Horizons quarterly // winter 2020 by Lake County Forest Preserve District

HORI Z ON S QUARTERLY

winter 2020 VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1

On the cover: A cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) enjoys a winter-wrinkled crabapple. Planting native shrubs like prairie crabapple (Malus ioensis) and pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) helps backyard bird visitors during cold months. nearly

31,000 acres are

protected by the lake county forest preserves .

A MESSAGE from ANGELO D. KYLE PRESIDENT LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES AKYLE@LAKECOUNTYIL.GOV

BOARD of COMMISSIONERS PRESIDENT

Angelo D. Kyle, Waukegan VICE PRESIDENT

John Wasik, Grayslake TREASURER

Paul Frank, Highland Park ASSISTANT TREASURER

Craig Taylor, Lake Zurich

As I write these lines, the 2020 election season has just concluded. While I myself was not up for election this year, I am passing a milestone—the conclusion of a two-year term as President of the Lake County Forest Preserves. That’s not where I started my journey though. I came onto the Board of Commissioners in December 1990. Or as my daughter would say, “…way back in the 1900s!” In December 1990 when I was elected a commissioner for District 14 (North Chicago), the Lake County Forest Preserves protected 16,676 acres in 39 sites. Today, they protect nearly 31,000 acres in 64 sites. That increase in public open space represents an impressive growth in the quality of life for humans, plants and animals. We know that Lake County citizens appreciate their forest preserves. A countywide survey conducted last fall revealed an esteem rating of 88% (72% positive; 17% neutral), the highest survey rating of any local government in Lake County. So, it’s not just having land, but restoring it and providing access to it that is meaningful to people. This year, we worked hard to craft an update to our 100-Year Vision and Strategic Plan for Lake County, called the Road Map to 2025. This 5-year plan will keep us on track in our service to the public. In it, four overarching objectives emerged: stewardship of healthy landscapes, to protect and restore ecological habitats and services; strengthening of connections with the public, to extend access to resources and broaden awareness of our brand; insurance of economic stability to provide a clear pathway to long-term sustainability; and, a commitment to organizational excellence. I feel honored to have taken part in developing a road map for the future. Thank you for trusting us with this precious open land we share. Thank you for demonstrating your trust in our stewardship with strong esteem ratings. I invite you to actively join with me in caring for and using your forest preserves—by volunteering your time, by giving a gift to the Preservation Foundation to extend and accelerate our work, or simply by taking a walk in one to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us in every season.

Marah Altenberg, Buffalo Grove Dick Barr, Round Lake Beach Carissa Casbon, Lake Villa Jennifer Clark, Libertyville Mary Ross Cunningham, Waukegan Michael Danforth, Fox River Grove Bill Durkin, Waukegan Sandy Hart, Lake Bluff Diane Hewitt, Waukegan Ann B. Maine, Lincolnshire Judy Martini, Round Lake Paras Parekh, Highland Park Linda Pedersen, Antioch Gina Roberts, Beach Park Julie Simpson, Vernon Hills Jessica Vealitzek, Hawthorn Woods Terry Wilke, Round Lake Beach EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ty Kovach

HORIZONS

VOLUME 30, ISSUE 1 Winter 2020 EDITOR

Susan Hawkins, Horizons@LCFPD.org DESIGN

Jeanna Cristino CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS

Brett Peto, Kim Mikus Croke, Rebekah Snyder PHOTOGRAPHY

Andy Raupp (cover), Jeff Goldberg, Nat Carmichael, Robert Visconti, John Weinstein, Kimberly Kingen, Eileen Davis, Bob Callebert, Tamima Itani, Allison Frederick, Phil Hauck, Brian Plunkett, Dahai Z, Egon Schein, Hey and Associates, Inc. SUBSCRIBE, UNSUBSCRIBE, UPDATE ADDRESS: 847–968–3335 | Horizons@LCFPD.org

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.

OUR PROGRESS & PROMISE TO ERADICATE BUCKTHORN

ROUTE 176

Since 2015, Middlefork Savanna (Lake Forest) has been at the center of a battle map. The map is a rectangle of satellite imagery overlaid with red and green shapes. There are no military units or movements. It shows an advancement of a different sort: the ever-increasing effort to eradicate the invasive species European buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) from the preserve and a 2,900-acre area around it. Bounded by I-94 and Routes 176, 43 and 60, this area contains Middlefork and about 700 public and private properties. Homes, businesses, churches, schools, a golf course, and the Chicago Bears team

I-9 4

ROUTE 43

headquarters all stand within its borders. MIDDLEFORK SAVANNA

For five years, Restoration Ecologist Matt Ueltzen and Assistant Public Affairs Manager Allison Frederick have worked to include these landowners in a largescale push to eradicate buckthorn locally. Called the Buckthorn Eradication Pilot Project, this program has cleared 112 acres of the pervasive invasive, mainly within Middlefork. These are the green areas on the map. But an estimated 528 privately owned acres still contain buckthorn. Those areas are striped in red.

PILOT PROJECT BOUNDARY CLEARED OF BUCKTHORN

ROUTE 60

NOT CLEARED OF BUCKTHORN

PRESERVE ENTRANCE

TRAIL

PRESERVE AREA

WATER

Buckthorn is an invasive large shrub or small tree. Introduced to North America in the 1800s as an ornamental shrub and hedgerow, it soon escaped into natural areas and spread quickly. By the early 1900s, buckthorn had infiltrated much of the Midwestern and Northeastern U.S. Middlefork is 687 acres of green wonder. The majority has been dedicated as Illinois Nature Preserve or Nature Preserve buffer. The preserve contains many habitats: rare tallgrass savanna, oak savanna and woodlands, wet and mesic prairies, sedge meadows and marshes. A 25-acre parcel of tallgrass savanna here is one of the highest-quality

examples of its kind in the nation and is recognized as a globally threatened ecosystem. Threading through it all is the Middle Fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River, a calm body of water that flows alongside the 4-mile, northsouth Middlefork Trail. While it may be at the map’s center, Middlefork isn’t alone. Several conservation easements, plus areas managed by other agencies, contribute to an 800acre mosaic of protected lands.

Brett Peto met with landowners for a focus group. “We heard people weren’t necessarily aware we were trying to do this program, and that we need to increase our public outreach,” Ueltzen said. “Residents suggested telling compelling stories and promoting victories, such as more acreage cleared or new collaborations made, as they happen.” To that end, Public Affairs staff are planning a publicity campaign in 2021. According to Peto, it will feature increased press coverage, direct communication with landowners, and fresh resources such as “an herbicide quick-start guide” and a new yard sign. The campaign is supported by a grant from the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. “We’ve gone a long way toward building the resources the whole region needs, but there are a few we know our supporters would like to see,” Frederick said. “The yard signs will be a conversation

In December 2019, Ueltzen,

starter and let people shout their

Frederick and Environmental

personal successes.”

Communications Specialist

Because buckthorn spreads across property lines and reinvades cleared habitats, we cannot focus solely on public lands. It’s crucial to engage surrounding communities and inspire action. Buckthorn doesn’t know whether it is growing in Middlefork—or in the middle of a backyard. Nor does it care.

Buckthorn leaves are oval- or egg-shaped and grow in a subopposite pattern.

2 HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

This winter, we’ll also test a new

from ephemeral spring wildflowers

According to a 2010 tree census

incentive to take out buckthorn.

to young oak seedlings. It also stunts

conducted by the U.S. Forest

A 50/50 cost-share program,

the growth of other organisms by

Service and The Morton Arboretum,

supported by a $171,146 grant

releasing a chemical called emodin

buckthorn accounts for 41% of Lake

from the National Fish and Wildlife

from every part of the plant.

County’s trees. The second-place

Foundation Chi-Cal Rivers Fund, will assist several selected landowners in removing buckthorn and replacing it with beneficial native plants.

Buckthorn affects wildlife, too. Its glossy black fruits have a diuretic, or laxative, effect on birds that eat them, so they offer little to no nutrition and are expelled sooner than other

Ueltzen notes the cost-share

berries. This brings buckthorn seeds

program is a pilot itself. “Our duties

to new places faster.

are to put together a bid packet, send it to landscaping firms and determine who is the lowest responsible bidder. Landowners are responsible for 50% of the project cost. Grant funds will cover the remainder,” he said. THE BULLY OF THE FOREST Why does buckthorn deserve so much attention, though?

Buckthorn leaves are high in nitrogen, as well. When they fall, they decompose swiftly, changing nitrogen and pH levels in the soil. Over time, this leads to bare ground and increases the likelihood of erosion, which exposes the roots of any native plants that remain. The results of these cascading effects are wide, deep, expanding

“It’s exotic, invasive and transform-

thickets of buckthorn—and not

ing our landscapes,” Ueltzen said.

much else. “For an agency trying

“Other invasive species enter

to perpetuate healthy natural areas,

natural areas but don’t exclude

it’s critical we chuck the buck,”

native plants or disrupt ecosystems

Frederick said.

as much as buckthorn does.”

species, green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), lags at 5%. The county’s beloved oaks don’t appear on the list until the seventh and tenth positions, an indicator of an alarming shift in local forest composition. To help reduce the prevalence of buckthorn, we have cleared it from 3,471 acres in 27 preserves countywide since 2014. Additional removal efforts, including forestry mowing and herbicide control, have occurred on 1,851 acres in 26 preserves during that time through our Small Invasive Trees and Shrubs program. Further clearing, which is most effective during winter due to buckthorn’s seasonal growth patterns and reduced disturbance of the frozen ground, will take place on 110 acres across Grant Woods (Ingleside) and Cahokia

BEYOND THE BOUNDARIES

Flatwoods (Riverwoods) in late

As it grows densely, buckthorn

Buckthorn populations aren’t found

2020 and early 2021.

deprives native plants of sunlight,

only in the vicinity of Middlefork.

41%

OF TREES IN LAKE COUNTY ARE BUCKTHORN

112

ACRES CLEARED OF BUCKTHORN WITHIN PILOT PROJECT AREA

3,47 1

ACRES CLEARED OF BUCKTHORN IN 27 PRESERVES

PHOTOS >> 1. Rare, high-quality habitats are found in Middlefork Savanna. The Middle Fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River runs through the preserve. 2. Buckthorn is an invasive large shrub or small tree that was introduced in North America as a hedgerow. 3. Buckthorn deprives native plants of sunlight. 4. Spread by their fruit, buckthorn seeds remain viable in the soil for two to six years. The fruit provides little to no nutrition to wildlife. 5. Buckthorn reduces native plant diversity and abundance, often leading to bare soil conditions. 6. Volunteers help remove buckthorn during a restoration workday.

The physical removal of buckthorn

Educator Eileen Davis. Audiences

species of hawthorn (Crataegus

—the best method of which involves

have included garden clubs, home-

spp.) and American hazelnut

cutting the main stem a few inches

owners associations, public libraries,

(Corylus americana).

above the ground and wick-applying

park districts, and senior groups.

Frederick suggested wild black

herbicide to the stumps—is one

currant (Ribes americanum), witch

challenge. So is educating the

hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) and

public on why buckthorn should

be removed in the first place. That’s one job of our Education

butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa). “Witch hazel is a favorite of mine,” she said. “It blooms in December!

Department. Since 2018, Envi-

“ I love creating healthy

ronmental Educator Mark Hurley has conducted 29 sessions of our

landscapes. When I use

Habitat Heroes program with 714

native plants, I know they

students at preserves around the county. Designed for grades 4–8,

are adapted to the climate

students learn the effects of non-

conditions in our area.

native plants on local biodiversity.

Once they’re established,

“They’re surprised to see the thick stands of buckthorn,” Hurley said. “I’ll put a group of students right in the middle of one, where you can

I don’t have to worry too much about them. I spend less time watering and

barely see them, and take a photo.

mowing, and more time

Then we’ll take another photo after

enjoying the garden.

60 to 90 minutes of clearing. They can see the work they’ve done and

”

EILEEN DAVIS, ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATOR

the difference they’ve made.”

It’s a beautiful shrub and versatile for yards.” See page 5 for native landscaping tips and tricks. Book a virtual group program at LCFPD.org/education.

Wherever you live, you can join the buckthorn eradication movement. Volunteer workdays are occurring at various preserves and our Native Seed Nursery (Grayslake) with size restrictions and CDC guidelines in effect. Visit LCFPD.org/volunteer to submit an application form.

Digital resources are available at

LCFPD.org/buckthorn. You’ll find an informative TEDx talk,

For adults, our native landscaping

Our staff may prefer different shrub

programs provide tried-and-true techniques, recommended replacement plants and encouragement.

species, but all agree that native plants are the best replacements if you’ve said bye-bye to buckthorn.

Over the last two years, we have conducted 17 sessions with 405

Ueltzen recommended wild plum

participants, said Environmental

(Prunus americana), any native

buckthorn identification and native landscaping info, a video demonstrating how to properly plant a tree, and more. Email questions to our experts at

HealthyHedges@LCFPD.org.

PHOTOS >> 7. Cut buckthorn stems a few inches above the ground and immediately wick-apply herbicide to prevent the stump from resprouting. Commercially available herbicides such as triclopyr and glyphosate are usually effective. 8. Student volunteers pose in a buckthorn thicket after visible progress is made. 9. Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) attracts species such as the monarch (Danaus plexippus). 10. Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a native shrub replacement for buckthorn. 11. Over time, you can remove buckthorn and turn your yard into an oasis for native plants and wildlife.

Unpacking Native Landscaping

Compared to non-native ornamentals, native plants are hardier, less expensive, easier to maintain, and supply more resources to wildlife. They’ve adapted over millennia to the unique habitats of northern Illinois.

11 10

Eileen Davis, Environmental Educator

It can sometimes feel daunting, though, to start native landscaping if you have limited experience working with local species. Take some tips and tricks from Davis, who’s cultivated them in her yard for 18 years.

start with the basics

the plants you your neighbors use native F Identify F Do already have in your yard. plants in their yard? What do you like about them? native plants found F Research What would you do differently? in your area. Take a walk Might they share seeds or in the preserves and observe what’s growing. Do any plants catch your eye? Where are they found—in an open, sunny field, or in shady woods? What time of year are they blooming?

delve into design your property. Use F Study graph paper to make a map

to scale. Do any areas hold water after a heavy rain? What parts get full sun (six hours or more per day) for most of the growing season? Which portions are shadier (four hours or fewer of sun per day)? Decide if you want to use native plants in a traditional, manicured way or in a naturalized form like you would see in the preserves.

plant some roots

F F

divide plants? Remove all non-native invasive species. Test your soil conditions. This will help you identify which plants will do best.

around existing structures. F Plan Install paths, stone walls

F F

and pavers before plants. Design for blooms throughout the growing season. Remember to add fall bloomers such as asters and goldenrods, which are great sources of fuel for migrating butterflies. Advertise and humanize. Make your garden look intentional with pathways, bird baths, benches or a sign reading Garden” or “Butterfly “Native Garden.”

taller plants in back, hesitate to move plants F Place F Don’t shorter plants in front. around. You will know if a location suits them F Plant in odd-numbered groups. particular by how well they grow. Listen to them. plants space to grow. F Give Check maximum height and your garden in spring F Plant width for each species. or fall. Avoid summer heat. Native plants Shown on pageS 4‑5: A. Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), B. Bottle Gentian (Gentiana andrewsii), C. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa), D. Compass Plant (Silphium Laciniatum), E. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), F. Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES

13 12 A SOLUTION TO BUCKTHORN BIOMASS Since buckthorn grows quickly as it forms dense infestations, there’s typically a substantial brush pile left behind following a clearing project. Two common methods of disposal are burning or landscape waste collection/drop off. Contact your municipality for information about burning permits and local compost sites, or ask your waste management company about woody brush removal. Raking up fallen berries will help prevent new growth since buckthorn seeds can remain viable in the soil for as long as six years. There are more inventive solutions, too. One Lake County resident has created a fence from the branches, creating a barrier that does not totally obstruct the view beyond. The woody refuse of hundreds of buckthorns was crafted into a durable, attractive fence along the parkway. “It is important and fair to note that I saw something very much like this in a home and garden magazine many years ago,” the resident said. “It stuck with me as a great way to repurpose [buckthorn] and soften the look of a metal fence.” The fence spans nearly 1,000 feet. Cedar posts are clad in buckthorn sapling trunks that have been meticulously stripped of side branches. Crossbeams are also disguised with short sections of stem, creating the effect of an unbroken buckthorn façade.

PHOTOS >> 12 & 13. Buckthorn brush can be put to use, such as the stems in this creative fence. 14. A calm scene at Middlefork Savanna.

6 HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

RESTORING THE REGION We aren’t the only agency trying to make sure the buckthorn stops here. Like Lake County, buckthorn is the most common tree species in Chicagoland, adding up to 28% of all trees. To “get everyone pulling on the rope together in the same direction,” Ueltzen said, we communicate and collaborate with several county and regional agencies. The Chicago Region Trees Initiative, U.S. Forest Service, Openlands, Citizens for Conservation, Ancient Oaks Foundation, Lake Forest Open Lands Association, City of Lake Forest, private landscaping firms and other forest preserve districts are all involved in different roles. “They accelerate the message to a wide, regional audience,” Frederick said. “Instead of duplicating efforts, we’re sharing the resources we create. It’s good for the taxpayer.” Buckthorn eradication is a long-term effort, but we are committed to the cause. We’ve even enshrined it in our 100-Year Vision for Lake County. We aim to “eradicate buckthorn on forest preserve lands through restoration and management and reduce buckthorn by 50% in Lake County through partnerships and outreach.” There isn’t a yellow brick road to follow. But there could be a Middlefork road. “We will continue to learn a lot about how to interact with residential neighborhoods, homeowners associations, industrial parks, golf courses, and schools,” said Ueltzen. “If we have sustained success, we’ll come out with lessons learned to apply to other parts of the county. The key is building relationships between people, not only between the Lake County Forest Preserves and landowners, but peer to peer.” Success is both tending your own garden and bringing neighbors along with you. “Take out buckthorn from your yard. Use native plants or consider them. Spread the word. Learn about native landscaping and what it can do for you,” Frederick said. “It saves money, saves time and gives back in ways conventional

landscapes cannot and will not.” LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES

TOGETHER, ACHIEVING MORE FOR OUR FOREST PRESERVES.

As a new year begins, consider being a voice for nature by making a tax-deductible donation to the Preservation Foundation. Or give a unique gift to a loved one by supporting the care of trails and preserves or adopting a baby Blanding’s turtle in their honor. Every gift matters, and 100% of your donation supports work on the ground. Learn more about giving opportunities at LCFPD.org/donate or call 847-968-3110.

TELL US YOUR STORY

GROWING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES AT THE GREEN YOUTH FARM

Jonathan, a longtime Mundelein-area resident who recently moved to Grayslake, knows the restorative power of daily walks in nature. Three of his favorite preserves are Greenbelt, Ray Lake and Rollins Savanna (below). Facing some health challenges, Jonathan credits the peaceful settings and walkable paths of the preserves with saving his life. How have the forest preserves been there for you during the pandemic—or at any challenging time? Share your story by emailing: PreservationFoundation@LCFPD.org.

Even in the cold of winter, Green Youth Farm staff are busy starting seeds and planning the spring planting. While the farm is busiest during the growing season—when local teens grow fresh, healthy produce for the communities surrounding Greenbelt Forest Preserve (North Chicago)—work continues year-round. Raising charitable support for this program is a year-round effort too. We are grateful to Lake Forest Bank & Trust, and to Libertyville Bank & Trust for renewing their $10,000 grant to help the farm, and our students, grow in 2021. Make Your Gift to Middlefork Go Further Thank you to Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation for awarding a third Community Stewardship Challenge Grant! Now through April 2022, every dollar of your gift to restore Middlefork Savanna (Lake Forest) will be matched by $3. Help us reach our $7,000 goal, and see your gift multiplied several times. Give online at LCFPD.org/donate.

8 HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

Give, Naturally

For all of 2020, the Lake County Forest Preserves was there for you. As the pandemic restricted social and recreational activities, so many people found refuge on preserve trails. On average, daily visits since last spring have been 40% higher than the busiest summer weekends in previous years. This has always been true. Your forest preserves are always working for you—whether or not you step foot on a trail— protecting water quality, air quality and quality of life. In turn, you can be there for the forest preserves with a gift to the Preservation Foundation. Your donation will help us do so much more.

PRESERVENEWS Des Plaines River Trail Earns National Recognition The scenic 31.4-mile trail and greenway is now a designated National Recreation Trail (NRT) after recently being added to the National Trails System.

Reservations Open for 2021 Events With nature as a backdrop, this expansive venue makes the perfect setting for any occasion, with both indoor and outdoor spaces available. Reserve the Greenbelt Cultural Center now for your 2021 business meetings, showers, weddings, and other special events. To inquire about a reservation, visit LCFPD.org/GCC or call 847-968-3477.

The NRT program is jointly administered by the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service. It recognizes exemplary existing trails that connect people to federal, state and local resources, and help improve their quality of life. The Des Plaines River Trail is a recreational treasure in Lake County and one of the crown jewels of your forest preserve system.

LIGHTED TRAILS OPEN Through March 14, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can get some brisk evening exercise along designated solar-lit trails at Old School (Libertyville) and Lakewood (Wauconda): LCFPD.org/solar-lit.

STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE | Road Map to 2025 Four new strategic objectives were approved by the Board of Commissioners this summer to help move our planning efforts forward five more years. Multiple tactics under each area of focus provide a road map toward achieving each of these objectives.

Observations by local artist Pat Chaney

• Steward Healthy Landscapes: Protect and restore ecological habitats and services. • Strengthen Connections: Extend public access, brand awareness, and education and outreach. • Ensure Financial Stability: Build a clear economic pathway for long-term capacity. • Sustain Organizational Excellence: Emphasize mission-centric leadership to balance organizational resources, core activities and culture. View the complete 100-Year Vision and Strategic Plan and full set of Road Map to 2025 Objectives at LCFPD.org/vision.

E X C E L L E N C E I S I N O U R N AT U R E

"I found it!"

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES

BUFFALO CREEK

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS RD

CHECKER RD

W LAKE COOK RD

SCHAEFFER RD

WILKE RD COU N TRY CLU B

Featured Preserve

SHENANDOAH LN VE N C OLN A

OLD HICKS RD

CHECKER RD

SET AMID BUSTLING SUBURBS, A QUIET PLACE TO RELAX AND

his expansive 408-acre preserve offers 5.5 miles of gravel trails

for hiking, biking and cross-country

BUFFALO CREEK FOREST PRESERVE 408 ACRES | LONG GROVE

PRESERVE AREA

WOODED AREA

WATER

VILLAGE PARK/PRESERVE ENTRANCE

PARKING PRESERVE TRAILS TRAIL (COMING SOON)

TRAIL ACCESS TRAIL ACCESS (COMING SOON) FISHING

OVERLOOK

ACTIVITIES & AMENITIES FISHING BIKING

skiing. Fishing is allowed in the reservoir, which plays a major role in area flood control. Compared to our other preserves, Buffalo Creek has the highest number of people (nearly 139,000) living within a 10-minute drive of its entrance. We acquired land here between 1978 and 1998. Schaeffer Road divides the preserve—land on the east was obtained primarily for flood water detention and land on the west for preservation of open space. Depending on seasonal rainfall, changes occur regularly in the appearance of the preserve’s dam,

HIKING

reservoir and sprawling creeks. The

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

prairie is a favorite nesting spot for

PUBLIC PARKING

grassland birds, including bobolinks

TOILETS

and eastern meadowlarks.

PICNIC TABLES

Public access and restoration projects GETTING HERE The entrance is on Checker Road just west

have been ongoing since the 1980s. The most recent improvements are

of Arlington Heights Road. Trail access

the addition of 1.7 miles of trails,

for pedestrians and bicyclists is also

seven new boardwalks, two scenic

available along Arlington Heights Road, Checker Road and Schaeffer Road.

HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

HISTORY OF THE PRESERVE Most of Buffalo Creek was previously owned by the Popp family, who ran a dairy farm before converting to grain crops such as soybeans, wheat and corn. A German immigrant from Munich, John Popp (1832–1922) arrived in the U.S. in 1851 and settled in Wheeling. In 1854, he married Margaretha Weidner (1832–1910). The couple had nine children. The eldest son, George Popp (1861–1951), took over the farm operation. George, and his family after him, farmed the land continuously until 1979. The Popp family was proud of their farm and worked the land with industry and spirit. A plaque set in a boulder at

THIS EMERALD ISLAND OFFERS RECREATE WITH NATURE. overlooks, and 30 additional parking spaces. An existing 0.5-mile trail segment in a flood-prone area was relocated to higher ground. Restoration efforts included 19 acres of new wetland, 60 acres of new prairie and savanna, 1,000 native trees and shrubs, and a massive

the preserve says, “In the future as this land serves the public by providing flood control and outdoor recreation,

“In designing the

it will stand as a monument to the

expansion of the reservoir, it was important to us that it have the look of a natural body of water and blend with the land.”

patriotism, industry and spirit of the Popp family.”

MICHAEL HAUG, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

expansion of the reservoir. Valued at $9.6 million, these improvements

We are currently collaborating

were completed at no cost to the

with the Illinois Department of

Forest Preserves, thanks to an

Transportation and the Village of

intergovernmental agreement with

Arlington Heights to complete a

the Metropolitan Water Reclamation

pedestrian crosswalk at Wilke Road

District of Greater Chicago.

for safe access across Lake Cook

We’ve completed several flood management, wetland mitigation and recreational trail projects

Road to trails at Buffalo Creek, further expanding connections to this gem of a preserve.

with varying organizations and jurisdictions. A recent collaboration with the Lake County Department

Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)

of Transportation occurred in the western 62 acres of the preserve. A wetland mitigation bank was created by returning former farm fields to a natural condition through the removal of drain tiles and the rehydration of wetlands that once occurred here.

TOP: Barn, photographed by Thomas Hoyne of Long Grove, Illinois, circa 1973. (Dunn Museum 92.26.3). BOTTOM: Margaretha Weidner Popp and John Popp, circa 1890. Photo courtesy of The Raupp Museum, Buffalo Grove Park District.

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES

WINTER CALENDAR Virtual Education Programs, Activities and Resources Due to COVID-19, an array of virtual nature and history programs, school field trips, and digital resources are available. For descriptions, pricing and tickets, visit LCFPD.org/calendar or call 847-968-3321.

NATURE EDUCATION VIRTUAL PROGRAMS For All Ages Program series feature virtual nature workshops, scavenger hunts, adult trivia night, citizen science opportunities, backyard birding, reptiles and amphibians, and insects. Check out our new monthly Virtual Nature Club (see below for details). Follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @LCFPD for more educational resources, webinars and videos. Browse all nature education program offerings and register at LCFPD.org/calendar.

HISTORY EDUCATION VIRTUAL PROGRAMS For All Ages Though all in-person programs remain canceled, adults, children and families can virtually attend a variety of workshops, storytelling, special exhibition gallery tours, and lectures to learn more about culture and history in Lake County and beyond. On the first and third Thursdays of every month, free virtual education programs are made possible through a donation by USG. Browse all history education program offerings and register at LCFPD.org/calendar.

VIRTUAL SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS For Teachers Our history and environmental educators offer several virtual field trip experiences that engage students and lighten the load for teachers. Artifacts, live animals, and biofacts are used in programs to help students learn about local history and the natural world. Teachers can choose from a variety of topics including prehistoric Lake County, early settlers, the Potawatomi, geology, animal adaptions, birds, and lake ecology. All programs support Illinois Learning Standards. Each program runs 30–45 minutes. Cost is $30 for the first classroom; $20 for each additional classroom attending. View all field trips and register at LCFPD.org/schools.

NEW! VIRTUAL NATURE CLUB FREE • Join us the first Wednesday of every month, 3:30–4 pm, through June 2021 Meet up after school virtually to learn about Lake County nature and wildlife with an experienced environmental educator. Then put your knowledge to the test with homework that encourages you to explore these nature concepts in your own backyard and beyond. A new topic is presented every month via Zoom. The Virtual Nature Club is geared toward first–fourth graders. Adult supervision is required. View topics and get Zoom link at LCFPD.org/nature-club.

HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

Got a burning question about Lake County history or nature? Our professional educators have the answer.

AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org

PROFILES IN EXCELLENCE VIRTUAL EVENT | 2021 Profiles In Excellence: Our Voice is Black History FREE Virtual Event • Saturday, February 6 at 3 pm Because of ongoing COVID-19 concerns and to protect the health of all participants, the 2021 Profiles in Excellence program will be presented in a virtual format. Advance registration is required and space is limited. Check LCFPD.org/profiles for program details and registration information. Follow us on Facebook @LCFPD for live streaming and for links to the recorded event.

The 2021 program theme, Our Voice is Black History, features students and faculty from the College of Lake County sharing their experiences through stories collected from Lake County's African American community. The project is the foundation of an exciting new exhibition opening virtually in February at the Dunn Museum (Libertyville). Please visit the Dunn Museum's website at DunnMuseum.org to check the current open/closed status, find virtual programs and reserve your Museum admission ticket in advance. See page 15 for details.

2021 SUMMER CAMPS TO BE ANNOUNCED IN SPRING

Registration for the upcoming summer camp season typically opens on December 1. However, we all know that 2020 was not a typical year. As a result, we are delaying the announcement of the 2021 summer camp schedule. A full roster will be listed online at LCFPD.org/camps and in the spring 2021 issue of Horizons.

Information about the Conservation Explorers and Science Explorers in Nature programs will also be included. This new timeline allows our staff to make the best, safest decision regarding the type of programming to offer—virtual, in-person or hybrid—based on anticipated pandemic conditions and guidelines next summer.

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES

“Welcome back to the woods. Words of the Woods, that is. I’m your host, Brett Peto.” Season 2 of our award-winning podcast, Words of the Woods, is available now. Episode 1: The Value of Nature

Jim Anderson, Director of Natural Resources

Episode 2: Hello, Halloween Hikes

Eileen Davis, Environmental Educator Jill Stites, retired Environmental Educator Janice Aull, volunteer

Episode 3: Technolo-Tree

Debbie Boness, Information Technology Officer Rian Crowley, Database Developer

Episode 4: A Strong Foundation

Ty Kovach, Executive Director Rebekah Snyder, Chief Development Officer Nels Leutwiler, President of the Preservation Foundation Karen Hunter, Chair of the Development Committee

Episode 5: A Childhood Spent Outdoors Alyssa Firkus, Education Manager Jenny Sazama, Environmental Educator

Environmental Communications Specialist Brett Peto is back with five fresh staff interviews covering the community-improving work we do each day. Listen to Seasons 1 and 2 now on your favorite podcast app, or learn more: LCFPD.org/newsletters

HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

Words of the woods

Please visit DunnMuseum.org to check the current open/closed status, find virtual programs and reserve your Museum admission ticket in advance.

SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS

Through June 13, 2021

Breaking Barriers: Women in the Military For centuries, women have helped to defend the nation in times of war and conflict. In this tribute to those who served, the Dunn Museum shares unique Lake County stories and explores women’s roles as nurses, auxiliary personnel, enlistees, and officers in the U.S. military. The nation’s struggle was their struggle, and women wanted to have a larger role, equal to men in responsibility and risk.

Opening virtually,OUR February 2021 VOICE IS

OUR VOICE IS BLACK HISTORY

OUR VOICE IS BLACK HISTORY PAST • PRESENT • FUTURE PAST • PRESENT • FUTURE BLACK HISTORY Our Voice is Black History is a collaboration between the Dunn Museum and the College PAST • PRESENT • FUTURE

of Lake County’s Black Student Union. It offers a unique look at a representation of the African American voice of Lake County. The exhibition examines and explores multigenerational stories and experiences through graphic design, poetry, writing, art, and video interviews that portray the voice of the African Americans’ past and reality, which becomes Our Voice. Visit DunnMuseum.org for the virtual exhibition details.

OUR VOICE IS BLACK HISTORY PAST • PRESENT • FUTURE

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRES E RVES

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

847-367-6640 tel (Operations) 847-968-3404 tel (Public Safety) 847-245-3735 fax

For hours, visit our website.

LCFPD.org 911 emergency 847-549-5200 nonemergency public safety issues

INDEPENDENCE GROVE

BESS BOWER DUNN MUSEUM

BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB

16400 West Buckley Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048

1899 West Winchester Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048

33600 North U.S. Highway 45 Grayslake, Illinois 60030

847-968-3499 Main 847-247-1111 Banquets, Meetings

Dunn@LCFPD.org

847-968-3400

847-968-3100 Tee Times 847-968-3441 Golf Gift Cards 847-489-1931 Golf Outings

IndependenceGrove@LCFPD.org IndependenceGrove.org Visitors Center For hours, visit our website. Marina and Café Closed for the season.

Parking Fee Lake County residents FREE Nonresidents (credit card only) $6 per car Monday–Thursday $12 per car Friday–Sunday and holidays FOX RIVER MARINA 28500 West Roberts Road Port Barrington, Illinois 60010 847-381-0669

FoxRiverMarina.org

DunnMuseum.org

BraeLochGolfClub.org

Gallery and Gift Shop For hours, visit our website.

COUNTRYSIDE GOLF CLUB

Free programs on the first and third Thursdays of every month will be offered virtually until further notice.

20800 West Hawley Street Mundelein, Illinois 60060

Free programs sponsored by:

847-968-3100 Tee Times 847-968-3441 Golf Gift Cards 847-489-1931 Golf Outings

General Admission Visit our website to purchase timed entry tickets. Only a limited number of tickets will be available for purchase in person. $6 adults/$10 nonresidents $3 seniors, youth/$6 nonresidents Free, children ages 3 and under Discount Tuesdays $3 adults/$5 nonresidents $1.50 seniors, youth/$3 nonresidents

Boat Launch and Marina For hours and fees, visit our website.

RYERSON CONSERVATION AREA

GREENBELT CULTURAL CENTER

21950 North Riverwoods Road Riverwoods, Illinois 60015

1215 Green Bay Road North Chicago, Illinois 60064

847-968-3320

LCFPD.org/ryerson

847-968-3477 Banquets, Meetings

Greenbelt@LCFPD.org

GreenbeltCulturalCenter.org Office Hours By appointment only

HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 02 0

Welcome Center For hours, visit our website.

Prairie and Traditional Courses

CountrysideGolfClub.org THUNDERHAWK GOLF CLUB A Robert Trent Jones Jr. championship golf course 39700 North Lewis Avenue Beach Park, Illinois 60099 847-968-3100 847-968-3441 847-489-1931 847-968-3450

Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets

ThunderHawkGolfClub.org

FOREST PRESERVE Entrance/Parking

GENERAL OFFICES AND DUNN MUSEUM

FOREST PRESERVE EASEMENTS

OPERATIONS AND PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY

Nearly 31,000 acres make up your Lake County Forest Preserves.

STATE LAND

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.

DES PLAINES RIVER TRAIL (DPRT) CASEY TRAIL PRAIRIE CROSSING TRAIL/GRAYSLAKE BIKE PATH

Tuesday, December 15

CHAIN O’LAKES BIKE PATH Planned Section

PATRIOT PATH Planned GRAND ILLINOIS TRAIL Planned

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Cedar Lake Rd

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Kilbourne Rd

Hunt Club Rd

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York House Rd

LYONS WOODS

MILL CREEK

SEDGE MEADOW

Ste arns Sc

hoo l Rd

Blanchard Rd

Delany Rd

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Crawford Rd

!!! ! ! ! !! !! ! ! ! !

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!! !!

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BEACH PARK

WAUKEGAN SAVANNA

Sand Lake Rd

FOURTH LAKE

ROUND LAKE HEIGHTS

! !! ! ! ! ! ! !

Wadsworth Rd

BONNER HERITAGE FARM

Monaville Rd

McDONALD WOODS

33rd St

WADSWORTH

Lewis Ave

Sand Lake Rd

OLD MILL CREEK

GRANT WOODS

DUCK FARM

LAKE VILLA

Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

THUNDERHAWK GOLF CLUB

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LINDENHURST

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ZION

Cedar Lake State Bog

Grass Lake Rd

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OAK-HICKORY

WADSWORTH SAVANNA

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HASTINGS LAKE Grass L Gelden Rd

ETHEL'S WOODS

! ! Petite Lake Rd

SPRING BLUFF WINTHROP HARBOR

Sheridan Rd

SUN LAKE

VAN PATTEN WOODS

Des Plaines River

BLUEBIRD MEADOW

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RAVEN GLEN

Town Line Rd

FOX LAKE

DUTCH GAP !

Beach Grove Rd

Grass Lake Rd

PRAIRIE STREAM

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Edwards Rd

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LAKE MARIE

Chain O'Lakes State Park

ANTIOCH

SEQUOIT CREEK

Russell Rd !

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Deep Lake Rd

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M CCLORY TRAIL / NORTH SHORE PATH

Green Bay

Wilmot Rd

FORT HILL TRAIL Planned Section

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Red Wing Slough State Natural Area

Fox River

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MIDDLEFORK TRAIL Planned Section

PINE DUNES

GANDER MOUNTAIN

! !

DOG PARK

MILLENNIUM TRAIL Planned Section

DPRT TO LYONS WOODS Planned Section

LCFPD.org

Use our interactive trail map online to help navigate your next adventure. To view the map, open the camera app on your phone and hover over the QR code shown below.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

MAP CURRENT AS OF

TRAIL MAP

CANOE LAUNCH

WAUKEGAN

Grand Ave

Rollins Rd

Kil bo Rd urne

yR d

HAWTHORN WOODS

! ! ! !

ADLAI E. STEVENSON ! HISTORIC HOME

INDIAN CREEK

Everett Rd

HALF DAY

CAPTAIN DANIEL WRIGHT WOODS

M id

NORTH BARRINGTON

LONG GROVE

Riverwoods Rd

Old Barrin gton Rd

Quentin Rd

Miller Rd

Half Day Rd

ey R

LINCOLNSHIRE

RIVERWOODS

BUFFALO GROVE

DEERFIELD

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES Lake Cook Rd

CAHOKIA FLATWOODS

er Rd

BERKELEY PRAIRIE

Deerfield Rd

Check

HIGHLAND PARK

ee Gr

Lake Cook Rd

DUFFY STORMWATER FACILITY Saunders Rd

DEER PARK

BUFFALO CREEK

SKOKIE RIVER WOODS

BANNOCKBURN

Ra n

HIGHWOOD

Duffy Ln

WELCOME CENTER

cH M

CUBA MARSH

EDWARD L. RYERSON CONSERVATION AREA

PRAIRIE WOLF

Cuba Rd Arlington Heights Rd

BARRINGTON

HERON CREEK Schaeffer Rd

BARRINGTON HILLS

KILDEER

! !

FORT SHERIDAN

EGRET MARSH

Old Elm Rd

Rid

Ela Rd

Kels

LAKE ZURICH

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Old M

! !

G ilm

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LAKE FOREST

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NORTH NORTH

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GRAINGER WOODS CONSERVATION PRESERVE

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Rand Rd

GRASSY LAKE LAKE BARRINGTON !

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y lse Ke

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TOWER LAKES

MIDDLEFORK SAVANNA

METTAWA

Old

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Fish Lake Rd

Hunt Club Rd ! ! ! ! ! !

n Milto s Rd

River Rd

Fox River

MacARTHUR WOODS

irfie

VERNON HILLS

LAKEWOOD Fa

Rob ert

MARINA

! !

FOX RIVER

R ! oe nh Iva

OLD SCHOOL

ORIOLE GROVE

Sheridan Rd

m Gil

PORT BARRINGTON

MUNDELEIN

St Mary's Rd

COUNTRYSIDE GOLF CLUB

! !

Des Plaines River

e Ave

Hawley St

LAKE BLUFF

ke Milwau

WAUCONDA

Atkinson Rd

ATKINSON STORMWATER FACILITY

LIBERTYVILLE

ISLAND LAKE

GREEN OAKS

! !

Almond Rd

Oak Spring Rd

Lake Michigan

! !

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Midlothian Rd

Historical Ray Lake Boundary

Bonner Rd

Fremont Center Rd

ley

WILMOT WOODS

Winchester Rd

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Erhart Rd

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ll R

RAY LAKE

! ! ! !

Peterson Rd

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VISITORS CENTER

Chardon Rd

NORTH CHICAGO

! !

14th St

GREENBELT

INDEPENDENCE GROVE

Casey Rd

! !

!! Fi sher

! ! !

SINGING HILLS

GREENBELT CULTURAL CENTER

Bay

d R! !

ALMOND MARSH

! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

ROUND LAKE PARK

Belvidere

n Gree

ilm G

KETTLE GROVE

PARK CITY

!! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

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GRAYSLAKE

HAINESVILLE

ere R d

Washington St

Waukegan Rd

Belvid

! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

r Da

! !

Center St

KESTREL RIDGE

MARL FLAT

! !

BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB

NIPPERSINK

ROUND LAKE

Black Crown Marsh ! ! State Natural Area!!

Washington St

VOLO

LAKE CARINA

Washington St

THIRD LAKE !

ee Gr

Nippersink Rd

GURNEE

ROLLINS SAVANNA

! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! !

Volo Bog State Natural Area

LAKEMOOR

! !

n ry L Dru

ROUND LAKE BEACH

TANAGER KAMES

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES GENERAL OFFICES 1899 WEST WINCHESTER ROAD LIBERTYVILLE ILLINOIS 60048

PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY—

TIME- SENSITIVE MATERIAL

HORI Z ON S SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES HOTLINE: 847–968–3335 email : Horizons@LCFPD.org

THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED USING 100% RECYCLED PAPER, ALLOWING US TO SAVE 74 MATURE TREES, 5,526 GALS WATER, 10,606 LBS GREENHOUSE GASES

Keep the mistletoe. Let the tree go.

Gift Cards Dunn Museum gift cards can be used to purchase in-person admission tickets and gift shop merchandise. They incur no service changes or hidden fees, and they never expire. The amount you buy is redeemable in full, forever. Buy gift cards online at LCFPD.org/museum-store.

Donate your holiday tree to us and we’ll recycle it into woodchips for trails and landscaping at forest preserves in Lake County. Get details and find locations at LCFPD.org.

SHELTER RENTALS, SPECIAL USE PERMITS Because of ongoing COVID-19 concerns, picnic shelter rentals, open area reservations, special use permits, and youth group camping permits will not be available for 2021. For details and updates: LCFPD.org/covid-19.

FLICKR PICK Beauty In The Sky Varied shades of colors shine over wintry Lake Michigan at Fort Sheridan (Lake Forest) as the sunrise lights up the sky and casts icy blue hues to welcome the day. Posted via Flickr by photographer Jeff Goldberg. Connect with us! Find us on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Flickr, or YouTube @LCFPD. Download our mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store — search for “Lake County Forest Preserves.”