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Fall TreeLine Newsletter 2026

Page 1


The TreeLine

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

Kimberley Young, District 2

Anita Marie Lewis, District 3

Sonia Garcia, District 6

Alex Arroyo, District 7

Michelle Gumz, District 8

Jennifer Abbatacola, 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

Brittany Kovach, Communications & Marketing Supervisor

Barb McKittrick, Environmental Education Manager

Lauren Swanson, Communications & Marketing Specialist

Forest Preserve District of Kane County

1996 S. Kirk Rd., Ste. 320 Geneva, Illinois 60134

Phone: 630-232-5980

Email: forestpreserve@kaneforest.com

Web: www.kaneforest.com

Social: @forestpreserve

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.

If a year was tucked inside a clock, autumn would be the magic hour... — Victoria Erickson

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.

Bird Watching Walks

Enjoy the changing seasons as we hike and look and listen for the birds inhabiting our forest preserves, this fall. District naturalists will cover basic bird-identification skills and share a few interesting stories along the way.

Sunday, Sept. 13; 9-10 a.m.

Blackberry Maples Forest Preserve 43W231 Main St., Elburn FREE

Friday, Oct. 23; 9-10 a.m.

Fox River Shores Forest Preserve 701 North Williams Rd., Carpentersville FREE

Friday, Nov. 20; 10-11 a.m.

Fitchie Creek Forest Preserve

39W933 Russell Rd., Elgin FREE

What's Up Tonight?

Back by popular demand, members of the Fox Valley Astronomical Society will illuminate the wonders of astronomy. Following a brief indoor presentation about objects visible in the night sky, this autumn evening, we'll head outdoors (weather permitting) to enjoy the nocturnal view through multiple telescopes.

Thursday, Sept. 17; 7-9 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $2/person

Yarn Art Social Circle

Join us for conversation over yarn art. Bring your own knit, crochet or other yarn 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!

Saturday, Sept. 19; 4-5:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Saturday, Oct. 17; 4-5:30 p.m. Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Saturday, Nov. 14; 4-5:30 p.m. Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Cover Photo
Welcome to the herd! This red dog (baby bison) was born at Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve in May 2026. Photo by Naturalist Lisa O'Brien.
Bird Watching Walks Participants use binoculars to look for birds at Burnidge Forest Preserve. Register for this free monthly series at www.kaneforest.com/register.

Harvest Fall Festival

Celebrate autumn’s arrival with the Forest Preserve District! At this popular, family-friendly festival, we’ll have pumpkin painting, 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. 27; Noon - 3 p.m.

Oakhurst Forest Preserve 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora FREE; nominal fee for crafts and refreshments

Fall Color Chemistry

Autumn is where art and science meet! Plants swap their green colorings for a full palette of gold, orange, and crimson all thanks to the chemistry of pigments hiding in every leaf. Join District naturalists as we discuss the science behind the beauty of fall.

Sunday, Oct. 11; 10-11 a.m.

Kenyon Farm Forest Preserve 8N700 Barry Rd., South Elgin FREE

Natural History of Bobcats

Reports of Felis rufus sightings are increasingly common in Kane County. Stefanie Fitzsimons, Illinois Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Biologist, will discuss the history of bobcats and their range in Illinois. She will also explore the unique role that bobcats play in regional ecosystems and delve into past and present research findings about bobcats in Illinois.

Saturday, Oct. 17; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

EcoLab: Murder Mystery in the

Mansion

Tragedy has struck the Creek

Bend Nature Center! Ollie O’Possum has been found dead inside the historic farm mansion. Foul play is suspected and we are calling on you to help us get to the bottom of this crime. Unravel puzzles, collect evidence, and perform science experiments to solve this whodun-it mystery! This program is for ages 8 and above; participants under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, Oct. 24; 5-6:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $5/person

Owl Prowl

Some of the most mysterious, and fascinating, denizens of the dark are our local owls. At this sunset program, we’ll describe the natural history of native owls and explain the impact owls have had on human culture. Following an indoor presentation, we’ll head into the nocturnal woods to look for Great Horned Owls and Screech Owls.

Thursday, Oct. 29; 5:30-6:30 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Photo by Naturalist Lisa O'Brien

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Creatures of the Night

Get out after-hours for a naturalistguided hike through local woodlands. Together, we’ll discover the incredible adaptations that nocturnal animals use to successfully navigate the nighttime. Leave the flashlights at home to let your night vision guide the way.

Thursday, Nov. 12; 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve 41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn FREE n n n

Youth Programs

Advance registration is required for all nature programs, unless otherwise specified.

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. 9; 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Wednesday, Oct. 14; 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Wednesday, Nov. 11; 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 and themes. Sessions include a combination of stories, nature hikes, songs, games or crafts. A parent or caregiver must accompany child.

Slugs & Bugs

Thursday, Sept. 17; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

Little Saplings

Join us for our Little Saplings programs, for ages 3-5. This participant is enjoying creating a fall tree craft. Register for this program at www.kaneforest.com/register.

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child

Spider Senses

Thursday, Oct. 15; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child

Oh, Deer!

Thursday, Nov. 19; 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 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, during the program.

Insectivores!

Tuesday, Sept. 15; 4-5 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child

Life in a Log

Tuesday, Oct. 13; 4-5 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child

Animal Signs

Tuesday, Nov. 17; 4-5 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles Fee: $5/child n n n

Adult Programs

Advance registration is required for all nature programs, unless otherwise specified.

Senior Stroll

Seniors are invited to join naturalists to explore a 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 that lasts an hour, followed by social time in the shelter. No registration required.

Thursday, Sept. 3; 10 a.m. - Noon

Elburn Forest Preserve 45W061 Illinois Rte. 38, Elburn FREE; donations accepted

Thursday, Oct. 1; 10 a.m. - Noon

Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve 13N240 Engel Rd., Sycamore FREE; donations accepted

Thursday, Nov. 5; 10 a.m. - Noon

Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve 719 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva FREE; donations accepted

Senior Stroll Holiday Potluck Party

Thursday, Dec. 3; 10 a.m. - Noon

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE; donations accepted; bring a dish to pass

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 naturalistled exploration of fascinating ecology. Participants meet and park at the take-out location and are shuttled to the put-in location. 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. We require registration at least one week prior to the program.

Saturday, Sept. 5; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Meeting at: Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve; 50 Airport Rd., Elgin

Paddle Distance: 7 miles

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. 10; 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

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 healthy movement, deep breathing and focus on awareness to nurture the mind, body and spirit. Ages 18 and above.

Sunday, Sept. 6; 10-11 a.m.

Burlington Forest Preserve 13N240 Engel Rd., Sycamore FREE

Sunday, Oct. 4; 10-11 a.m.

Hampshire Forest Preserve 44W780 Allen Rd., Hampshire FREE

Sunday, Nov. 1; 10-11 a.m.

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve 44W780 Allen Rd., Hampshire FREE

Sunday, Nov. 29; 10-11 a.m.

Brunner Family Forest Preserve 18N681 Western Ave. - IL Rte. 31, West Dundee FREE

Trek with a Naturalist

Get your 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 3-5 miles at a pace of about 3 miles/hour. Ages 18 and above.

Thursday, Sept. 24; 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls 40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts FREE

Thursday, Oct. 15; 4-6 p.m.

Bliss Woods Forest Preserve 5S660 Bliss Rd., Sugar Grove FREE

Saturday, Nov. 21; 9-11 a.m.

Hampshire Forest Preserve 44W780 Allen Rd., Hampshire FREE

Fall Colors Yoga and Stroll

As we watch the seasons change, take this yoga and fall color program as an opportunity to slow down and

connect with the changes in the natural world. We will begin with a guided, fall-color stroll through the beautiful woodlands, and will end with mindful movements and meditation with yoga instructor Jared Fedota from YogaSix studio in Geneva. This program is for ages 18 and above.

Thursday, Oct. 15; 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Fabyan East Forest Preserve 1500 Crissey Ave. IL - Rte. 25, Geneva Fee: $30/person

KCCN Information Session

Want to learn about Kane County's fastest growing natureeducation 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, details, cost and tremendous benefits of this award-winning program. No registration required.

Thursday, Nov. 12; 7-8 p.m.

Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center 3507 Kaneville Rd., Geneva FREE

Teachers — Schedule a Field Trip with the Forest Preserve District

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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 registrants.

Sense of Place:

Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve

Join former preserve staff resident Valerie Blaine to learn about the history of the land that makes up present-day Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve. From dance hall to spiritual retreat to nature center, Tekakwitha Forest 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 preserve.

Sunday, Sept. 20; 10-11:30 a.m.

Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve 35W076 Villa Marie Rd., St. Charles 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

www.kaneforest.com/register, call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com

a number of common native hardwood trees.

Saturday, Sept. 26; 10 a.m. - Noon

Bliss Woods Forest Preserve

5S660 Bliss Rd., Sugar Grove Fee: $10/person

Food in Space

What happens when you mash up the worlds of food science and astronomy? Food in space! Ryan Dillman, Community Relations Director of the Fox Valley Astronomical Society (FVAS), will kick off the evening with an indoor presentation about the science and history of food in space. Afterwards, we’ll be treated to a star party, as we view the wonders of the night sky through a multitude of different telescopes.

Thursday, Oct. 1; 7-9:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $10/person

Marvels of Shorebirds

Did you know that some shorebirds travel halfway across the globe each migratory season? Alex Smilor, research assistant in the Ward Lab of Ornithology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, will explain the science of migration ecology and describe some of the incredible feats that shorebirds (including many that pass through Illinois) perform while migrating between their summer and winter ranges. Alex will also describe his latest project studying Illinois “fluddles” (ephemeral wetlands) and share preliminary findings on how migratory shorebirds utilize flooded agricultural fields.

Sunday, Nov. 8; 10-11:30 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles Fee: $10/person

Glacial Lake Pingree: A Motorcoach Tour

Enjoy a state-of-the-art motorcoach tour in and around the bed of the now-extinct, but once vast, Glacial Lake Pingree. We will stop at key locations that give evidence to the natural history and continuing significance of this Ice Age wonder. While en route, Kane County Certified Naturalist David Schoenknecht will provide a multimedia experience and share new scientific research on Glacial Lake Pingree. The motor coach departs and returns to Creek Bend Nature Center. Refreshments will be provided. Registration, with full payment, due by November 2, 2026. KCCN coupons cannot be used for this program.

Saturday, Nov. 14; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $55/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 us online for the latest virtual programs, released each month. View seasonal Nature, Virtually Everywhere! programs at bit.ly/ FPDKCYouTube

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.

The Science of Fall Color 

Enjoy some stunning footage of our forest preserves in the fall while we discuss the chemistry behind leaf–peeping season.

https://bit.ly/FallColorFPDKC

https://bit.ly/CreaturesFPDKC

Glacial Lake Pingree: A Motorcoach Tour Come along on a state-of-the-art motorcoach tour in and around the bed of the now extinct, but once vast, Glacial Lake Pingree. Pictured above, the group stops at key locations that give evidence to the natural history and continuing significance of this Ice Age wonder. Register at www.kaneforest.com/register.

Arrowwood Point Archery Complex Program Offerings Coming Soon

Fall Archery Programs

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is expanding opportunities for visitors to enjoy archery at Arrowwood Point Archery Complex. Staff are currently piloting instructional programs and exploring future archery offerings for individuals and groups.

While public classes are still in development, private group archery experiences will be available for scout groups, youth organizations, community groups, and other interested participants.

For updates on upcoming archery programs and events, visit www.kaneforest.com/ arrowwood. To learn more about group archery experiences and for any archery-related questions, email archery@kaneforest.com.

A Rare Discovery in the Marsh — Least Bitterns

While conducting field work in a Kane County forest preserve, Forest Preserve District wildlife staff noticed something unusual hidden among a dense patch of cattails — a carefully woven nest suspended just above the water.

The nest clearly belonged to a marsh bird, but identifying its builder would take some patience. Many birds that live among the thick wetland vegetation are known as "secretive marsh birds" because they are much easier to hear than to see. To solve the mystery, staff installed a wildlife camera near the nest.

The camera soon revealed an exciting discovery — a pair of Least Bitterns (lxobrychus exilis) had constructed the nest and were tending to six eggs.

Least Bitterns are small, wellcamouflaged herons that move quietly through cattails and other marsh vegetation. The discovery was especially significant because the Least Bittern is listed as a threatened species in Illinois.

Seeing an adult bird in an area does not necessarily confirm the species is breeding there. Wildlife staff must document evidence of nesting,

such as eggs or young, before breeding activity can be reported to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This information also helps guide the District's land-management practices and supports efforts to protect the wetland habitats these birds depend upon.

Even more exciting news followed: The eggs have hatched! The nest originally contained six eggs, although staff could not determine exactly how many chicks were huddled together in the latest photo. Their arrival marks an exciting new chapter for this remarkable marsh family.

Bill Graser, Wildlife Biologist & Brittany Kovach, Communications & Marketing Supervisor
The nest contained six eggs (four pictured).
Adult at nest with eggs (still from wildlife camera video).
The chicks have hatched!
Nest woven among cattails.
Photos by Wildlife Biologist Bill Graser

Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley Fall Programs

Heirloom Apple Fest

Come to the Durant-Peterson House and Sholes School Museum and learn all about apples popular 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, Saint Edmonds Pippin, and Wolf River. Some are tiny and some are huge! And learn how families preserved their apples for year-round enjoyment!

Sunday, Sept. 20; 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 Soldier Encampment II — On the Durant House Lawn

The return of the favorite autumn 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 and see demonstrations of camp

life and cooking rations. At this hands-on event, visitors can handle equipment, try on uniforms, and watch a demonstration of 1860s cooking. Special experience just 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-Peterson House and Sholes School Museum will be open, too.

Sunday, Oct. 4; 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 Christmas? They were very resourceful and found items from nature and used the simple things already on hand. Visit the Durant House and Sholes School Museums for demonstrations on hand-made decorations you can do yourself.

Sunday, Nov. 15; 1-4 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child No reservations required.

Join the Volunteer Crew

Help inspire appreciation for the natural world and cultural history of Kane County by becoming a Forest Preserve District volunteer. There are various opportunities, including seed harvests and restoration workdays, where you can help make a difference. For more information, visit www.kaneforest. com/volunteer or scan the QR code. Here are some of last quarter's Volunteer highlights.

Seed Team

The tradition of collecting native prairie seed continues at the Forest Preserve District of Kane County this summer and fall!

Join us every Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for weekly Seed Harvests at preserves throughout Kane County. Volunteers will help collect seed from native prairie plants, which will be used to restore and establish hundreds of acres of prairie habitat. No experience is necessary. District staff will provide plant identification tips at each harvest. Weekly locations and featured species will be announced on our social media channels. The District will provide tools and light snacks. This family-friendly volunteer opportunity is open to all-ages. We hope to see you in the prairie, this fall!

Lake Run Plug Planting

Thank you to the volunteers, stewards, and Batavia Troop 21 scouts who helped plant approximately 1,200 native forbs and grasses at Lake Run Forest Preserve. The effort enhanced a hilltop prairie and coincided with Steward Jeff Hedrich's remarkable milestone of 5,000 volunteer service hours.

Forest Preserve District of Kane County 24,835 Total Acres

3 Executive Committee Meeting8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

3 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Elburn Forest Preserve

5 Explore the Fox River by Kayak - 10 a.m. - Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve

6 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m.Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve

8 Full Commission Meeting - 8:30 a.m.Kane County Government Center

9 Stories at Creek Bend - 10:30 a.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

10 Great Orb Hunt -Sunrise to SunsetLeRoy Oakes, Burnidge & Fine Line

10 Kane Forest Preserve Foundation Golf Outing - 9 a.m. - Hughes Creek Golf Course

13 Bird Watching Walks - 9 a.m.Blackberry Maples Forest Preserve

15 Twigs to Trees - 4 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

17 Little Saplings - 9:30 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

17 What's Up Tonight? - 7 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

19 Yarn Art Social Circle - 4 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

20 Sense of Place: Tekakwitha Woods - 10 a.m. - Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve

22 Finance & Administration Committee Meeting - 2:00 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

24 Land Acquisition Committee Meeting - 8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

24 Planning & Utilization Committee Meeting - 9:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

24 Trek with a Naturalist - 4:30 p.m.Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

26 Fall Tree Identification - 10 a.m. - Bliss Woods Forest Preserve

27 Harvest Fall Festival - Noon - Oakhurst Forest Preserve October

1 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve

4 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m.Hampshire Forest Preserve

8 Executive Committee Meeting8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

10 Explore the Fox River by Kayak - 10 a.m. - McCullough Park

11 Fall Color Chemistry - 10 a.m. - Kenyon Farm Forest Preserve

13 Full Commission Meeting - 8:30 a.m.Kane County Government Center

13 Twigs to Trees - 4 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

14 Stories at Creek Bend - 10:30 a.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

15 Little Saplings - 9:30 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

15 Trek with a Naturalist - 4 p.m. - Bliss Woods Forest Preserve

15 Fall Colors Yoga and Stroll - 5:30 p.m.Fabyan East Forest Preserve

17 Natural History of Bobcats - 9:30 a.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

17 Yarn Art Social Circle - 4 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

23 Bird Watching Walks - 9 a.m. - Fox River Shores Forest Preserve

24 EcoLab: Murder Mystery in the Mansion - 5 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

27 Finance & Administration Committee Meeting - 2 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

29 Land Acquisition Committee Meeting - 8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

29 Owl Prowl - 5:30 p.m. - LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

29 Planning & Utilization Committee Meeting - 9:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

November

1 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m. - Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve

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. Registration is required unless otherwise noted.

10 Full Commission Meeting - 8:30 a.m.Kane County Government Center

11 Stories at Creek Bend - 10:30 a.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

12 Creatures of the Night - 5:30 p.m.Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve

12 KCCN Information Session - 7 p.m.Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center

14 Glacial Lake Pingree: A Motorcoach Tour - 9 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

14 Yarn Art Social Circle - 4 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

17 Twigs to Trees - 4 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

17 Finance & Administration Committee Meeting - 2:00 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

19 Land Acquisition Committee Meeting - 8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

19 Planning & Utilization Committee Meeting - 9:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

19 Little Saplings - 9:30 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

20 Bird Watching Walks - 10 a.m. - Fitchie Creek Forest Preserve

21 Trek with a Naturalist - 9 a.m.Hampshire Forest Preserve

29 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m. - Brunner Forest Preserve

December

3 Executive Committee Meeting8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

3 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Barbara Belding Lodge

8 Full Commission Meeting - 8:30 a.m.Kane County Government Center

Blue = Committee/Commission Meetings

Green = Nature Programs

Orange = Special Events/Grand Openings

1 Food in Space - 7 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

5 Executive Committee Meeting8:30 a.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

5 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve

8 Marvels of Shorebirds - 10 a.m.Barbara Belding Lodge Forest Preserve District Calendar at a Glance

Forest Preserve District of Kane County 1996 S. Kirk Rd., Ste. 320 Geneva, IL 60134

Don’t miss a nature program!

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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 taken of participants during the program, and other audiovisual materials recorded during the program, for promotional purposes, including use in printed material, educational activities, exhibitions, or for any other use for the benefit of the District. If this is specific concern for you, please let the Staff member in charge of your program know.

Creek Bend Nature Center

Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: Noon - 4 p.m.

Social Media: Online Registration:

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.

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