecological complexes in and around Lake County; zz water resource capabilities and groundwater recharge areas; zz Lake Michigan ravine and lake plain habitat protection; and zz ecosystem services valuation in Lake County.
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Connections are Key
Core Areas The building blocks of the network are “core areas� that contain well-
The Lake County Green Infrastructure Model and Strategy uses landscapes as the primary organizing principle and was
functioning natural ecosystems that provide high-quality habitat for native plants and animals. An example of a core area is Wadsworth Savanna.
developed using a core-hub-corridor approach. Landscapes are a mosaic of ecosystems or land uses that possess common attributes, repeated across a large area. Landscapes provide the rationale for deciding which resources to include and connect within a green infrastructure network. Interconnected landscapes are resilient to change, enabling migration of species, genetic exchange, and adaptation.
Corridors
Hubs
Corridors are relatively linear
Hubs include one or more core areas
features, linking cores and hubs
combining landscape types in an
together and providing essential
effort to treat areas as contiguous
connectivity for movement of
blocks that include an array of
wildlife and refuge for species.
habitats. An example of a hub is
An example of a corridor is the
the collection of forest preserves
Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway.
in north-central Lake County.
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The Lake County Green Infrastructure Model and Strategy is a framework of the major landscape types in the county that will be used to identify conservation, recreation, and restoration opportunities.
Woodland and Forest Ecosystems
Prairie, Savanna, and Grassland Ecosystems
Wetland Ecosystems
Woodland/forest communities
Prairies and grasslands are both
The Chicago region has one of the
include landscapes dominated by
communities dominated by grasses
most diverse collections of wetlands
trees with an average canopy cover
on organic or mineral soils. Prairies
in North America, including a
of greater than 50 percent. These
once dominated the southern part
Ramsar Wetland of International
ecosystems once dominated much
of Lake County but now exist in
Importance that contains Spring
of Lake County. Within this class
small, isolated remnants. Some
Bluff Forest Preserve (Winthrop
there are four community types:
prairie types are considered
Harbor). Wetlands are communities
upland forest, floodplain forest,
globally imperiled.
that are inundated or saturated by
flatwoods, and woodlands. Of the forested communities, woodlands are of the highest conservation concern. Regionally, 17 percent of the original oak ecosystems remain, and these communities are highly variable across the region.
Savannas are wooded communities with a grassy ground cover and an average tree canopy of 10–50 percent. Savannas contain distinct plants and animals. Due to their degraded condition and global conservation significance, savannas
There are an estimated 25,000 acres
are one of the highest priorities for
that could be restored to woodland/
conservation in the region.
forest in Lake County.
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There are an estimated 23,000 acres that could be restored to prairie/ savanna/grassland in Lake County.
surface or groundwater for a large part of the year and support vegetation that is adapted to life in wet soil. Their vegetation, the amount of water they hold, and the chemistry of their soil and water define the different wetland types and functions. There are an estimated 59,000 acres that could be restored to wetland habitat in Lake County.
Making the Values of Nature Visible Ecosystem services are the collective benefits from an array of resources and processes that are supplied by nature. Forests, wetlands, prairies, water bodies, and other natural ecosystems support human existence. Only recently has it become possible to quantify and reliably estimate the contributions that green infrastructure makes available to human well-being, and to measure the benefits that nature provides us for free.
CARBON STORAGE The ability for natural
GROUNDWATER
systems to capture carbon
RECHARGE Maintains natural rates of
helps mitigate the emission of greenhouse gasses, such as carbon
groundwater recharge and aquifer
dioxide into the atmosphere, and
replenishment. Groundwater
thereby, helps reduce future climate
recharge is a key to adequate water
change.
supplies for people and wildlife, particularly for those municipalities that rely on groundwater aquifers NATIVE FLORA
for their drinking water supplies.
AND FAUNA
RECREATION
protect species diversity and
FLOOD CONTROL Maintains water flow stability and protects areas against flooding.
Infrastructure Vision. Our goal was to build a more refined model with higher resolution and up-to-date GIS data specific to Lake County. The model also builds on the efforts of The Conservation Fund and
other Illinois counties.
AND ECOTOURISM
maintain ecosystem functions and
REGULATION/
regional Chicago Wilderness Green
valuation in Lake County and six
and wildlife to thrive, which helps
WATER FLOW
Model and Strategy grew from the
Planning to assess ecosystem service
opportunities for native vegetation
humans.
The Lake County Green Infrastructure
Chicago Metropolitan Agency for
Natural systems provide
processes that benefit wildlife and
Working Together to Connect Open Spaces
Natural areas not only
In the near future, we will provide
provide a list of ecological services,
these computer models to local
they provide an array of recreational
groups to propel community
opportunities that contribute to our
conservation efforts. Green
quality of life. These include biking,
infrastructure planning includes
water sports, camping, fishing,
methods that buffer natural areas,
hiking, birdwatching, horseback
encourage infiltration of surface
riding, cross-country skiing, and
water, improve water quality, and
beyond.
expand native plant communities beyond the boundaries of
Natural systems are the least costly
designated natural areas.
and most efficient way to control flooding. WATER PURIFICATION AIR PURIFICATION Forests and urban trees can remove sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, and fine particles from the air, all of which can be harmful to humans.
Maintains water quality for human consumption, recreation, and aquatic life. Natural systems can be an effective way to reduce nonpoint source pollution, sediment, nutrients, bacteria, and
Interactive Story Maps Learn more about this strategy through our interactive story maps online at LCFPD.org/greenstrategy.
other pollutants from water supplies.
Balancing green and gray infrastructure develops sustainable communities. By creating a green infrastructure strategy, communities work together to preserve and connect open spaces, watersheds, wildlife habitat, forest preserves, and other critical landscapes.
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PRESERVENEWS SUMMER CAMPS
Select openings are still available. Our day camps are designed for summer fun and learning. Browse available camps. Enroll online at LCFPD.org/camps. HELP RESTORE NATURE
Spend a weekend morning restoring wildlife habitat. You’ll gather with other preservation-minded volunteers, and together you’ll make a real difference in the health and habitat of your forest preserves. NEW MIDDLEFORK SAVANNA TRAIL CONNECTION
We’re partnering with the City of Lake Forest and Lake Forest Academy to build a trail connection, which will link Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve (Lake Forest) to other local trails and parks. Project elements include a 221-foot steel pedestrian bridge over the Metra Railway with a scenic overlook, new 10-footwide paved trails, and a revised crosswalk at IL Route 60 to improve access to Townline Community Park. The project was made possible by generous donors, and a grant from the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Construction started this spring and should be complete by late fall 2017. For project updates, email Forest Preserve Landscape Architect, Michael Haug, at mhaug@LCFPD.org.
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No experience is required, just a willingness to help. Families and groups are welcome. Please RSVP so we can bring enough equipment for everyone. Workdays are a great way to be active, spend time outdoors, and make new friends. For details and workday schedule, see LCFPD.org/restoration.
MUSEUM MOVE UPDATE
Checking items off a “To Do” list is always satisfying, especially when the list is long: 99 Develop content outline 99 Order exhibit cases 99 Order life-sized reconstruction of a Dryptosaurus 99 Select wigwam teaching materials 99 Contract for animation development 99 Keep working on the “To Do” list We are moving conceptual drawings off our computer screens and into actual physical exhibition space. Former office walls have been demolished and are being replaced with new walls designed for exhibits. New carpeting, paint, and lighting designs are ready to showcase our collections. Featured stories have been selected and details of the exhibitions outlined. We are excited to be working with paleoartist Tyler Keillor, who will be creating a life-sized reconstruction of a Dryptosaurus dinosaur. We are also working with a member of the Pokagon Tribe of the Potawatomi to assist with artifact selection and content development for the exhibitions. Get updates at LCFPD/Museum.org. For a 2009 exhibit, Keillor built us this head. Now we’re getting the whole body.
BEYOND RIBBIT
Few sounds evoke summer in Lake County like the song of frogs. Listen for these late season breeders at a preserve near you. Grey treefrog (Hyla versicolor). Hearing birds singing at night? It may be the bird-like musical trill of this frog calling from the trees. Best bet: Van Patten Woods (Wadsworth), west of the river. Green frog (Rana clamitans). Listen at night near ponds and rivers for the sound of a loose banjo string being plucked once or twice. Best bet: preserves with ponds, such as Captain Daniel Wright Woods (Mettawa). Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). Some use the mnemonic “jug-o-rum” for this common, but non-native, species. We prefer to imagine Star Wars light sabers in action. Best bet: Des Plaines River Trail and adjacent forest preserves. To explore more of Lake County’s native plants and animals, visit LCFPD.org/lake-county-species. LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRES E RVES
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TOGETHER, ACHIEVING MORE FOR OUR FOREST PRESERVES.
The Preservation Foundation is the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Gifts of all sizes are meaningful and help support projects and initiate programs that may otherwise go unfunded or take many years to complete. Learn more at LCFPD.org/donate or call 847-968-3110. FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 10 YEARS
2017 marks the 10th anniversary of the Preservation Foundation. In our first decade, thousands of individuals, companies, and organizations have given gifts from $3 to more than $1 million. Every gift from every donor helps us do more. We’ll celebrate this milestone with a special event for our “first decade donors,” and we’ll also GATEWAYS GRANTS OPEN THE DOOR FOR SCHOOLS
As budgets shrink, field trips are increasingly out of reach for Lake County schools, especially in low-income communities. Since 1991, Gateways Grants have made field trips possible for tens of thousands of students. They benefit from “school” in outdoor and museum settings, where learning is experiential and profound.
host behind-the-scenes tours and gatherings to thank donors and inspire others to get involved.
Incorporated Feb. 20, 2007
$12 million+ raised
330% return on investment
ANNUAL FUND SPOTLIGHT Lake County Forest Preserve Ranger Police
School districts with a low-income population of 40 percent or more are eligible. Gateways Grants cover program fees and provide a bus stipend.
patrol 10 percent of the land in Lake County,
Donations fully fund this program. Your $100 gift provides the bus that brings students into our beautiful preserves. A $65 gift covers the cost of one program. Our goal is to raise $5,000 in Gateways Grants by the start of the school year. Help make field trips possible for Lake County students at LCFPD.org/donate.
and mental health challenges.
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making ours the second largest jurisdiction. In the course of their work, rangers often encounter people with emotional, cognitive, The Foundation’s Board of Directors recently approved a grant for Crisis Intervention Training to provide all full-time rangers with skills to deescalate interactions with people in crisis and connect them with health services. This specialized training will directly improve public safety in your forest preserves.
KIDS NATURE FUNFEST | 2–5 PM, SUNDAY, JUNE 4
Enjoy an afternoon of outdoor nature activities. Engage in fort building, insect netting, creative nature art, exploration, stewardship, crafts, and live animals. Fun for the whole family. The event is FREE. Adult supervision required. A Lake County Nature Network Event. For details: LCFPD.org/events. TAKE A HIKE TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH AND KNOWLEDGE OF NATURE
Hit the trails this summer and get active outdoors for your good health. We offer two unique hiking programs to help you get started. View other hiking programs at LCFPD.org/events. Rx for Health: Walking in Nature. We’ve teamed up with the Lake County Health Department and NorthShore University HealthSystem for this free walking program that brings together naturalists and physicians for guided tours of some of our most scenic preserves. See calendar for upcoming walks, or visit LCFPD.org/Rx-for-Health. Hike Lake County Challenge. Enjoy fall breezes and autumn colors while exploring designated “Hike Lake County” trails. Complete just seven of the hikes between August 15 and November 30 to earn a commemorative shield. For this year’s hike locations, visit LCFPD.org/HLC after August 10.
STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE
LCFPD.org/vision
We are one of very few forest preserve systems nationwide with a AAA bond rating, considered the gold standard in accounting and financial reporting. Ensuring public trust and confidence about our careful stewardship of your tax dollars is what drives the work of Steve Neaman, our Director of Finance, and members of his accounting and purchasing team. Steve and his team recently developed a 10-year rolling financial plan that is responsive to changing economic conditions. The plan is one of 13 strategic objectives to help us achieve our 100-year Vision for Lake County, and ensure our continued financial and organizational capacity well into the future. Details: LCFPD.org/vision.
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SUMMER CALENDAR Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated. For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration, visit LCFPD.org or call 847-968-3321. For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.
JUNE 3, 10, 17, 24 Forest Fitness Group fitness walks feature a new preserve each week.
Saturdays, 8–9 am, for weekly locations see LCFPD.org/FF. Adults. FREE. No registration required.
3, 10, 17, 24 Rookery Watch Join us for viewing of nesting herons, cormorants and other waterfowl. Supported by Lake County Audubon volunteers.
Saturdays, 8 am–12 pm, Almond Marsh. All ages. FREE. No registration required. Spotting scope and binoculars provided.
3 Walk with a Naturalist Discover the diversity of plant and animal life on this naturalist-guided walk. Explore a new preserve each month.
Saturday, 9–10:30 am, Pine Dunes. Adults. FREE. No registration required.
3 Help Us Map Herps Your observations can make valuable contributions on behalf of amphibians and reptiles. Join wildlife biologists and educators to learn how you can help reduce road mortality.
Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center. Adults, youth ages 16 and up. FREE.
7 Homeschool Companion: Springtime on the Farm Learn about the work done on early Lake County farms as you try out a variety of hands-on activities and tour the farm.
Wednesday, 10–11:30 am, Bonner Heritage Farm. Ages 5–12. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
8 Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home Public Tours Drop in to learn about this Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour his home, a National Historic Landmark, at your own pace.
Thursday, 12–4 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
13 Hikin’ Tykes: Rusty Patched Bumble Bee Learn with your preschooler about this priority animal species of Chicago Wilderness and how you can help them. Hands-on activities, craft and outdoor exploration.
Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Independence Grove Visitors Center. Children ages 2–4, with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 child nonresidents.
13 Cheese and Crackers with the Herons In partnership with Lake County Audubon, join our rookery volunteers to watch the herons settle in for the night. Light refreshments will be served.
Tuesday, 6–8 pm, Almond Marsh. All ages. FREE. No registration required. Spotting scope and binoculars provided.
14 Small Discoveries: Old Fashioned Picnic Enjoy an old fashioned picnic as you learn how to make ice cream, play outdoor games, and learn about Victorian picnics.
Wednesday, 10–11 am, Lakewood—Shelter C. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
16, 23, 30 Independence Grove Family Fun Fridays The beach at Independence Grove gets even better on Fridays with games, contests and prizes around a different theme each week.
Fridays, 11:30 am–2 pm, Independence Grove. All ages. FREE with beach admission. No registration required.
16 Bilingual (English/Spanish) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.
Friday, 6:30–7:30 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
16 Community Campfire Friday Nights Bring your friends and family to roast marshmallows, share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.
Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.
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Many plants used in preserve restoration get their start in our Native Seed Nursery at Rollins Savanna (Grayslake). Learn how you can get involved at LCFPD.org/volunteer.
JUNE (continued) 17 Scout Saturday: Insect Study Merit Badge Spend the afternoon collecting, observing and learning about Lake County insects as you work toward your Insect Study Merit Badge.
Saturday, 1–5 pm, Ryerson Woods—Classroom Cabins. Scouts ages 10–17. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.
17 Rx for Health: Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.
Saturday, 4–5:30 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
24 Wildflower Wonders Lake County is home to more than 600 species of wildflowers. Appreciate their beauty in a different preserve each month.
Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Rollins Savanna—Washington Street entrance. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
28 Little Sprouts: Planting a Seed Help plant the garden at Bonner Farm and sow seeds to take home. Learn how seeds sprout, and take a tour of the garden.
Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Forest Fitness Group fitness walks feature a new preserve each week.
Saturdays, 8–9 am, for weekly locations see LCFPD.org/FF. Adults. FREE. No registration required.
1 Walk with a Naturalist Discover the diversity of plant and animal life on this naturalist-guided walk. Explore a new preserve each month.
Saturday, 9–10:30 am, Middlefork Savanna. Adults. FREE. No registration required.
1 Fireflies by Firelight Join us for a fun-filled evening learning about these fascinating insects and how you can make your own yard a welcoming oasis for them.
Saturday, 8–10 pm, Ryerson Welcome Center. All ages. FREE. No registration required. Adult supervision required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.
6, 27 Family Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started. Valid IL Fishing License required for ages 16 and up.
Thursday, 6: 9–10:30 am, 27: 1–2:30 pm, Independence Grove— North Bay Pavilion. Families with children ages 5 and up. Adult supervision required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.
7, 14, 21, 28 Independence Grove Family Fun Fridays The beach at Independence Grove gets even better on Fridays with games, contests and prizes around a different theme each week.
Fridays, 11:30 am–2 pm, Independence Grove. All ages. FREE with beach admission. No registration required.
8, 9 Annual Civil War Days History comes to life at one of the largest reenactments in the Midwest, featuring battles, period demonstrations, kids’ activities and Civil War-era shopping. Saturday, 10 am–5 pm and Sunday, 9 am–3 pm, Lakewood. Daily: $10 adults, $5 youth (ages 4–17) and seniors (62 and up), 3 and under FREE. Weekend pass: $15, $7 youth and seniors. Purchase tickets online and save $1 on admission. View daily schedule, download coupon: LCFPD.org/civilwar.
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Be inspired by Lake County’s gospel voices at Gospelfest, Sunday, July 30, 3–7 pm. This annual favorite features choirs, solo performances and praise dancers that will bring you to your feet. Children can enjoy fun nature activities during the event. Greenbelt Cultural Center. All ages. FREE. Food available for purchase during event.
JULY (continued) 11 Hikin’ Tykes: Critters in Streams Learn with your preschooler about this priority animal species of Chicago Wilderness and how you can help them. Hands-on activities, craft and outdoor exploration.
Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Lake Carina. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
12 Little Sprouts—Watching it Grow Get your hands dirty in the garden and find out what plants need to grow and thrive.
Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
13, 20, 27 & AUGUST 3, 10 Wildlife Homes Discover with your little explorer the places animals make their homes. Hands-on nature activities include a hike, story, craft and interaction with live animals. July 13: Hives, Nests and Bees July 20: Lodges, Dens and Beavers July 27: Tunnels Underground and Salamanders
August 3: Wetlands and Turtles August 10: Tree Cavities and Woodpeckers
Thursdays, 9–11 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion. Children ages 4–5 with an adult. $5 adult/$2.50 child residents, $7 adult/$3.50 child nonresidents. 13 Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home Public Tours Drop in to learn about this Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour his home, a National Historic Landmark, at your own pace.
Thursday, 12–4 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
15 Rx for Health: Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.
Saturday, 4–5:30 pm, Old School—Trails parking lot. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
21 Community Campfire Friday Nights Bring your friends and family to roast marshmallows, share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.
Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.
22 Phenology and Photography Outdoor workshop for serious amateur photographers. Take advantage of sunset over the savanna and explore light painting after dark with cover photographer Jeff Goldberg.
Saturday, 6:30–9:30 pm, Rollins Savanna—Washington Street entrance. Adults, youth ages 16 and older. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.
28 Nature Open House: Hastings Lake Live animals, crafts and guided activities will introduce you to some of the creatures that call this preserve home.
Friday, 6–8 pm, Hastings Lake—Shelter A. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
29 Wildflower Wonders Lake County is home to more than 600 species of wildflowers. Appreciate their beauty in a different preserve each month.
Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Old School—Trails parking lot. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
AUGUST 1 Playdate with Nature Move your kids outdoors for unstructured seasonal play activities, proven healthful and beneficial.
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Tuesday, 9:30–11 am, Captain Daniel Wright Woods. Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.
Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated. For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration, visit LCFPD.org or call 847-968-3321. For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.
AUGUST (continued) 2 Little Sprouts: Eggcellent Adventures We’ll take a closer look at the inside of an egg and the cute creatures that hatch out.
Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
2 Tinkering Through Time: Floating Boats Hands-on activities develop STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) and critical thinking skills. Discover how history connects to science, nature, art and more.
Wednesday, 3–4 pm, Hastings Lake—Shelter A. Children ages 5–8, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
3 Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home Public Tours Drop in to learn about this Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour his home, a National Historic Landmark, at your own pace.
Thursday, 12–4 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
4 Independence Grove Family Fun Fridays The beach at Independence Grove gets even better on Fridays with games, contests and prizes around a different theme each week. Last Family Fun Friday of the season.
Fridays, 11:30 am–2 pm, Independence Grove. All ages. FREE with beach admission. No registration required.
4, 18 Community Campfire Friday Nights Bring your friends and family to roast marshmallows, share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.
Friday, 7–9 pm, Ryerson (Aug 4); Greenbelt Cultural Center (Aug 18). All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.
5, 12, 19, 26 Forest Fitness Group fitness walks feature a new preserve each week.
Saturdays, 8–9 am, for weekly locations see LCFPD.org/FF. Adults. FREE. No registration required.
5 Walk with a Naturalist Discover the diversity of plant and animal life on this naturalist-guided walk. Explore a new preserve each month.
Saturday, 9–10:30 am, Fort Hill Trail—Parking lot west on Gilmer Road and north of Route 176. Adults. FREE. No registration required.
8 Hikin’ Tykes: Smooth Green Snake Learn with your preschooler about this priority animal species of Chicago Wilderness and how you can help them. Hands-on activities, craft and outdoor exploration.
Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Old School—Shelter A. Children ages 2–4, with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 child nonresidents.
10 Family Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started. Valid IL Fishing License required for ages 16 and up.
Thursday, 1–2:30 pm, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion. Families with children ages 5 and up. Adult supervision required. No registration required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents.
12 Rx for Health: Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.
Saturday, 4–5:30 pm, Van Patten Woods—Shelter C parking lot. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
16 Summer Singing Insects Learn about the insects that make up our summer chorus, then head into the field to observe them in action.
Wednesday, 9:30–11 am, Heron Creek—Shelter A. All ages. Adult supervision required. $5 adult/$1 child residents, $7 adult/$2 child nonresidents.
16 Little Sprouts—Fresh from the Garden Pick fresh produce from the garden and make a healthful snack. Learn why fruits and veggies are so good for us.
Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.
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Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated. For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration, visit LCFPD.org or call 847-968-3321. For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.
AUGUST (continued) 19 Fred Fest A full line-up of live bands and kids activities throughout the day. All proceeds benefit the Preservation Foundation.
Saturday, 12–6 pm, Fox River—Shelter A. All ages. Buy tickets online at LCFPD.org/FredFest.
20, 27 Guided Hike Lake County Join us for a guided walk on this year’s Hike Lake County trails. Walk a new trail each session.
Sunday, 2–3:30 pm. For locations, see LCFPD.org/HLC. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
21 Solar Eclipse Viewing Party Drop in and join the fun as we experience the solar eclipse. This is the closest our region has been to the “path of totality” in more than 200 years!
Monday, 11:30 am–3 pm, Ryerson Welcome Center. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.
26 Wildflower Wonders Lake County is home to more than 600 species of wildflowers. Appreciate their beauty in a different preserve each month.
Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Sedge Meadow. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.
30 Little Sprouts: Mooing and Milking Learn to milk using our model cow, find out how milk is turned into dairy products and churn your own butter.
Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm. Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperone.
31 Trail Tales Trek Hike and read with your family along our new Trail Tales storybook panels, making stops on the way for interactive nature activities and explorations.
Thursday, 10–11 am, Ryerson Woods—Brushwood parking lot. Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network event.
SUMMER CONCERTS EVENTS IN THE PLAZA Independence Grove, Libertyville
Bring chairs and blankets for these Tuesday evening outdoor musical performances, beginning at 7:30 pm. To help offset our costs to host these concerts, there is an entrance fee of $6 per car after 5 pm on event nights. No rain dates. Café open until 9 pm. June 13 New Invaders Flash back to the 1960s as the New Invaders time travel to the unforgettable musical period carved out by British rock and roll.
July 11 Adam Ezra Group
Aug 1 Gizzae
Once again this dynamic acoustic roots/rock band from Boston will make a stop at Independence Grove.
This Chicago Reggae band plays a unique blend of Roots Reggae. The musicians hail from the four corners of the globe and have played with a vast array of talent, including Ziggy Marley and the Rolling Stones. If you like live jams and wicked solos, come dance the night away.
July 18 John Primer
This high-energy brass band plays an irresistible dance groove packed with funk, gypsy-punk and soul.
Step out of the suburbs (figuratively) and into a Chicago nightclub when two-time Grammy nominated artist and blues legend John Primer returns to our stage.
June 27 Rico
July 25 American English
Always a favorite, Rico’s hypnotic blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms is heavily influenced by the sound and spirit of Santana. It’s a fiery, soulful sound.
Hop on board for a magical musical tour driven by a band consistently rated the best Beatles tribute band of our time.
June 20 Black Masala
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August 8 Flat Cats Our concert series finishes on a high note with the Flat Cats playing swinging jazz and blues, contemporary classics, and timeless standards. These six Chicago musicians will help you bid farewell to summer in style.
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED After 54 years in the making, the final section of the Des Plaines River Trail was completed in late 2015. Last year, we asked you to celebrate it with us in a big way by traveling it start to finish, or by making a donation to support this Lake County treasure. We also asked you to become an ambassador for the trail by posting photos of your adventures on social media, and telling your friends and family about this valuable resource spanning the entire length of the county.
Here’s How It Played Out The 31.4-mile Challenge was completed in many forms. People biked, hiked, rode
THE CHALLENGE STATS
364 finishers
28 $3,315 donors
raised
horseback, and even paddled the river. Some took it all in one stride, and others pieced it together. Many others took the Challenge by making a donation to help support trail safety and maintenance.
“My wife and I consider
We enjoyed looking at the Selfie Stop photos, taken from the trail. We delighted reading the stories of your journey, written on the travel logs. We were so pleased that you shared your memories on social media. And, we were thrilled to receive an artistic celebration in the form of a watercolor painting (above) by Moises Norena (Libertyville), who also biked the trail.
Forest Preserves does
the Des Plaines River Trail the jewel of Lake County. We use it a lot. We’re thankful we live here and that the Lake County such a great job of acquiring and developing recreational land.” Randy Burt, Antioch
Whatever the mode of transit, the spirit was one of joy and appreciation. Your enthusiasm inspires our continued work to maintain and create great trails for Lake County.
Burt went above-and-beyond, riding 69 miles on the trail in a morning, one mile for each year he has been alive.
RAFFLE WINNERS
THANK YOU, RAFFLE DONORS
Abbe, Lake Forest | Antonio, Ingleside Brandy, Waukegan | Emma, Highland Park Gregory, Zion | Lisa, Grayslake
B & G Cyclery, Round Lake Beach Chris Cyclery, Libertyville Deerfield Cyclery, Deerfield George Garner Cyclery, Libertyville M&M Cyclery, Mundelein
Paul, Worth
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SPECIAL FACILITIES Directory GENERAL OFFICES
OPERATIONS AND PUBLIC SAFETY
1899 West Winchester Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048
19808 West Grand Avenue Lake Villa, Illinois 60046
847-367-6640 tel 847-367-6649 fax 847-968-3155 TDD
847-968-3411 tel (Operations) 847-968-3404 tel (Public Safety) 847-968-3116 fax
8 am –4:30 pm, Monday–Friday
6:30 am –3 pm, Monday–Friday
911 emergency 847–549–5200 nonemergency public safety issues
OUTDOOR RECREATION
EDUCATION
GOLF
LCFPD.org
INDEPENDENCE GROVE
RYERSON CONSERVATION AREA
THUNDERHAWK GOLF CLUB
16400 West Buckley Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048
21950 North Riverwoods Road Riverwoods, Illinois 60015
A Robert Trent Jones Jr. championship golf course
847–968–3499 Main 847–247–1111 Banquets, Meetings
847–968–3320
39700 North Lewis Avenue Beach Park, Illinois 60099
IndependenceGrove.org Visitors Center Hours 9 AM–4:30 PM, unless otherwise posted For beach, marina and café seasonal hours and fees visit our website. Parking Fee Lake County residents FREE Nonresidents $5 per car Monday–Thursday $10 per car Friday–Sunday and holidays Vehicle window stickers allow entry without stopping to verify residency. Fee is $5, available at the Visitors Center. FOX RIVER MARINA 28500 West Roberts Road Port Barrington, Illinois 60010 847–381–0669 FoxRiverMarina.org Boat Launch & Marina Hours For hours and fees visit our website.
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LCFPD.org/Ryerson Welcome Center Hours 9 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Saturday 11 AM–4 PM, Sundays Restroom only, Mondays
847–968–3100 847–968–3441 847–489–1931 847–968–3450
Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets
ThunderHawkGolfClub.org
GREENBELT CULTURAL CENTER
BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB
1215 Green Bay Road North Chicago, Illinois 60064
33600 North US Highway 45 Grayslake, Illinois 60030
847–968–3477
Office Hours
847–968–3100 847–968–3441 847–489–1931 847–247–1119
Open for events or by appointment.
BraeLochGolfClub.org
LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM
COUNTRYSIDE GOLF CLUB
Closed. Reopening in late 2017 at new Libertyville location. Call or visit our website for move updates.
20800 West Hawley Street Mundelein, Illinois 60060
GreenbeltCulturalCenter.org
847–968–3400 Main LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum.org
Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets
Prairie & Traditional Courses
847–968–3100 Tee Times 847–968–3441 Golf Gift Cards 847–489–1931 Golf Outings CountrysideGolfClub.org
LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES FOREST PRESERVE Entrance/Parking
Nearly 31,000 acres make up your Lake County Forest Preserves. Most preserves are open 6:30 a m –sunset, daily. If a preserve gate is open before 6:30 a m , the preserve is considered open for use. MAP CURRENT AS OF
Friday, April 28, 2017
FOREST PRESERVE EASEMENTS STATE LAND (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources) DES PLAINES RIVER TRAIL CASEY TRAIL PRAIRIE CROSSING TRAIL (L.C. Division of Transportation)
LCFPD.ORG GENERAL OFFICES and FUTURE HOME OF THE MUSEUM, LATE 2017
CANOE LAUNCH
OPERATIONS FACILITY
COMMUNITY GARDEN
MILLENNIUM TRAIL Planned Section
MIDDLEFORK GREENWAY Planned Section
FORT HILL TRAIL Planned (L.C. Division of Transportation)
M CCLORY TRAIL / NORTH SHORE PATH Planned (L.C. Division of Transportation)
CHAIN O’ LAKES BIKE PATH Planned (L.C. Division of Transportation)
DOG AREA
GRAND ILLINOIS TRAIL Planned (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources)
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LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES GENERAL OFFICES 1899 WEST WINCHESTER ROAD LIBERTYVILLE ILLINOIS 60048
PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY—
t
TIME- SENSITIVE MATERIAL
HORI Z ON S SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES HOTLINE: 847–968–3335 email : Horizons@LCFPD.org
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THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED USING 100% RECYCLED PAPER, ALLOWING US TO SAVE 58 MATURE TREES, 18,737 LBS GREENHOUSE GASES, 5,703 LBS SOLID WASTE
Wildlife in the preserves By early June, coyote pups begin to venture out of the den that has sheltered them since birth. In early summer, we often receive reports of sightings due to increased daytime activity. When dens are located near trails we install signs to inform trail users about coyote behavior and how to safely respond if a sighting occurs. Learn more at LCFPD.org/coyotes.
Eat healthful produce and support local youth when you shop at the Green Youth Farm of Lake County market,
CIVIL WAR DAYS
Wednesdays, 9 am–1 pm, from June 14–October 12. Purchase
History comes to life at the annual Civil War Days reenactment, featuring battles, demos, family activities, and Civil War-era shopping. See calendar for details or visit LCFPD.org/civilwar.
fresh and nutritious organic vegetables, herbs, honey, and more, grown in Greenbelt Forest Preserve (North Chicago) by area students. Learn more at LCFPD.org/greenbelt.
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◄ FLICKR PICK A female Baltimore oriole (Icterus galbula) perched on a tree in a wooded area. Posted by Robert Visconti via Flickr. Connect with us! For up-to-the-minute Forest Preserve news and events: Find us on Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, or YouTube @LCFPD. Download our mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store— search for “Lake County Forest Preserves.”