The Conservationist | Spring 2012 by Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

t he

Conser nser vationist

A Quarterly Publication of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Spring 2012

from the president The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been a leader in trail development, and with spring erupting around us, I think it’s a great time to highlight a few efforts that have expanded our 145-mile system. For the past 30 years, the District has been collaborating with local agencies to finance and acquire properties along Salt Creek in order to protect the watershed while creating a regional trail. Today, the 30-mile Salt Creek Greenway Trail offers a wealth of routes by connecting forest preserves in northeastern DuPage with the Illinois Prairie Path and over a dozen communities. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

In West Chicago, the District and several of its partners are adding 1 mile to the West Branch Regional Trail at Timber Ridge Forest Preserve. The new segment, which will open Memorial Day weekend, connects the Great Western Trail with St. Charles Road via mature woodlands, prairies, wetlands and views of the river. Later in the year, the District, the city of Naperville and the Naperville Park District will open a 0.9-mile extension of the regional trail that will offer convenient access between McDowell Grove Forest Preserve and the park district’s Wil-O-Way Commons. In addition to these joint efforts, the District has installed 1.1 miles of trail at Songbird Slough Forest Preserve in Addison to separate pedestrian traffic from the road and to connect the main picnic area with local trails and the surrounding neighborhood. And it continues to enhance trails at many preserves with bicycle racks, log benches, interpretive signs, way-finding markers or solarpowered warning lights at roadway intersections. The Forest Preserve District takes pride in providing so many trail amenities to taxpayers, and with minimal capital investments. These scenic routes lead many to healthier lifestyles and to historical, natural and cultural points of interest along the way. Most importantly, perhaps, they provide access to the best that DuPage County has to offer: its forest preserves. I hope to see you out on the trails soon!

President D. “Dewey” Pierotti Jr., Addison Commissioners Marsha Murphy, Addison — District 1 Joseph F. Cantore, Oakbrook Terrace — District 2 Linda Painter, Hinsdale — District 3 Michael Formento, Glen Ellyn — District 4 Carl Schultz, Aurora — District 5 Roger G. Kotecki, Warrenville — District 6 Executive Director Brent Manning

BOARD MEETINGS For schedules and agendas, visit dupageforest.org.

I THE CONSERVATIONIST Spring 2012, Vol. 48, No. 2 Editor William Weidner Associate Editor Beth Schirott Editorial Assistants Johanna Biedron Jayne Bohner Audra Mason Bonnet Bonnie Olszewski Graphic Designer Deanna Eichenauer

I FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF DU PAGE COUNTY P.O. Box 5000, Wheaton, IL 60189 (630) 933-7200, TTY (800) 526-0857 dupageforest.org

D. “Dewey” Pierotti Jr. President, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Subscriptions to The Conservationist, a Forest Preserve District of DuPage County quarterly publication, are free for DuPage County residents and $5 per year for nonresidents. To subscribe, call (630) 933-7085 or e-mail forest@dupageforest.org.

contents Vol. 48, No. 2 | Spring 2012

4 News & Notes 6 A Beaver Balance 6

8 Spring Calendar 21 Rain Gardens in DuPage County 24 Explore 26 Directory

27 Map On the cover: American beaver © James Beissel

OUR Mission

To acquire and hold lands for the purpose of preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure and recreation of DuPage County citizens

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news & notes BOARD OKS PLAN FOR MUSK TURTLE MARSH The Board of Commissioners has approved a plan to address flooding along the Main Trail at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien. A new section of crushedlimestone trail will bypass Musk Turtle Marsh and pass instead through prairies and woodlands. The improved alignment will provide year-round access and address public-safety, maintenance and cost concerns while minimizing the trail’s effect on surrounding wetlands. The District will also improve habitat within the marsh and the adjacent Kettle Woods by removing invasive trees and old sections of trail. Funding is set for the trail and much of the restoration, and work may begin at the end of this year.

LAND Acquisition THANK YOU Volunteers In recognition of National Volunteer Week, April 15 – 21, the Forest Preserve District applauds its 913 longterm and 4,109 one-time volunteers, who last fiscal year helped improve the forest preserves by donating more than 88,000 hours with an in-kind value of over $1.8 million. The District will honor its volunteers and recognize those with milestone accomplishments on April 12 at its annual banquet.

In December, the District closed on 2.1 acres at Meacham Grove Forest Preserve in Bloomingdale north of Lake Street and east of Bloomingdale Road. The land has high-quality woodlands and is adjacent to a regional trail.

SNOWY OWL HEALED AT RAPTOR FLIGHT FACILITY

STAY UPDATED YOUR WAY

AWARD-WINNING EFFORTS

Sign up today for Forest Preserve District updates on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Flickr. (Look for DuPageForest on Twitter and YouTube.) Plus, enjoy The Conservationist 24/7 at dupageforest.org. If you prefer to read The Conservationist online, e-mail forest@dupageforest.org, and have your mailed copy discontinued.

The District’s online multimedia tour of St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville has received two awards for outstanding website design. The tour introduces the property’s history and abundant natural resources and is on the St. James Farm page of the District’s website, dupageforest.org.

ONLINE Project Updates Are you looking for information on new trails or other forest preserve improvements? Then visit “Plans and Projects” under “District News” at dupageforest.org for updates and images of forest preserve projects. 4

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

The “Day at the Farm Field Trip” at Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago recently earned an Award of Merit from the Illinois Association of Museums. The program, which the farm offers in spring and fall, gives students ages 6 – 12 a chance to learn about 1890s chores and family life through hands-on activities.

In December, Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn housed an unexpected patient: a snowy owl. The first-year female had collided with an SUV. As its condition improved, the owl was moved to Willowbrook’s new raptor flight facility, the only one of its kind in the region. The special design of the 3,300-square-foot outdoor building allows large birds to fly in a complete loop, which helps them strengthen their wings more quickly. They’re also able to hunt small live prey, a key skill they need to retain in order to return to the wild. Over the winter, the Midwest saw an influx of these arctic birds. A cyclical surge in their population sent juveniles farther afield than normal in search of winter hunting grounds. From the snowy owl’s arrival at Willowbrook until its release in January, over 30 print, radio, television and online news outlets published stories and photos of its successful rehabilitation.

NONPROFIT FOUNDATION APPROVED BY IRS The Internal Revenue Service has approved the establishment of the Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County as a 501(c)(3), 509(a)(1) public charity. This new nonprofit organization will pursue charitable contributions from individuals, businesses and civic groups to support the District’s mission. It will ultimately operate as an organization with its own budget and leadership through a volunteer board. To learn about the board or ways to donate, call the District’s Office of Fundraising and Development at (630) 871-6400.

MANY Thanks

PUBLIC Meetings

The Forest Preserve District thanks the following donors who contributed to its efforts between Nov. 1 and Feb. 14.

Event Sponsors Belleza Skin Care Institute, a Member of DuPage Medical Group Cedric Spring Chipotle Mexican Grill Corky’s Catering DentalWorks Koenig and Strey Real Living — Gaylyn Genovesi Mike Shimer Photography Providence Bank REI Republic Bank TG Images Two Crazy Bakers’ Cupcake Corporation WDCB-FM Whole Foods Market Gifts of Note Irene Bowman Loving Trust $70,000 — Willowbrook Wildlife Center Lyndell F. Bowman Trust $15,000 — Willowbrook Wildlife Center Unilever/Friends of Danada $7,500 — Mighty Acorns

Patrica Wirtz $7,000 — St. James Farm caboose restoration BNSF Foundation $5,000 — St. James Farm caboose restoration Mary Demmon Private Trust $4,461 — Danada horse care Unilever/Chicago Wilderness $2,800 — Mighty Acorns Commissioner Roger Kotecki $2,000 — Outdoor Explorers Summer Camp Paobu Imports $1,800 — recreational programs for individuals with special needs Mr. and Mrs. Harold E. Bamford, III $1,500 — Willowbrook Wildlife Center Chicago Herpetological Society $1,000 — Blanding’s Turtle Recovery Program Gaylord Walter collection of artist-signed wildlife prints Wayne Area Conservancy Foundation in-kind seeding and maintenance at Dunham Woods

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners meetings and planning sessions are open to the public and are held at District headquarters at 3S580 Naperville Road in Wheaton. Schedules and agendas are available in advance on the District’s website, dupageforest.org. Commission meetings normally take place the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 9 a.m. Planning sessions normally take place the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 9 a.m. At both, the board hears comments from the public and reports from staff and discusses District business; at commission meetings, the board also votes on agenda items.

WORK TO REDUCE FLOODING IN BARTLETT The Forest Preserve District, the village of Bartlett and DuPage County have entered into an intergovernmental agreement to improve stormwater control near Route 59 and Stearns Road. Once work begins, the installation of a sewer pipe and an overflow basin will affect Wayne Grove Forest Preserve in Bartlett and Pratt’s Wayne Woods Forest Preserve in Wayne respectively. DuPage County and Bartlett will fund the construction.

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American beaver (Castor canadensis)

A Beaver Balance by SCOTT MEISTER, FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT ECOLOGIST

ext to humans, no other creature has

the amazing determination and capacity to change its surroundings more than the beaver. Beavers are North America’s largest rodents, but they’re also members of a small group of semiaquatic mammals that spend a large part of their time in the water. Beavers short, wide legs, webbed hind feet and rudderlike tails make them far more adept at traveling through water than over land. Clear eyelids and an ability to seal their ears and noses allow them to function even when completely submerged — up to 15 minutes at a time thanks in part to their large lungs. To protect their skin against this harsh, wet environment, they produce a waterproof oil they regularly spread over their fur with the help of split nails on their front paws called “grooming claws.” The beaver’s fur was, of course, almost its undoing. From the early 1600s until the mid-1800s, Europeans’ desire for its silky underfur drove trappers across North America. The beaver, some would argue, was perhaps the number one catalyst for Europeans’ westward exploration. Fortunately, conservation efforts that began in the late 19th century saved the animal from extinction. As water-friendly herbivores, beavers enjoy the soft shoots and roots of aquatic plants, such as sedges, cattails and rushes, but also eat fresh bark and tender stems from young trees that grow on land. Fast-growing trees are especially suited to the beaver’s lifestyle. Willows, for instance, sprout in dense clumps near rivers and wetlands. Because beavers do not hibernate, they work on these clumps throughout fall so they have enough supple stems to store in their underwater food 6

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

caches to sustain them through winter. Interestingly, this heavy foraging may initiate a defense mechanism in willows that causes them to resprout more robustly the following spring, making them a renewable food source. To better access favorite terrestrial food sources, beavers build their famous dams, which are usually comprised of trees, mud and weeds. The pond, or “impoundment,” that forms upstream of the dam floods the surrounding area, giving the animals easy passage to future meals. But dams also illustrate the beaver’s role as a “good citizen” in the natural neighborhood. Migrating ducks and other birds use beaver-created wetlands to reach underwater plants and invertebrates, and in fall the area attracts frogs, toads and turtles looking for places where they can bury themselves in the sediment to hibernate through winter. One such dam with great wildlife viewing opportunities is at James “Pate” Philip State Park in Bartlett near the pedestrian bridge at Brewster Creek by the visitor center. Another of the beaver’s construction feats is the lodge. Beavers build these dome-shaped structures — some rising 5 feet above the water’s surface — often along shorelines upstream of their dams. The ability of a dam to maintain elevated water levels provides a key safety feature because it keeps the underwater entrances to a lodge hidden from predators. Inside the lodge, the animals have dry shelter, lots of air and space to have and raise their young. Although beavers are mainly nocturnal and rarely seen, visitors can spot their homes and other handiwork in many forest preserves. The beaver’s engineering skills can be fascinating, but its accomplishments are not always appreciated. When

> © John H. Ghent, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

One lodge, which can be over 5 feet tall and 40 feet wide, can house a family of up to eight beavers.

local waterways swell with melting snow and spring rains, the sound of running water triggers a call-to-action by beavers to expand and reinforce their dams. This can cause water to spill beyond the banks of a stream or edge of a wetland and lead to public safety concerns or damage to buildings or landscaping. It’s not difficult to see why many people believe that beavers are nothing more than a nuisance. To coexist in such a developed landscape as DuPage County, a delicate balance must be struck between humans and beavers. Fortunately, there are a variety of actions people can take to protect against beaver-related damage. Homeowners can protect desirable trees by wrapping the bases with wire-mesh fencing or hardware cloth. When a dam causes safety concerns, professionals can install pipes to move water around or through it. Removing beavers from an area to solve a conflict, though, is not typically effective. Beavers live in family groups where young kits often remain with their parents for two years while learning survival skills. Removing adults can leave kits in a vulnerable predicament, and trying to remove the entire family can be extremely difficult. Besides, given the abundance of beavers and the distance young disperse from their natal area, a new family of beavers will quickly move into any suitable habitat. In the forest preserves, unless beavers are causing flooding on private property, they are usually left alone. Beavers are not only fun to observe but also important to our ecosystems, and our ability to live in harmony with these creatures speaks to our success in providing habitat for and coexisting with wildlife in our urban landscape. •

Beavers’ ever-growing incisors have chiseled ends, which are perfect for stripping bark to reach the edible layers below and for felling trees for building materials.

Though not very tall, beaver dams can create large pools called “impoundments,” which benefit other wildlife as well.

Young beavers, called kits, often stay with their parents for 2 to 3 years.

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spring calendar See pages 10 through 20 for program descriptions.

29 30

30 31

27 28 apr

27 30

28 31

1 1 may

1 1 jun

April 1 April Foolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Adventure 2 Forest Fitness Walk 7 Volunteer Restoration Workday 9 Digital Photography: Introductory Begins Forest Fitness Walk 13 FullersBird Fridays 14 Birding Field Trip Nuisance Wildlife of DuPage Spring Into Volunteering Volunteer Restoration Workday

22 Go Green! A Celebration of Conservation Sheep Shearing 24 Birding at Willowbrook 25 Geocaching for Active Adults Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday 27 Fishing Flowing Waters Frogginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Under the Stars FullersBird Fridays

15 Introduction to Prescription Burns

28 Prairie Path Cleanup

16 Forest Fitness Walk

29 Cast-Iron Cooking Wreaths for Wildlife

17 Birding at Willowbrook Exploring Watercolors Begins Home-Schoolers Nature Hike 20 FullersBird Fridays

21 Helping Hands at Herrick Lake Sheep Shearing Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday Volunteer Restoration Workday

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30 Forest Fitness Walk

May 1 Birding at Willowbrook 3 Fishing Clinic for Active Adults Begins Strings, Swing and Gershwin 4 FullersBird Fridays 5 Birding Field Trip Bird Study Merit Badge Begins Mayslake at Night Meet the Beaver 7 Compass Class 101 Forest Fitness Walk

11 FullersBird Fridays Kayaking Basics Native-Plant Sale

20 Archery for All Ages

12 Archery for All Ages Archery for Beginners International Migratory Bird Day Celebration Native-Plant Sale Volunteer Restoration Workday

22 Birding at Willowbrook

13 Blackwell History Hike 14 Forest Fitness Walk 15 Birding at Willowbrook

8 Birding at Willowbrook Fishing 101 Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday Writing Workshop: Writing for Children and Teens Begins 9 Cycling for Active Adults 10 Home-Schoolers Nature Hike

16 Archery for Active Adults Kayaking Basics 18 Fishing Clinic for Beginners Fishing Clinic for Kids Frogginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Under the Stars FullersBird Fridays

21 Forest Fitness Walk

23 Archery for Kids Kayaking for Active Adults 25 Fishing for Carp Frogginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Under the Stars FullersBird Fridays 26 Family Field Day at St. James Farm 28 Memorial Day Remembered 29 Archery for Active Adults 30 Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday 31 Fishing off the Beaten Path

19 Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday Volunteer Restoration Workday

June 1 Fishing Clinic for Beginners FullersBird Fridays 4 Compass Class 101 Forest Fitness Walk 5 Archery for Adults Exploring Watercolors Begins Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday 6 Archery for Active Adults 8 Fishing for Catfish FullersBird Fridays 9 Geocaching at Greene Valley St. James Farm Caboose Tour Volunteer Restoration Workday 10 Field Exploration Just for Kids Fishing Derby St. James Farm Caboose Tour

11 Digital Photography: Intermediate Begins Forest Fitness Walk 13 Archery for Beginners Paddle With a Ranger 14 Home-Schoolers Nature Hike WDCB Jazz Salon at Mayslake 15 Fishing Clinic for Beginners Fishing for Bass FullersBird Fridays 16 Archery for All Ages St. James Farm Walking Tour Volunteer Restoration Workday

22 Mammoth Hike 23 Archery for Beginners Monitoring Monarchs Ride the Trails St. James Farm Caboose Tour 24 Archery for All Ages Classical Notes at Mayslake St. James Farm Caboose Tour 26 Paddle With a Ranger 27 Archery for Kids 30 Celebrating the Fourth Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday

18 Kayaking Basics 20 Ranger Trek Junior 21 Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday

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spring calendar

April Fools’ Adventure

1890s Living Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago (630) 876-5900 Registration is not required for these free programs. BLACKSMITHING DEMONSTRATIONS Stop by the wagon shed to see the blacksmith repair equipment and demonstrate the tools and techniques of the trade. Demonstrations ongoing. Through June 23 Saturdays 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. MEET THE BEEKEEPERS Learn about beekeeping equipment and the important role that bees serve in our food supply. The beekeepers will also answer your questions about honey and bees. Through June 24 (except April 8) Sundays 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. FROM SHEEP TO SOCKS Take a house tour to discover the role wool and cotton played on the farm in the 1890s. April 5 – 30 (except April 8) Thursdays – Mondays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the hour MILK MONEY Learn how farm wives in the 1890s processed milk into butter and cheese and used the income to help support their families. June 1 – 30 Thursdays – Mondays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the hour CHILDREN’S FARM CHORES Kids, learn firsthand how 1890s children helped around the house and farm. On Mondays, help with mom’s chores; on Thursdays, dad’s. June 4 – Aug. 30 Mondays and Thursdays at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. CHILDREN’S STORY HOUR Spread a blanket on the ground, and enjoy an hour of popular children’s stories from the 1890s. June 4 – Aug. 27 Mondays at 10 a.m.

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Enjoy some April Fools’ jokes, and go on a search to see what doesn’t belong on an 1890s farm. Hear tall tales and creative fibbing during performances of the Liars Club. Activities ongoing. All ages. Free. Registration not required. Call (630) 876-5900. Apr 1

10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Kline Creek Farm

Archery for Active Adults Try your hand at archery at some of DuPage County’s most scenic preserves. Equipment provided. Ages 50 and up. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. May 16 May 29 Jun 6

5 – 7 p.m. 10 – 11:30 a.m. 6 – 8 p.m.

St. James Farm Churchill Woods St. James Farm

Archery for Adults Learn the history and basic techniques of archery at this adults-only clinic. Equipment provided. Ages 18 and up. Free. Registration begins May 22. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 5

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Churchill Woods

Archery for All Ages Learn basic archery techniques. Equipment provided. Ages 7 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. May 12 May 20 Jun 16 Jun 24

2 – 3:30 p.m. 2 – 3:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Greene Valley Greene Valley Greene Valley Churchill Woods

Archery for Beginners Discover the history of this classic sport, and learn about equipment and shooting techniques. Equipment provided. Ages 7 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. May 12 Jun 13 Jun 23

10 a.m. – noon 6 – 8 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon

St. James Farm St. James Farm St. James Farm

Archery for Kids

Cast-Iron Cooking

Kids, learn basic archery techniques. Equipment provided. Ages 7 – 17 with an adult. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248.

Help prepare a hearty meal over an open campfire, and learn tips for cooking with cast iron. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult. $10 per person ages 13 and up; $5 ages 5 – 12. Registration begins April 16. Call (630) 933-7248.

May 23 Jun 27

5 – 7 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m.

St. James Farm St. James Farm

Apr 29

1 – 3:30 p.m.

Herrick Lake

Birding at Willowbrook

Celebrating the Fourth

Learn the basics of birding, and search for feathered friends during a leisurely stroll in the Back 40. Bring binoculars. Ages 10 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Donation suggested. Registration not required. Call (630) 942-6200.

Experience one of the country’s first holidays through 1890s games, music and speeches, including the reading of the Declaration of Independence. Bring a picnic, and help make ice cream. Ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration not required. Call (630) 876-5900.

Apr 17 Apr 24 May 1 May 8 May 15 May 22

8 8 8 8 8 8

– – – – – –

9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30

a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m.

Willowbrook Willowbrook Willowbrook Willowbrook Willowbrook Willowbrook

Birding Field Trip Meet fellow birding enthusiasts, and search for resident and migratory species. Bring binoculars. Ages 8 and up; under 14 with an adult. Free. Groups of 10 or more must register. Call (630) 293-1627. Apr 14 May 5

7 – 11 a.m. 7 – 11 a.m.

Jun 30 Jul 1

1:30 – 3:30 p.m. 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Kline Creek Farm Kline Creek Farm

Classical Notes at Mayslake Enjoy a music-filled afternoon featuring members of the Chicago New Arts Trio as they perform “Birds & Flowers.” Ages 8 and up; under 16 with an adult. For tickets and prices, call (630) 206-9566, or visit mayslakepeabody.com. Jun 24

3 – 5 p.m.

Mayslake

West Chicago Prairie West Chicago Prairie

Bird Study Merit Badge Boy Scouts, meet the requirements for the Bird Study merit badge in this two-part program that includes bird identification, binocular basics, bird-banding demonstrations and more. Ages 11 – 17. $30 per Scout. To register, call (630) 850-8110. May 5 May 12

8:30 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon

Fullersburg Woods Willowbrook

Blackwell History Hike Learn about the natural and cultural history of one of DuPage County’s most popular forest preserves on this ranger-led 2-mile hike. All ages; under 16 with an adult. Free. Registration begins April 30. Call (630) 933-7248. May 13

1 – 3 p.m.

Blackwell

Canoe, Kayak and Rowboat Rentals Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton Rentals begin March 31 at Blackwell and May 5 at Herrick Lake and are available weekends through the end of September and daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. For details, call (630) 933-7248.

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spring calendar

Compass Class 101 Learn one of the oldest survival skills, how to use a compass. Then, complete a compass course. Ages 7 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. May 7 Jun 4

6 – 7 p.m. 7 – 8 p.m.

Blackwell Blackwell

Cycling for Active Adults Tour several forest preserves during this 15- to 20-mile ranger-led bike ride along the Salt Creek Greenway Trail. Ages 50 and up. Free. Registration begins April 25. Call (630) 933-7248.

Cultural Events Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook mayslakepeabody.com FIRST FOLIO THEATRE PRESENTS “THE TURN OF THE SCREW” Enjoy this adaptation of Henry James’ novel about a young governess who takes a job caring for two children at a rural estate and soon starts to believe that she sees the ghosts of the kids’ previous governess and a former house servant, who had both recently died. Tickets $26 – 37. For tickets and showtimes, call (630) 986-8067, or visit www.firstfolio.org. March 31 – April 29 Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Sundays at 3 p.m. THE ALLIANCE OF FINE ART PRESENTS “THE BEST OF THE BEST” ART SHOW View the finest works of local artists. Free. Call (630) 206-9567 for details. April 17 – May 24 Mondays – Fridays 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. RESTORATION-IN-PROGRESS TOURS Learn about the past — and future — of this historic 1920s Tudor Revival-style mansion. $5 per person. Registration required for group tours. Call (630) 206-9566. Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Saturdays at 9:30, 10, 11 and 11:30 a.m.

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May 9

9 a.m. – noon

Cricket Creek

Digital Photography Bring your camera and creativity to a five-part digital photography workshop held in partnership with the Mayslake Nature Study and Photography Club. Adults only. $125 per person. To register, call (630) 206-9566. Apr 9 – May 7 Mondays

7 – 9:30 p.m.

Mayslake Introductory

Jun 11 – Jul 16 6 – 8:30 p.m. Mondays (except Jul 2)

Mayslake Intermediate

Exploring Watercolors During these six-part classes, explore and enhance your own artistic style while enjoying the process of watercolor painting in a beautiful and relaxed setting. Adults only. $125 per person. To register, call (630) 206-9566. Apr 17 – May 22 Tuesdays

Jun 5 – Jul 17 Tuesdays (except Jul 3)

10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Mayslake Intermediate/Advanced

1 – 3:30 p.m.

Mayslake All Levels

10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Mayslake Intermediate/Advanced

1 – 3:30 p.m.

Mayslake All Levels

Roger Raccoon Club

Children ages 4 – 12 will learn about nature art, camping and ecosystems through projects, hands-on experiences and exploration in a variety of half-day camps that may be combined for full-day adventures. The camps will be held at Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook Monday through Thursday. To register, call (630) 850-8110, or visit dupageforest.org/education. Fee (per half-day session): $100 DuPage County residents, $125 nonresidents

Children ages 9 – 12 will discover the natural history of DuPage County through safe exploration and play in wild places. The camp will be held at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn on Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville on Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien from 9 a.m. Wednesday to 9 a.m. Thursday for an overnight camp out. To register, call (630) 942-6200, or visit dupageforest.org/education. Fee (per session): $100 DuPage County residents, $125 nonresidents

Jun 25 – 28

Session 1 Jun 25 – 28

Ages 4 – 6 Habitat Hunters, 9:30 a.m. – noon

Lil’ Campers, 12:30 – 3 p.m.

Ages 7 – 9 Critter Camp, 9 a.m. – noon

Camp FBW Rocks!, 12:30 – 3 p.m.

Ages 10 – 12 Bird Brains, 9:30 a.m. – noon

Adventure Camp, 12:30 – 3 p.m.

Jul 9 – 12 Ages 4 – 6 Plant Power, 9:30 a.m. – noon Lil’ Buggers, 9:30 a.m. – noon

Little Artists, 12:30 – 3 p.m.

Ages 7 – 9 Camping Adventures, 9:30 a.m. – noon

Eco Explore, 12:30 – 3 p.m. Nature Art, 12:30 – 3 p.m.

Hodge Podge Lodge Children ages 6 – 8 will learn about the environment and how they are part of nature. Each day will involve games, activities and stories. The camp will be held at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, which includes a cookout. To register, call (630) 942-6200, or visit dupageforest.org/education. Fee (per session): $100 DuPage County residents, $125 nonresidents Session 1 Jun 18 – 21 Session 2 Jul 9 – 12

Session 2 Jul 23 – 26

“Horse Sense” Camp Campers ages 10 – 14 will enjoy this hands-on experience with horses, which will include an introduction to the day-to-day activities and experiences of a working barn. This well-rounded program also includes arts and crafts, games, and supervised lead-line rides. The camp will be held at the Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. To register, call (630) 668-6012. Fee (per session): $203 DuPage County residents, $232 nonresidents Session 1 (12-1-SC) Jun 4 – 8 Session 3 (12-3-SC) Jun 18 – 22 Session 5 (12-5-SC) Jul 9 – 13

Session 7 (12-7-SC) Jul 23 – 27 Session 9 (12-9-SC) Aug 6 – 10

GO! Camp: Environmental Science Merit Badge Boy Scouts ages 11 – 17 will have a fun week exploring the environment at Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook. This camp will fulfill all requirements for the Environmental Science merit badge, which is required for advancement to Eagle Scout. The camp will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and from 10 a.m. Thursday through 9 a.m. Friday for an overnight camp out. To register, call (630) 850-8110, or visit dupageforest.org/education. Fee: $100 DuPage County residents, $125 nonresidents Jun 18 – 22

Session 3 Aug 6 – 9

“Riding Sense” Camp

Children ages 7 – 12 will experience life on an 1890s farm, including chores, domestic activities and games. The camp will be held at Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. To register, call (630) 876-5900, or visit dupageforest.org/education. Fee (per session): $100 DuPage County residents, $125 nonresidents

Campers ages 12 – 14 will discover all the fun of the “Horse Sense” camp described above plus the wonders and challenges of a riding program. This camp includes the grooming and bathing of horses, hayrides, arts and crafts, and a one-hour daily riding lesson. The camp will be held at the Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. To register, call (630) 668-6012. Fee (per session): $342 DuPage County residents, $376 nonresidents

Session 1 Jun 18, 21, 22 Session 2 Jun 25, 28, 29 Session 3 Jul 9, 12, 13

Session 2 (12-2-RC) Jun 11 – 15 Session 8 (12-8-RC) Jul 30 – Aug 3 Session 4 (12-4-RC) Jun 25 – 29 Session 10 (12-10-RC) Aug 13 – 17 Session 6 (12-6-RC) Jul 16 – 20

Kline Creek Farmhands

Session 4 Jul 16, 19, 20 Session 5 Jul 23, 26, 27 Session 6 Jul 30, Aug 2, 3

2012 Camps for Kids

Camp FBW

spring calendar

Family Field Day at St. James Farm

Fishing Clinic for Active Adults

Bring the family for a celebration of St. James Farm’s heritage, featuring canine and equestrian performances, a dairy exhibit, vintage tractors and hybrid vehicles, haywagon rides, interpretive tours, children’s activities, music, food, and more. All ages. Free admission and parking. $5 per family for some activities. Registration not required. Call (630) 933-7248.

Get started or reacquainted with fishing through this two-part series for active adults that includes indoor instruction and hands-on experience. Ages 50 and up. Free. Registration begins April 19. Call (630) 933-7248.

May 26

Fishing Clinic for Beginners

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

St. James Farm

Field Exploration Observe birds, butterflies and wildflowers in bloom. Ages 8 and up; under 14 with an adult. Free. Groups of 10 or more must register. Call (630) 293-1627. Jun 10

8 – 11 a.m.

West Chicago Prairie

May 3 May 10

9 – 11 a.m. 9 – 11 a.m.

Mayslake Fullersburg Woods

Learn fish ecology and identification as well as techniques and regulations. Ages 6 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. May 18 Jun 1 Jun 15

5 – 7 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m.

Herrick Lake Herrick Lake St. James Farm

Fishing 101

Fishing Clinic for Kids

Learn the basics of fishing through indoor instruction and hands-on experience. Adults only. Free. Registration begins April 24. Call (630) 933-7248.

Kids, learn about different kinds of fish, the best ways to catch them and rules you need to remember. Ages 6 – 17 with an adult. Free. Registration begins May 4. Call (630) 933-7248.

May 8

4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Mayslake

May 18

6 – 8 p.m.

Hidden Lake

Fishing Flowing Waters Learn techniques for fishing in rivers and streams at this intermediate-level clinic. Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins April 13. Call (630) 933-7248. Apr 27

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Fullersburg Woods

Fishing for Bass Check out some of the most effective bass lures on the market, and try them on one of the county’s best bass lakes. Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins June 1. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 15

Family Camping Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville The family campground is open weekends and holidays May 4 through Sept. 30 and daily June 29 through July 8. Nature programs are offered all season. For permits and information, call (630) 933-7248.

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

6 – 8 p.m.

East Branch

Fishing for Carp Learn how to pursue one of the most overlooked yet entertaining fish to catch. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins May 11. Call (630) 933-7248. May 25

6 – 8 p.m.

Churchill Woods

Fishing for Catfish

FullersBird Fridays

Pick up tips for catching one of North America’s favorite game fish at this hands-on clinic. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins May 25. Call (630) 933-7248.

Join these naturalist-led hikes, and see how the diversity of birds in a forest preserve changes throughout spring. Adults only. $6 per person per hike; $40 for a 10-program pass. To register, call (630) 850-8110.

Jun 8

6 – 8 p.m.

Songbird Slough

Fishing off the Beaten Path Take a hike, and go fish! Join a ranger for a 2-mile hike with fishing along the way. Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins May 17. Call (630) 933-7248. May 31

4 – 7 p.m.

Waterfall Glen

Forest Fitness Walk Join a naturalist for a brisk weekly walk, and enjoy some healthy exercise as you take in the wonders of the woods. Adults only. Free. To register, call (630) 850-8110. Apr 2 Apr 9 Apr 16 Apr 30 May 7 May 14 May 21 Jun 4 Jun 11

8:30 8:30 8:30 8:30 8:30 8:30 8:30 8:30 8:30

– – – – – – – – –

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m.

Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 27 May 4 May 11 May 18 May 25 Jun 1 Jun 8 Jun 15

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

– – – – – – – – – –

9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30 9:30

a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m.

Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg Fullersburg

Woods Woods Woods Woods Woods Woods Woods Woods Woods Woods

Fullersburg Woods Fullersburg Woods Wood Dale Grove Waterfall Glen Maple Grove Meacham Grove Danada Springbrook Prairie Fullersburg Woods

Golfing Forest Preserve District golf clubs are open late March through late November. Outings and leagues are available at these three distinct facilities for golfers of all abilities. For details and specials, visit dupagegolf.com.

Froggin’ Under the Stars Identify local frog species by their calls while learning about spring stars and constellations. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult. $5 per person. To register, call (630) 850-8110. Apr 27 May 18 May 25

7:30 – 9:30 p.m. 8 – 10 p.m. 8 – 10 p.m.

James “Pate” Philip State Park James “Pate” Philip State Park James “Pate” Philip State Park

Oak Meadows Golf Club 18 Holes & Practice Facility Addison (630) 595-0071

Maple Meadows Golf Club 27 Holes Wood Dale (630) 616-8424

Green Meadows Golf Club 9 Holes Westmont (630) 810-5330

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spring calendar

Geocaching at Greene Valley Try a popular treasure-hunting activity from one of the highest points in DuPage County. All ages; under 16 with an adult. Free. Registration begins May 29. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 9

2 – 3:30 p.m.

Greene Valley

Geocaching for Active Adults See a geocaching demonstration, and then use a GPS unit to discover hidden caches. Ages 50 and up. Free. Registration begins April 11. Call (630) 933-7248. Apr 25

10 a.m. – noon

Go Green! A Celebration of Conservation Celebrate conservation through a day of fun while helping to change and support our planet. Enjoy hands-on activities, crafts and games, and discover ways to “go green” and be ecofriendly. Activities ongoing. All ages. Free admission. Fees for some activities. Registration not required. Call (630) 850-8110. Apr 22

Noon – 4 p.m.

Fullersburg Woods

Mayslake

Historic Country Estate St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville Spend time exploring the Forest Preserve District’s newest offering, from its historic dairy and equestrian buildings to its sculptures and other art. The forest preserve is open for “Family Field Day at St. James Farm” on May 26 (See the calendar listing for more details.) and then daily June through November from one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset.

Helping Hands at Herrick Lake

QUAIL-WAGON TOURS Enjoy a 30-minute guided quail-wagon ride, and learn about the natural and cultural history of St. James Farm along the way. $5 per person ages 13 – 54; $4 ages 55 and up; $2 ages 5 – 12; under 5 free. Registration not required. Call (630) 933-7248.

Home-Schoolers Nature Hike

June 2 – Nov. 28 Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

Celebrate Earth Day by removing litter from a popular forest preserve. All ages; under 14 with an adult. Free. To register, call (630) 933-7681 at least five business days in advance; groups of five or more must call 10 days in advance. Apr 21

9 a.m. – noon

Herrick Lake

Learn about natural and cultural history while exploring different forest preserves. Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult. $5 per family. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 942-6200. Apr 17 May 10 Jun 14

9 – 11 a.m. 9 – 11 a.m. 9 – 11:30 a.m.

Waterfall Glen West Chicago Prairie Hawk Hollow

International Migratory Bird Day Celebration

Kayaking for Active Adults

Have a flock of fun celebrating avian migration. Activities ongoing. Free. Registration not required. Call (630) 942-6200. May 12

Try your hand at kayaking after learning basic techniques, watercraft safety and preserve information. Equipment provided. Ages 50 and up. $20 per person. Registration begins May 9. Call (630) 933-7248.

8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Willowbrook

8 – 9:30 a.m.

Bird Walk for Adults Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult.

May 23

9 – 10:30 a.m.

Bird Walk for Beginners Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult.

9 – 11 a.m.

Bird-Banding Demonstration Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult.

Hike to the site where a woolly mammoth was unearthed decades ago, and hear the story of its discovery. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins June 8. Call (630) 942-6200.

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Hidden Lake

Mammoth Hike

Jun 22

10 a.m. – noon

Blackwell

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Kids Activity Station

Mayslake at Night

10:30 – 11:45 a.m.

Kids Bird Walk Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult.

Explore a forest preserve after closing time, including the mansion grounds, woods and lakeshore, and experience the nighttime sights and sounds. Ages 6 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins April 23. Call (630) 206-9581.

Introduction to Prescription Burns

May 5

7:30 – 9 p.m.

Mayslake

Hear about the how, when and why of the District’s prescription-burn program, and see a burn in progress, weather permitting. All ages; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins April 2. Call (630) 933-7248. Apr 15

1 – 3 p.m.

Herrick Lake

Just for Kids Fishing Derby Join the 26th year of this friendly fishing competition that’s just for kids 15 and younger. Bring your own gear. Bait provided while supplies last. Free. Register at the event. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 10

8 a.m. – noon

Blackwell

Horse-Drawn Hayrides

Kayaking Basics Learn the basics of kayaking, including parts of the boat and paddling strokes. Equipment provided. Ages 14 and up; under 18 with an adult. $20 per person. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. May 11 May 16 Jun 18

2 – 4 p.m. 5 – 7 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m.

Herrick Lake Hidden Lake Herrick Lake

Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton Take a 30-minute ride through the prairies and woodlands of Danada Forest Preserve, and learn about the features of this historic preserve. $5 per person ages 13 and up; $2 ages 5 – 12; under 5 free. Groups of 15 or more are encouraged to reserve private hayrides. Call (630) 668-6012. May 5 – June 30 (except May 26 and 27) Saturdays and Sundays Noon – 3:45 p.m.

d u p a g e f o re s t . o r g

spring calendar

Meet the Beaver Learn about the natural and cultural history of these interesting rodents. Ages 7 – 13 with an adult. Free. Registration begins April 21. Call (630) 942-6200. May 5

10 a.m. – noon

Willowbrook

Memorial Day Remembered Honor America’s soldiers through traditional speeches and activities of the 1890s “Decoration Day,” the precursor to today’s Memorial Day. Held in partnership with the Center for History. All ages. Free. Registration not required. Call (630) 876-5900. May 28

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Kline Creek Farm

Native-Plant Sale Monitoring Monarchs Learn about our state insect, the monarch butterfly. Search for its eggs and caterpillars, and find out how you can help monitor the monarch population at Fullersburg Woods. Ages 7 and up; under 12 with an adult. $3 per person. To register, call (630) 850-8110. Jun 23

10 – 11 a.m.

Fullersburg Woods

Get your garden off to a great start with plants adapted to DuPage County conditions, and get expert advice from a naturalist ready to guide you with plant selection and garden design. Proceeds support educational programming at the District. Catalog available at dupageforest.org/nativeplantsale. Call (630) 933-7208. May 11 May 12

9 a.m. – 7 p.m. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Mayslake Mayslake

Nuisance Wildlife of DuPage Learn why certain animals are a nuisance and how to effectively handle encounters. Ages 7 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins April 2. Call (630) 933-7248. Apr 14

11 a.m. – noon

Blackwell

Paddle With a Ranger Bring your own kayak or canoe, and join a ranger for a paddle. Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins two weeks prior. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 13 Jun 26

Scenic Overlook Greene Valley Forest Preserve in Naperville The overlook is open weekends May through October from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., weather permitting. For additional information, call (630) 792-2100.

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon

Fullersburg Woods Hidden Lake

Prairie Path Cleanup Participate in the annual Illinois Prairie Path trail cleanup by removing litter along the Geneva Spur through West Chicago Prairie. Ages 8 and up; under 14 with an adult. Free. Groups of 10 or more must register. Call (630) 293-1627. Apr 28

9 a.m. – noon

West Chicago Prairie

Ranger Trek Junior

St. James Farm Caboose Tour

Learn about the critters that call the forest preserves home, and join a ranger on a hike to explore different habitats. Ages 10 and under with an adult. Free. Registration begins June 6. Call (630) 933-7248.

Take a 30- to 45-minute tour of the 1906 Chicago Burlington & Quincy caboose. Learn about the history of the CA&E Railroad, including its connection to St. James Farm, and what life was like for the conductor and the brakemen. Tours begin on the hour. All ages; under 13 with an adult. $2 per person ages 13 and up; $1 ages 5 – 12; under 5 free. Registration not required. Call (630) 933-7248.

Jun 20

10 – 11:30 a.m.

Waterfall Glen

Ride the Trails Tour several forest preserves during this 15- to 20-mile ranger-led bike ride along the Salt Creek Greenway Trail. Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult. Free. Registration begins June 11. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 23

9 a.m. – noon

Cricket Creek

Jun Jun Jun Jun

9 10 23 24

11 11 11 11

a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m.

– – – –

3 3 3 3

p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.

St. St. St. St.

James James James James

Farm Farm Farm Farm

St. James Farm Walking Tour Learn about the natural and cultural history of St. James Farm during a leisurely 1-mile guided walk. All ages; under 13 with an adult. Free. Registration not required. Call (630) 933-7248. Jun 16

1:30 – 3 p.m.

St. James Farm

Sheep Shearing Watch as farmhands shear sheep. Then, learn how washed wool becomes spun yarn. Activities ongoing. All ages. Free. Registration not required. Call (630) 876-5900. Apr 21 Apr 22

10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Kline Creek Farm Kline Creek Farm

Trout Fishing Spring Into Volunteering Show Earth a little kindness, and help clean up one of DuPage County’s most popular preserves. All ages; under 14 with an adult. Free. To register, call (630) 933-7681 at least five business days in advance; groups of five or more must call 10 business days in advance. Apr 14

9 a.m. – noon

Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville Pratt’s Wayne Woods Forest Preserve in Wayne Wood Dale Grove Forest Preserve in Wood Dale Spring trout season opens April 7 at 6 a.m. Anglers 16 and up must possess valid Illinois fishing licenses with Inland Trout Stamps. Call (630) 933-7248 for details.

Spring Creek Reservoir

d u p a g e f o re s t . o r g

spring calendar

Strings, Swing and Gershwin

WDCB Jazz Salon at Mayslake

Enjoy an evening of jazzy classical music featuring members of the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra. Ages 8 and up; under 16 with an adult. $25 per person for general admission; $7 for students; $20 for groups of 10 or more. For tickets, call (630) 941-0202.

Enjoy an evening of high-quality jazz brought to you by Mayslake Peabody Estate, WDCB Public Radio and the PianoForte Foundation. Ages 12 and up; under 18 with an adult. $25 per person for cabaret seating; $20 for general admission; $18 for seniors over 65, students and groups of six or more. For tickets, call (630) 206-9566.

May 3

7:30 – 9 p.m.

Mayslake

Jun 14

7:30 – 9 p.m.

Volunteer Native-Plant-Nursery Workday Help the District’s Habitat Improvement Program by lending a hand at the nursery. Weed and water plant beds, or collect and clean seed. Ages 12 and up; under 16 with an adult. Free. To register, call (630) 933-7681 at least five business days in advance; groups of five or more must call 10 business days in advance. Apr 21 Apr 25 May 8 May 19 May 30 Jun 5 Jun 21 Jun 30

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

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11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11

a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m.

Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds Blackwell/Grounds

& & & & & & & &

Resources Resources Resources Resources Resources Resources Resources Resources

Mayslake Elmhurst College Jazz Band

Complex Complex Complex Complex Complex Complex Complex Complex

Volunteer Restoration Workday Help restore a natural area by removing nonnative vegetation or planting seed. Ages 8 and up; under 14 with an adult. Free. To register, call (630) 933-7681 at least five business days in advance; groups of five or more must call 10 business days in advance. Apr 7 Apr 14 Apr 14 Apr 21 Apr 21 May 12 May 19 Jun 9 Jun 16

9 a.m. – noon 9 a.m. – noon 8 – 10:30 a.m. 1:30 – 4 p.m. 1 – 4 p.m. 9 a.m. – noon 8 – 10:30 a.m. 9 a.m. – noon 8 – 10:30 a.m.

Springbrook Prairie Fullersburg Woods Lyman Woods Danada Springbrook Prairie Fullersburg Woods Lyman Woods Fullersburg Woods Lyman Woods

Ages 8 and up; under 14 with an adult. Free. Groups of 10 or more must register. Call (630) 293-1627. May 19

9 a.m. – noon

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

West Chicago Prairie

Wreaths for Wildlife Learn about and view the nests of different kinds of birds, and build a nesting wreath that birds can pick from as they build their homes. Ages 8 and up; under 13 with an adult. $5 per craft. Registration begins April 2. Call (630) 942-6200. Apr 29

1:30 – 3 p.m.

Willowbrook

Writing Workshop: Writing for Children and Teens In this seven-part series, develop the appropriate “voice” for works for children. Receive critiques of your own work, and learn how to study the works of others. Adults only. $170 per person. To register, call (630) 206-9566. May 8 – Jun 26 7 – 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays (except May 29)

Mayslake

Rain garden at Danada House at Danada Forest Preserve

RAIN GARDENS in DuPage County by SCOTT KOBAL, FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT ECOLOGIST

n these days of increased environmental

awareness, you may hear how more and more people in DuPage County are incorporating rain gardens into their landscaping. But what exactly is a rain garden, and why should you consider planting one? As its name suggests, a rain garden is a small area planted with deep-rooted vegetation that soaks up rainwater, mainly the runoff from the roof of your home. After a rain, the garden fills with water, sometimes a few inches. The water then slowly filters into the ground instead of running into a storm drain. Like any other landscaping, a rain garden can be an attractive part of a yard and neighborhood, and you can find a good location for one by working with the natural drainage pattern around your home. Note the direction of water runoff, particularly from downspouts, and low spots where water naturally flows. If these areas are downhill at least 10 feet away from any foundation and are in full or partial sun, you have a good place for a future garden. It might seem ideal to place a rain garden in an area that regularly gathers longlasting puddles, but standing water is a sign of poor drainage, and that is the opposite of how a rain garden should function. One common misconception about rain gardens worth addressing is that they attract mosquitoes. Mosquitoes, though, must be in standing water for seven to 12 days to develop from eggs to adults, and a properly functioning rain garden dries between rains often in far less time. Birdbaths, storm sewers, planter boxes and lawns are much more likely

to become mosquito breeding grounds. (Besides, rain gardens can attract dragonflies, which eat mosquitoes!) As you start to design your rain garden, consider the height and spread of different kinds of plants, their colors, and when they bloom. Using plants that bloom at different times of the year, for instance, means that you can enjoy flowers throughout the seasons. But don’t limit your design to only flowers. Incorporating a diverse mix of grasses, sedges, rushes and flowers not only enhances the beauty and texture of the garden but also creates the necessary root competition that allows plants, native plants especially, to thrive in balance and not overtake other species. In any type of garden, native plant species are ideal because they do not require fertilizer, they tolerate our climate, and they attract wildlife, such as birds and butterflies. As with all plants, some need full sun, but others may do well in partial shade. Many may need certain soil and drainage conditions, which will vary from one spot in your yard to another. Native species may take longer to establish than more traditional plant choices, but homeowners will be rewarded with fewer weeds, plants that don’t spread uncontrollably from year to year and generally low maintenance. So now that you know what rain gardens are, why are they so important? As DuPage County has grown, natural areas and agricultural fields have turned into homes, businesses and “impervious” surfaces, such as roads, driveways, parking lots and even dense lawns, that prevent rainwater from reaching

Eye-Catching Native Plants for DuPage County Rain Gardens

The Conservationist

Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Blue Flag (Iris virginica shrevei)

This plant grows 3 to 4 feet tall, and as its name suggests, it prefers moist places. Its fragrant small pink flowers bloom in summer and are quite attractive to butterflies, especially monarchs, whose caterpillars feed on its leaves.

This 2- to 3-foot-tall iris has sword-shaped bright mediumgreen leaves. Its nonfragrant violet-blue flowers have falls crested with yellow and white.

New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae)

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

This eye-catching aster will reach 3 to 6 feet tall. From late summer to early fall, it features large blooms of daisylike flowers with purple rays and yellow centers, which attract butterflies.

This striking 2- to 5-foot-tall plant has beautiful scarlet flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

| Spring 2012

and soaking into the soil. As a result, much of our rainwater flows directly into our streets, then down storm drains and into our rivers, streams and lakes. This untreated water carries with it pollutants like oil, salt, fertilizers, pesticides, pet waste, sediment and a number of other elements that harm the supply of fresh water. A substantial amount of this pollution is from runoff from our own yards and gardens. On a large scale, healthy wetland habitats in forest preserves serve as natural temporary holding areas for rainfall and runoff, places where the water can slowly seep into the ground, which then filters out any pollutants. On a smaller scale, though, suburban rain gardens can serve a similar role. They slow the rush of water across impervious surfaces and hold it for short periods of time, allowing it to naturally infiltrate into the ground. They can absorb 30 to 40 percent more water than typical turf lawns and improve water quality by capturing pollutants before they reach our rivers and streams. Rain gardens with native species are especially beneficial because the plants have extensive root systems that break up hard soils and guide water and nutrients deep into the ground. If you’re ready to get started, there are several gardening books, online resources and local nurseries that specialize in native plants that can help. Information on the District’s own annual Native-Plant Sale is featured in the box to the right. Overall, a rain garden can be not only a beautiful addition to your property but also an important contribution to cleaner water. •

GET YOUR GARDEN GROWING Whether you’re planning a rain garden or looking for intriguing additions to your landscaping, head to the District’s annual Native-Plant Sale at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook on May 11 and 12. The sale will have over 100 species of native flowers, grasses, ferns, shrubs and trees suitable for sun or shade and tolerant of DuPage conditions. Experienced staff will be on hand to help you select plants and design your garden. See the Native-Plant Sale listing on Page 18 for times. For a list of plants, prices and preorder information, visit dupageforest.org/nativeplantsale, or call (630) 933-7208. Proceeds from the sale will support educational programming at the District.

Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans) This grass can reach 3 to 7 feet tall. It has broad blue-green blades and handsome 6- to10-inch-tall plumes. In fall, it produces glossy seed heads.

This is a clump-forming perennial that grows 3 to 5 feet tall. It produces tubular, two-lipped white flowers.

Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum) © Beverly Turner, Jackson Minnesota, Bugwood.org

Foxglove Beard Tongue (Penstemon digitalis)

This 3- to 7-foot-tall plant has large yellow flowers and is clumped in large areas. The stout joined leaves at the stem form a small cup that holds water and attracts birds.

Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) This fine-textured grass grows in fountainlike clumps up to 2 feet tall. Its leaves curve gracefully outward. Seed heads appear in midsummer, and in fall the plant turns a bronzy tan. It remains standing even when covered with snow.

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explore

Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve

Picking a New Point of View by DAVE ANDRUSYK, NATURALIST, FULLERSBURG WOODS NATURE EDUCATION CENTER

6 M

ost know Fullersburg Woods Forest

Preserve in Oak Brook as a place booming with smiles, natural history and a feeling all its own. It’s a place that’s easy to describe through the eyes of a grown-up — sky above and trees below — but what about through the eyes of a younger visitor with a 3- to 4-foot-high line-of-sight charged by wonder and zest? From the moment you hop out of your car seat, you’re surrounded by towering trees, some of them older than the oldest person you know. There’s a building, too, a visitor center with pictures and puppets, a giant bird’s nest, and lots to do inside, but you’ll save that for another day when the weather’s not so nice. Instead, you follow your group to the water, Salt Creek. A hundred years ago, long before DVDs and water parks, children your age spent their free time ice skating or fishing here. The water’s not salty, though, and it’s not really a creek. (Grown-ups can give things goofy names.) It’s as wide as half a football field, and if the tallest person in your group stood in the middle, that person would likely be underwater. You follow a trail downstream and spot some low-hanging branches that form a cubbyhole just your size, so you tuck yourself in and pretend to hide. But in front of some streamhugging shrubs, something glowing and white is moving slowly on the water. Curiosity shoots through your legs, and you run down the trail until you find a break in the bushes. There in the shallows is the biggest bird you’ve ever seen, a bird that’s as tall as you with pencil-thin legs and a long, snaking neck. It’s watching something in the water, but before you can see what’s grabbed its attention, it plunges its head below and snaps back with a sunfish it speared with its

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

bill. It gobbles its catch whole before the last drip of water hits the river. A great egret has just had lunch. In 10 or 15 minutes your group reaches the front of an old brick building, the Graue Mill. Inside you can learn how people turned corn on the cob into muffins and why something called the Underground Railroad was so important, but again, you’ll save that for another day. You skip around the far side and back toward the water, but at the short wooden bridge you stop in your tracks. There’s a splashing, gurgling sound that’s also squeaking! You look up over the top of the railing and even over the tallest grown-up; your mouth and eyes open wide with amazement. There on the side of the mill is an enormous wooden wheel, and the water pouring in from the creek is making it spin. As you walk next to it, you wonder how many paddles it has and how long it takes to go around just once. You have no idea what it does, but it’s fun to watch. Beyond the wheel, you think you hear a gigantic faucet filling a tub, but it’s actually Salt Creek tumbling over a concrete wall that stretches from shore to shore. Beside it are stone steps, boulders and logs, all nature-made places for watching wildlife, such as that squat black-and-white bird that’s looking right at you. Is that a penguin? No, it’s a marsh bird called a black-crowned night heron. (The people who work at Fullersburg Woods get penguin questions all the time, though.) On the way back to the car, the grown-ups’ eyes are hung up on the trees, but you focus on something that’s right at your feet: the hundreds of spring wildflowers that have pushed aside last year’s fallen oak leaves, flowers with names like spring beauty, bloodroot and trillium. You start to see spots,

Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)

White trout lily (Erythronium albidum)

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)

Quick Look at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve O ak B r o o k R d . / 3 1 s t S t .

Paul Butler Nature Area

Interpretive Trail Multipurpose Trail

Wildflower Trail

Visitor Resource Center Center

BRIDGE CLOSED

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too, lots of spots, but it’s not your imagination. They’re the spotted leaves of trout lilies, which reminded people of the speckled sides of the popular fish. You’d like to pick a few, but you know you must leave them as they are because you’re in a forest preserve. Besides, it’s beginning to snow. Snow? Well, it’s really the falling seeds of a cottonwood tree, but you can pretend it’s snow if you’d like. Back near the entrance to the parking lot, you cross a lonely bridge on the right and reach the last stop of the day, Sycamore Island. Their peeling bark makes you think the sycamore trees must be sick, but they’re not. You hop over a log or two, and like a real explorer you discover animal tracks and two painted turtles soaking up the sun. Their yellow and orange stripes are so bright in the light! What a cool spot. And what a cool time of year to visit Fullersburg Woods. •

Great egret (Ardea alba)

Sycamore Island

Full-Grown Fullersburg Facts • The visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. • The trail from the Sycamore Island bridge to the mill is about half a mile one way. • Graue Mill opened in 1852. The water wheel turns gears inside that grind corn into meal. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. mid-April through mid-November. • The original mill dam was built in 1837. The Civilian Conservation Corps built the current dam in 1935. • The creek banks and islands can be muddy, so be prepared!

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ree

Graue Mill & Museum

North Graue House

Fuller House

For a detailed map of Fullersburg Woods, visit dupageforest.org.

d u p a g e f o re s t . o r g

directory EDUCATION Centers DANADA EQUESTRIAN CENTER 3S503 Naperville Road Wheaton, IL 60189 (630) 668-6012 The center’s office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is closed on Saturday, Sunday and select holidays.

GENERAL Contacts

GOLF Clubs

HEADQUARTERS

GREEN MEADOWS GOLF CLUB 18W201 W. 63rd St. Westmont, IL 60559 (630) 810-5330

Street Address 3S580 Naperville Road Wheaton, IL 60189 The headquarters office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is closed on Saturday, Sunday and select holidays. Mailing Address P.O. Box 5000 Wheaton, IL 60189

MAPLE MEADOWS GOLF CLUB 272 S. Addison Road Wood Dale, IL 60191 (630) 616-8424 OAK MEADOWS GOLF CLUB 900 N. Wood Dale Road Addison, IL 60101 (630) 595-0071

Website dupageforest.org

FULLERSBURG WOODS NATURE EDUCATION CENTER 3609 Spring Road Oak Brook, IL 60523 (630) 850-8110 The center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on select holidays. KLINE CREEK FARM 1N600 County Farm Road West Chicago, IL 60185 (630) 876-5900 The farm is open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on Tuesday, Wednesday and select holidays.

Main Number (630) 933-7200

MAYSLAKE PEABODY ESTATE 1717 W. 31st St. Oak Brook, IL 60523 (630) 206-9566

TTY (800) 526-0857

The estate is open only during scheduled programs and events.

THE CONSERVATIONIST SUBSCRIPTION LINE (630) 933-7085

WILLOWBROOK WILDLIFE CENTER 525 S. Park Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 (630) 942-6200

E-Mail Address forest@dupageforest.org

FUNDRAISING AND DEVELOPMENT (630) 933-7097 LAW ENFORCEMENT (630) 933-7240 THE OUTDOOR REPORT (630) 871-6422 VISITOR SERVICES (630) 933-7248 VOLUNTEER SERVICES (630) 933-7681 26

The Conservationist

| Spring 2012

PRESERVE Hours Most forest preserves are open daily from one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset.

ACCESSIBILITY Individuals with accessibility needs or concerns should contact the District’s ADA coordinator at (630) 933-7683 or TTY (800) 526-0857 at least three business days before their visit.

The center and the surrounding Willowbrook Forest Preserve are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are closed on select holidays.

o Blo

l v d. P a rk B

Highland Ave. Rd .

Grove Ave.

Main St.

Ave.

7 5 t h St .

Greene Rd.

355

Greene Valley

L e mo n

Hobson Rd.

Willowbrook

Fairview Ave.

e Rd. Yackl ey

Co l le g

Wehrli Rd.

83 63rd St.

63rd St.

ails Dr.

Ranch View Dr.

Na p e r B l v d .

Washin gt o n S t .

Hickory Grove

75 th S t. Lyman Ave.

M a nni ng

Fox Hollow

79t h S t .

Green Meadows Golf Course

Plain

83rd St.

f iel d

Old fi

8 7t h S t .

Oldfield Oaks

North

Waterfall Glen

Burr Ridge

91st St.

Northgate Rd.

sA v e.

Des Plaines Riverway

Entrance/Parking

U.S. Route

Jointly Owned, Leased or Operated Forest Preserve Property

Forest Preserve Trail

State Route

Salt Creek Greenway Trail

Interstate Route

County Trail

*Unofficial Name

Lake/Pond/Waterway Wetland

Pkwy.

Inte r

tionale na

L e mo n t R d .

Westgate Rd.

Forest Preserve Property

Wood Ridge

Bluff Rd.

Darien 55

eld R

R iet

Rd .

Woodridge

West Branch Riverway

Oak Grove J ol

Elm Rd.

ard

St .

N a p e r v i ll e R d .

n ch

B la

War ren

. d.

l le R

Na p

ervi

Westmont

Maple Grove

East Branch DuPage River

Egermann Woods

Goodrich Woods

t. hS

Hinsdale 55 t h S t .

ARGONNE NATIONAL LABORATORY

Bluff Rd.

Des Plaines River

C o u n ty L i n e R d .

Sw i f t Rd .

Gl e n E l l y n R d .

M ai n S t .

Cr e

M a in S t .

P a rk B l v d .

West St.

vi lle R

Orchard Rd.

ck R d.

Me y e r s R d.

Schmale Rd.

Gary Ave.

Kuhn Rd.

C o u n ty F a r m R d .

eld

inf i

H e rr i

pl e

Clarendon Hills Rd.

B o ok R d .

lle

Cass Ave.

Modaff Rd.

Plainfield-Naperville Rd.

Springbrook Prairie Montgomery Rd. 83rd St.

rt Ga

e rv i

Brush Hill Clarendon H i l l s Chicago Ave. Rd.

. Ave

Gilbert Ave.

Hitchcock Ave.

N ap

Main St.

Green Tr

West Branch DuPage River

Rickert Dr.

le Av

Abbeywood Dr.

Pioneer Park

ve . en A 7 5t h S t . Og d

ri n

Garfield Ave.

C h ic a

Lyman Woods

Downers Grove

Woodward Ave.

Ma p

ve. go A

Jackson Ave.

ve . Aurora A

l ey

3 5 t h S t.

Madison St.

er R d .

Aurora

A a s ve .

F in

Be l m o n t R d .

vd.

Riv

New York S

ug l

Lisle

Salt Creek

Mayslake

Hitchcock Woods Hitchcock Ave.

294

Rd .

York Rd.

vi l le R

THE MOR TON ARBORETUM

York Woods

Oak Brook 31st St. Oakbrook Rd.

Danada

r Rd .

B ut te r f i e l d Rd .

el d R

2 2n d S t .

Hidden Lake

urora Rd. Do

Willowbrook

terf i

A d a m s S t.

Winfield Rd.

Wheaton

Naperville

v e. Jefferson A

F a we ll B lv d .

Bu t

H a r g er

Cass Ave.

R iv e

Naper Bl

Shore Rd.

ndo

H i g h R i d g e R d.

York/High Ridge Oakbrook Te r r a c e

War ren

Washington St.

Frontenac Rd.

Mi l l S t .

E ol a Rd .

Pla

Dr.

No r t h A

McDowell Grove

ond

Country Lakes*

Night Heron Marsh L i be r t y S t

D ie h l R d .

R ay m

ur ra Sp

Herrick Lake

ur Batavia Sp D i e hl R d . Auro

broo

Salt Creek Greenway

Midwest Ave.

ei s W

u Sp

Wilson Ave.

East Branch Riverway

Roosevelt Rd.

k Ln

Pkwy.

Rd ter .

Glen Oak

Illinois P rairie Pat h

Path

Villa Park

Le a s

Bil

Illinois Prairie

York Rd.

Pa Du

B i l te r R d .

Big Woods

F i nl e y R d .

Ma c k R d .

Ferry Rd.

Glen Ellyn

Rd .

Belleau Woods

Schaffner Rd.

Rd .

CANTIGNY

Blackwell

Fe r r y Rd .

ania Ave.

B lv

S t. C h a r l e s R d .

Rd.

St. James r a Farm A u r o

Warrenville Grove

sylv

Elmhurst

Lombard

Churchill d. Woods

Sp r i n g

ell W

Co l l e

s te r n che

Hill Ave.

ge R d.

Broadview Slough

sc e

Grand Ave.

Cricket Creek

Villa Ave.

DUPAGE COUNTY COMPLEX

290

Fullerton Park

Churchill Park

H ar ris o n S t .

Fischer Woods

Old Grand Ave.

Summit Ave.

R d.

Warrenville

Lincoln Marsh

Tr a i l S t. C harle sR

Jefferson St.

3rd Ave.

Fullerton Ave.

Highland Ave.

FERMI NATIONAL ACCELERATOR LABORATORY

Community Park

Rd . ell Harrison Ave. Je w

’s Mill Rd. G ary

Western

Dr.

Ardmore Ave.

R d.

Winfield

via

Addison

Westmore Ave.

Winfield Mounds

West DuPage Woods

Fabyan Pkwy.

Great

M a in S t .

Prince Crossing Rd.

Industrial Dr.

K no ll R d .

G en e v a R d .

Highla ke

Burdette Ave.

r le s Rd .

G e n e v a Rd .

Geneva Spur

East Branch

Glendale Heights Black Willow Marsh

Kline Creek Farm

Kress Rd.

S t . Ch a Ind

Kautz Rd.

Downs Dr.

Ba t a

Grace St.

North Av

Arbor Ave.

West Chicago Prairie

t on S

Oak Meadows

Church Rd.

Gerber R

Fa i r O a k s R d .

Klein Rd.

Timber Ridge

Hawthorne Ln.

in g Wash

Oak Meadows Golf Club Wood Dale Grove

York Rd.

West Chicago

P o w i s Rd .

DUPAGE COUNTY AIRPOR T

Bensenville

Elizabeth Dr.

Carol Stream

St. Charles

Wood Dale Silver Creek

ve. V i ll a A

. El

d i th R

Walter Dr.

Songbird Slough

M il l R d .

Wayne

Army Trail Rd.

West Branch

R o h lw i n g R d .

S m i th R

355

Foster Ave.

School St.

Maple Salt Creek Park Meadows Montrose Ave. 83 Golf Club

La k

Swift Prairie

al e R

c Rd .

Medinah Rd.

Morton Rd.

Nordi

S c h i c k Rd .

d ng mi

CHICAGO O’HARE INT’L. AIRPOR T

Ave.

Wood Dale/ Itasca Reservoir

A d di s on R d .

Springbrook Creek

Bloomingdale

Spring Creek Reservoir

Mallard Lake

B l o o m i n gd a l e R d .

Munger Rd.

P o w i s Rd

Dunham

Park R

Prospect Ave.

Medinah Rd.

B lv d.

Roselle Rd.

B a rt l e t t Rd .

Ave. rcle

S c hi c k R d .

Meacham Grove

Thorn Rd.

Pratt Pratt’s ’ss Wayne Woods

Cloverdale Rd.

Hawk Hollow

Irving

Salt Creek 290 Marsh Itasca

Elk Grove T ho r n d a l e

R d.

Roselle

Wood Dale

k roo

are

Rd .

Greenb

O’ H

ts.

Wayne Grove

Stearns Rd.

Hanover Park

Devon Ave.

Medinah Wetlands*

Bartlett

Arlingto

E lg

Devon Ave.

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PA I D Carol Stream, IL Permit No. 96

P.O. Box 5000 Wheaton, IL 60189-5000 (630) 933-7200 dupageforest.org

please deliver to current resident

t he

Conse nserrvationist

A Quarterly Publication of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Spring 2012

when ÂŠ Mike Shimer

dupageforest.org

Good things happen when you make the best of a rainy day. St. James Farm Forest Preserve, Warrenville