The mission of the Forest Preserve District of Kane County is to acquire, hold and maintain lands within Kane County that contribute to the conservation of natural and historic resources, habitats, flora and fauna; and to restore, restock, protect and preserve such lands for the environmental education, recreation, pleasure and wellbeing of all Kane County citizens.
The District is governed by the Forest Preserve Commission. Kane County Board members serve as the Forest Preserve Commission. They are:
Bill Lenert, President, District 5
Mavis Bates, President Pro Tem, District 4
Myrna Molina, Secretary, District 1
Dale Berman, District 2
Anita Marie Lewis, District 3
Sonia Garcia, District 6
Alex Arroyo, District 7
Michelle Gumz, District 8
Gary Daugherty, District 9
Bill Tarver, District 10
Leslie Juby, District 11
Bill Roth, District 12
Michael Linder, District 13
Jon Gripe, District 14
David Young, District 15
Ted Penesis, District 16
Deborah Allan, District 17
Rick Williams, District 18
Mohammad Iqbal, District 19
Cheryl Fritz Strathmann, District 20
Cliff Surges, District 21
Vern Tepe, District 22
Christopher W. Kious, District 23
Jarett Sanchez, District 24
The TreeLine is published quarterly by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. Issues are mailed or emailed to all subscribers, based on their preference. To subscribe to the print or electronic edition (or both), call 630-232-5980 or email forestpreserve@kaneforest.com and request your free subscription to The TreeLine.
Benjamin Haberthur, Executive Director
Laurie Metanchuk, Director of Community Engagement
The Forest Preserve District of Kane County has been recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA). The two statewide associations administer the Illinois Distinguished Accreditation program with the goal of improving the delivery of park and recreation services to Illinois residents.
Cover Photo
Golden sunlight filters through the autumn canopy at Bliss Woods Forest Preserve.
Photo by Senior Ranger Alex Donat
Fall is proof that change is beautiful! Program registration is open
All-Ages Programs
All ages are welcome to attend District programs unless otherwise specified. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Organized parties must schedule a separate tour. Advance registration is required for all nature programs, unless otherwise specified.
Open Fishing Clinic
Join the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Urban and Community Fishing Program for an evening of fishing fun at Lake Patterson. Instructors will teach participants basic angling skills including casting, knot tying and fish identification, while demonstrating ethical angling practices. Participants can bring their own equipment or borrow loaner tackle and rods while supplies last. Illinois fishing regulations and site–specific rules will apply. No registration required.
Hooting owls. Flashing fireflies. Swirling bats. Wildlife abounds in our forest preserves after dark, and most of these animals depend on deep, dark nights to thrive. Learn about the different animals that come out after dark, their adaptions that enable a nocturnal lifestyle, and the ways that light pollution threatens their existence. Enjoy wildlife-themed games and make a craft to take home. The fun evening will end with a night hike to look and listen for nocturnal animals. We’ll also have a campfire gathering, complete with s’mores! Sponsored by the Kane County
Department of Environmental & Water Resources.
Friday, Sept. 5; 7-8:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Knockout the Noxious
Do you know the difference between a native and a non-native plant or why the difference even matters? If not, you’re not alone! During this riverside stroll, a naturalist will explain how noxious weeds infiltrate and degrade our ecosystems and point out examples of local invasive plants. You’ll learn how you can help fight invasives, both at home and in your community. Bring a pair of work gloves if you’d like to get started practicing invasive–plant removal at the end of the program!
Saturday, Sept. 6; 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Les Arends Forest Preserve 2S731 Rte. 31, Batavia FREE
Moon & Star Party
If you’ve ever looked at our moon and wondered about its mysteries, this is the program for you! Learn about the movement of the moon around our planet and the important role
that Earth’s moon plays in all of our lives. After a brief indoor presentation, we’ll join friends from the Fox Valley Astronomical Society for a Moon & Star Party. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to explore the features of the moon and other marvels of the night sky through telescopes. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Monday, Sept. 8; 7-9 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Bird Watching Walks
Enjoy the changing seasons as we hike, look and listen for the birds inhabiting our local forest preserves, this fall. District naturalists will cover basic bird-identification skills and share interesting stories, along the way.
Saturday, Sept. 13; 9-10 a.m.
Hoscheit Woods Forest Preserve 6N327 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE
Culver Forest Preserve 6S496 Hankes Rd., Sugar Grove FREE
Photo Courtesy Adobe
Fun with Firebuilding
Learn the basics of building a successful fire and put your newfound skills to the test during this evening nature program. We’ll explore the different methods of starting a fire as well as various campfire structures that are sure to start and keep burning. We’ll conclude our program with a special campfire treat!
Thursday, Sept. 18; 5:30-7 p.m.
Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls
40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts Fee: $2/person
It’s Our Fox River Day
It’s Our Fox River Day is a unique opportunity for community members to come together and make a positive impact on the health and beauty of the Fox River. This watershed-wide event aims to celebrate, protect, and restore the health of the Fox River. Participants can actively contribute by participating in a river clean-up. Volunteers will work collectively to beautify the river, its banks, and the nearby trails. We’ll provide drinking water, snacks, disposable gloves and trash bags.
Saturday, Sept. 20; 9 a.m. - Noon
Glenwood Park Forest Preserve 1644 S. River St., Batavia FREE
Yarn Art Social Circle
Join our monthly circle of conversation over yarn–art. Bring your own knit, crochet or other yarn art project to work within a group of yarn enthusiasts. Share tips and patterns with others while picking up pointers and ideas from friends old and new. Yarn crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Register for one class or the entire year! Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday, Sept. 20; 4-5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Saturday, Oct. 18; 4-5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Saturday, Nov. 15; 4-5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Harvest Fall Festival
Celebrate autumn’s arrival with the Forest Preserve District! At this popular, family-friendly festival, we’ll have pumpkin painting, mule-drawn hayrides, games, education stations, crafts, folk music and refreshments. Admission to all activities is free. Nominal fee for crafts and refreshments. No registration required.
Sunday, Sept. 28; Noon - 3 p.m.
Oakhurst Forest Preserve 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora FREE; nominal fee for crafts and refreshments
Creatures of the Night: Bats
Kane County is home to many flying creatures, but none are as mysterious as the bat. Come out to experience nighttime in a forest preserve. Learn about these winged mammalian creatures and the important role they play in our ecosystems. With a little luck, we’ll observe their acrobatic flight patterns, as dusk settles over the land.
Thursday, Oct. 9; 6-7 p.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Spiders and their Webs
Autumn is the perfect time of the year to hunt for little eight-legged creatures! On this family walk, learn all about
arachnids — the spiders and their kin. We’ll capture specimens in bug jars, in order to examine them up close, and then release them back into their habitat. You may not be a spiderlover, but you will have a greater appreciation for their role in nature, after this program.
Friday, Oct. 10; 10-11 a.m.
Bowes Creek Woods Forest Preserve 9N420 Crawford Rd., Elgin FREE
EcoLab: Owl Puke 101
This month, our quarterly science lab will dive into the study of owls. Owls are majestic birds of prey with natural digestive habits that might may make some of us cringe, but explain a lot about the lives of these amazing creatures. Learn some fun facts about owls and get the unique opportunity to dissect your own owl pellet. This program is for ages 7 and above.
Saturday, Oct. 25; 10-11:30 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $5/person
Beginner Fly-Tying Workshops
Learn the art and science of fly tying in these free introductory workshops! Instructors from Oak Brook Trout Unlimited will provide all the equipment and materials you need to design and create the perfect fly for your next fishing adventure. Ages 12 and above.
Tuesday, Nov. 4; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
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Youth Programs
Advance registration is required for all nature programs, unless otherwise specified.
Photo by Naturalist Josh Libman
Stories at Creek Bend Nature Center
Join a librarian from the St. Charles Public Library for read-aloud stories, finger plays, songs and more, during these fun programs for children from infancy through age 5. Stay and enjoy the interactive exhibits in the Nature Center, following the program. For the grand finale of your storytime experience, head outside to read a second book along the StoryWalk®! No registration required.
Wednesday, Sept. 10, 10:30-11 a.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Wednesday, Oct. 8; 10:30-11 a.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Wednesday, Nov. 12; 10:30-11 a.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE
Little Saplings
In this monthly program geared for 3-5 year olds, we’ll explore the natural world through a variety of activities specific to the theme of the month. Sessions include a combination of stories, nature hikes, songs, games, or crafts. A parent or caregiver must accompany child.
Mushrooms & Toadstools
Thursday, Sept. 11; 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child
Speedy Squirrels
Thursday, Oct. 16; 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child
Turkeys Everywhere!
Thursday, Nov. 20; 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child
Twigs to Trees
Extending our popular Little Saplings program, Twigs to Trees is designed for school–age children in kindergarten to second grade. During each session, we’ll investigate seasonal nature themes as we explore the woods and wilds with nature-based play. This is a drop-off program; parents and caregivers will not stay with their children.
Prairies, Spiders & Insects...Oh, My!
Tuesday, Sept. 9; 4-5 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child
The Color Orange
Tuesday, Oct. 14; 4-5 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child
Preparing for Winter
Tuesday, Nov. 11; 4-5 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child
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Adult Programs
Advance registration is required for all nature programs, unless otherwise specified.
Senior Stroll
Seniors (age 50 or better) are invited to join naturalists each month to explore a different preserve, and learn about the natural and cultural history surrounding the land. Dress for the weather — these outdoor programs celebrate the change in seasonal surroundings. Each meeting includes a pleasant ramble, lasting about an hour, followed by social time in the shelter. No registration required.
41W230 Big Timber Rd., Hampshire FREE; donations accepted
Save the Date! Holiday Potluck Party
Thursday, Dec. 4; 10 a.m. - Noon
6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE; donations accepted
Nurtured by Nature
Experience the healing effects of nature. Studies show that time outdoors can relieve stress, boost your immune system, improve sleep, and contribute to overall good health. During this monthly series, we’ll incorporate gentle stretching, deep breathing and a focus on awareness. These hikes are designed to nurture the mind, body and spirit. Ages 18 and above.
Sunday, Sept. 7; 10-11 a.m.
Dick Young Forest Preserve 39W115 Main St., Batavia FREE
Raceway Woods Forest Preserve 17N702 Western Ave., Carpentersville FREE
Trek with a Naturalist
Get your 10,000 steps in during these invigorating naturalist-led hikes! This monthly program is designed for those who like active hiking — all year long. We visit different preserves
each month. The naturalist will stop occasionally to interpret the ecology of the preserve as we walk — but the main goal is to cover ground! Ages 18 and above.
Thursday, Sept. 18; 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Bowes Creek Woods Forest Preserve 9N420 Crawford Rd., Elgin FREE
Thursday, Oct. 16; 4-6 p.m.
Blackberry Maples Forest Preserve 43W231 Main St., Elburn FREE
Saturday, Nov. 1; 9-11 a.m.
Kenyon Farm Forest Preserve 8N700 Barry Rd., South Elgin FREE
Explore the Fox River by Kayak
Tour our local waterways during these paddling adventures. Each session, participants will receive dry-land instruction on basic kayaking techniques from an experienced instructor. Then, we’ll take to the water for a naturalist-led exploration of the fascinating local ecology. Participants meet and park at the take-out location and are shuttled to the put-in. Boaters must be at least 16 years old and be able to hold breath under water while wearing a properly fitted life jacket, independently turn from a face down to a face-up position keeping head above water, effectively communicate with the instructor and other participants, and manage all mobility and personal care independently or
with the assistance of a companion. Registration is required one week prior to the program.
Skill Level: Intermediate Fee: $89/person (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle) Or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Saturday, Oct. 11; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Meeting at: McCullough Park; 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Paddle Distance: 6 miles with portage
Skill Level: Intermediate Fee: $89/person (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle) Or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Kane County Certified Naturalist (KCCN) Information Session
Want to learn more about Kane County’s fastestgrowing nature-education program for adults? Attend the free informational session to find out what all the excitement is about! During this introduction, you’ll learn about the dates, cost, and tremendous benefits of this award-winning program. The mission of KCCN is to promote awareness and citizen stewardship of Kane County natural resources through sciencebased education and community service. KCCN is a cooperative program of the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the St. Charles Park District, and the Geneva Park District.
Thursday, Nov. 6; 7-8 p.m.
Hickory Knolls Discovery Center 3795 Campton Hills Rd., St. Charles FREE
Learn from the Experts Programs
Learn from the Experts (LFE) programs are classes about local ecology, sponsored by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the St. Charles Park District and the Geneva Park District. Taught by staff of these agencies or other top experts, LFEs offer insightful information about topics that impact Kane County. Ages 18 and above. No online registration for Kane County Certified Naturalist discount-coupon registrants.
Behind the Scenes Tour: Seed Processing Facility
Our Forest Preserve District harvests seeds from native plant species every summer and fall, but what happens to those seeds after they’ve been collected? Join our Natural Resource Management team for a special behind-the-scenes tour through their state-of-the-art seed processing facility. There, you’ll see first-hand the start-to-finish techniques and equipment used to dry, clean and sort native seeds in preparation for sowing back onto the landscape.
Thursday, Oct. 2; 6-7:30 p.m.
Mill Creek Greenway Forest Preserve
02N253 Brundige Rd., Elburn Fee: $10/person
Fall Tree Identification
Identifying trees in autumn can be a unique challenge. Some species retain their leaves late into the season, while others drop their leaves at the first appearance of
cool temperatures and shorter days. Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick will explain how to identify trees with and without their leaves during this fully-outdoors class. The program will begin with a review of basic tree anatomy and identifying features then traverse the woodlands, examining leaves, bark, twigs and fruit to identify a number of common, native hardwood trees.
Sunday, Oct. 12; 10 a.m. - Noon
Bliss Woods Forest Preserve
5S660 Bliss Rd., Sugar Grove Fee: $10/person
Under the New Moon:
A Deep Sky Exploration
Discover what lies beyond our Solar System! Under the deep darkness of a new moon, members of the Fox Valley Astronomical Society will share a presentation about the types of deep sky objects and explain how these celestial objects are classified. If the weather cooperates, the program will conclude with the opportunity to view astronomical wonders, including the
start of the Orionid meteor shower, though a wide variety of different telescopes.
Tuesday, Oct. 21; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $10/person
Seasonal Species: Sandhill Cranes
Autumn sunsets in Kane County are even more spectacular when Sandhill Cranes gather and prepare for their migratory flight southward. Graceful and beautiful with a haunting call, these birds are the talk of the season. This program will start with a presentation on the natural history of cranes, followed by plenty of time to watch and listen for these birds, as we hike the preserve trails near sunset.
Thursday, Oct. 23; 5-6:30 p.m.
Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls
40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts Fee: $10/person
Photo by Naturalist Erica Lemon
Squirrels of Kane County
Squirrels are a vital part of local woodland ecosystems. Learn about the different types of squirrels found in Kane County, their various habitats and unique characteristics, as well as citizen science opportunities for studying squirrels. Weatherpermitting, the program will conclude with a naturalist-led walk to spot squirrels busy with winter preparations.
Sunday, Nov. 2; 1-2:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $10/person
Sense of Place:
Hampshire Forest Preserve
Join Naturalist Erica Lemon to learn about the history of the land that makes up present-day Hampshire Forest Preserve. From farming to restoration work, this preserve has seen a lot of natural and cultural change! We will hike the trails and explore the surrounding natural communities while we learn about this beautiful place.
Saturday, Nov. 15; 9:30-11 a.m.
Hampshire Forest Preserve 44W780 Allen Rd., Hampshire Fee: $10/person
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Virtual Programs
Experience nature, right from the comfort of your own home with our virtual program offerings. Follow us on social media. Visit @ forestpreserve for the latest virtual programs released each month. View seasonal Nature, Virtually Everywhere! programs at bit.ly/ FPDKCYouTube
Great Golden Digger Wasp
This species spotlight highlights the fascinating life cycle of a solitary species of wasp that
inhabits our forest preserves. When it comes to feeding its young, things get a little more... interesting!
The Science of Fall Color
Autumn in the Midwest is leaf–peeping season! Learn about the chemistry that fuels the gorgeous hues of green, orange, yellow, red and purple that are abundant in our leaves at this time of year.
Creatures of the Night
The “Count” is back for our Halloween special! Have fun with District naturalists as we discuss the fascinating lifestyles of nocturnal animals.
Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley Fall Programs
For more information, visit ppfv.org or call 630-377-6424
Heirloom Apple Fest
Come to the Durant-Peterson House and Sholes School Museum and learn all about apples common during the 19th century, at one of our most popular events of the year! Taste and compare heirloom apples that you do not see in your local grocery store—like Stayman Winesap, Haralson, Gravenstein Red, Sain Edmonds Pippin, and Wolf River! And learn how families preserved their apples for yearround enjoyment!
Sunday, Sept. 21; 1-4 p.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child; No reservations required.
Civil War Solder Encampment
II — On the Durant House Lawn
Join us for the return of a favorite event where the 19th Illinois and 6th Wisconsin
Regiments Civil War Reenactors teach history through living it. Come walk through displays of equipment that soldiers used. See demonstrations of camp life and cooking rations. At this hands-on event, visitors can handle equipment, try on uniforms, and taste a little 1860s cooking. Special Experience for kids: At 2:30 p.m. KIDS CAMP will begin. Once “enlisted,” kids will learn drills from experienced soldiers, and practice as a regiment. The Durant House and Sholes School will be open.
Sunday, Oct. 5; 1-4 p.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child; No reservations required.
Home-Made for the Holidays
How did early settlers decorate their schools and homes for the holidays? They were very resourceful and found items from nature and used simple things already on hand. Visit the Durant House and Sholes School Museums for demonstrations on handmade decorations you can do yourself.
Sunday, Nov. 16; 1-4 p.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child; No reservations required.
NOTE: All events are subject to change/cancellation. Please register in advance, so that we have accurate numbers and can contact you if a program is moved or cancelled.
Forest Preserve District of Kane County 1996 S. Kirk Rd., Ste. 320 Geneva, IL 60134
Don’t miss a nature program!
Subscribe to The TreeLine
If you would like to be on a permanent quarterly mailing list for this publication, visit http://bit.ly/ForestPreserve_Email, Email us at forestpreserve@kaneforest.com or call 630-232-5980
NATURE PROGRAM INFORMATION
Registration is required for all programs unless otherwise noted. To register for programs and/or schedule school or scout field trips: visit www.kaneforest.com/register, call 630-444-3190, or email programs@kaneforest.com. Telephone reservations are accepted Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Payment
Credit cards can only be accepted for online registrations. When registering via phone or email, required fees must be paid at the program with cash or check payable to the Forest Preserve District of Kane County unless other wise noted. Checks can be mailed to:
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St. St. Charles, IL 60175
Programs are free unless otherwise indicated. Fee assistance is available upon request.
Special Accommodations
Please let us know at least two weeks in advance by calling the program manager at 630-444-3191. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service or activity of the District, should contact the ADA Coordinator at Voice: 630444-3950 or 630-232-5980, TTY Relay: 800-526-0844, email at ada@ kaneforest.com or mail at 1996 S. Kirk Rd., Ste. 320, Geneva, IL 60134, as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours before the scheduled event.
Program Waiver and Release
The Forest Preserve District of Kane County (FPDKC) is committed to conducting its programs and activities in a safe manner and holds the safety of participants in high regard. The FPDKC continually strives to reduce risks and insists that all participants follow safety rules and instructions that are designed to protect the participant’s safety. All registrants will be asked to sign a waiver and release.
Cancellations
Please call us if you need to cancel, so that we may contact others on our wait list.
Photo Release
By registering for a program, you consent to and authorize the use of any photographs and other audiovisual materials for promotional purposes, including printed material, educational activities, exhibitions, or for any other use for the benefit of the District.
The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is committed to recycling and green printing methods. This brochure is printed on recycled stock with soy-based ink. When finished, please recycle this material.
