Summer TreeLine 2025

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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

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

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.

Join us at Summer Nature Programs

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 Clinics

Join the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Urban and Community Fishing Program for evenings 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.

Wednesday, June 4; 5-7 p.m.

Thursday, July 10; 5-7 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 5; 5-7 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 3; 5-7 p.m.

Oakhurst Forest Preserve 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora FREE

Bird Watching Walks

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

Friday, June 6; 9-10 a.m.

Rutland Forest Preserve 41W230 Big Timber Rd., Hampshire

FREE

Saturday, July 19; 9-10 a.m.

Lake Run Forest Preserve 40W255 Tanner Rd., Sugar Grove FREE

Sunday, Aug. 17; 9-10 a.m.

Burnidge Forest Preserve 14N035 Coombs Rd., Elgin FREE

Discover Butterflies

What does a Monarch caterpillar look like? Why do butterflies group around puddles? What happens to butterflies in winter? On this family butterfly hike, a naturalist will lead you on a search for butterflies to demonstrate ways to identify them. During the walk, we’ll also discuss the habits and life cycles of our native butterfly species.

Friday, June 13; 1-2 p.m.

Pingree Grove Forest Preserve 14N187 Rte. 20, Pingree Grove 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 fellow 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, July 26; 4:30-6 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Saturday, Aug. 23; 4:30-6 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Cover Photo
A vibrant spiderwort plant blooms and basks in the warm June sunlight at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve.
Photo by Communications & Marketing Specialist Lauren Swanson

Week in the

Summer Camp! Woods

Explorewoodland wonders, get your feet wet in local streams, and learn new skills during these half day nature camps.

Naturalists will lead hikes, activities, games and nature-based crafts on a different nature theme, each day. Summer camp is for two age groups: (1) children entering 1st through 5th grades and (2) children entering 5th through 8th grades. Camp fee is $149/child/camp.

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

Detailed camp information will be provided upon registration.

Woodland Wonders

June 9 to June 13

Grades 1st - 5th

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts

STEAM in Nature

June 16 to June 20

Grades 1st - 5th

Burnidge Forest Preserve 14N035 Coombs Rd., Elgin

Art in Nature -

June 23 to June 27

& Fit in Nature -

Tools of the Trade

July 14 to July 18

Grades 5th - 8th

Creek Bend Nature Center 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Tracking & Survival

July 21 to July 25

Grades 1st - 5th

Oakhurst Forest Preserve 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora

“ “ My child loved every activity and came home with so many stories every day. I couldn’t have asked for anything more!

- 2024 Participant Parent

Eco-Lab: Glow Chemistry

Explore the wonders of luminescence after dark! A naturalist will explain the different types of luminescence we encounter in our dayto-day lives. Then, we’ll hit the trail to discover bioluminescence at work in nature. For the finale, we’ll settle into the cozy lodge to create a fun glow-inthe-dark craft to take home. Ages 10 and above.

Wednesday, July 2; 7:30-9 p.m.

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts

Fee: $5/person

Trail Art

Do you love nature art? If so, show-off your creativity as you fashion your own art along lovely forest preserve trails. During this outdoor program, we’ll gather natural items to create pretty designs or inspirational words along the many paths at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve for all to see and admire.

Sunday, July 13; 1-2 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Early Bird Special

Beat the heat of the summer prairie and join us for an earlymorning guided hike. Fresh, dew-filled air and rousing bird song await us on the trail. It’s a great way to start the day!

Friday, Aug. 1; 7-8 a.m.

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve

42W855 Bahr Rd., Hampshire FREE

St. Charles
Fun
41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn

Meet the Mushrooms!

There are hundreds of mushroom species in our area, each with a unique habitat and distinguishing features. Learn about the roles that fungi play in our ecosystems, and how to find and identify different mushrooms. A naturalist will lead you on a foray through woodland and grassland trails, where you’re sure to discover a variety of fungal fruits. Note: this program will focus on mushroom ecology and identification, not edibility.

Tuesday, Aug. 5; 5-6 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

to help us round them up! Our culprit is the Rusty Crayfish, a tiny aquatic creature that is an invasive species in Kane County. Join naturalists in the water with dip nets to collect, identify and remove some Rusties. Learn more about native and invasive aquatic species at educational pop-up exhibits. Prizes will be awarded for the biggest, smallest and largest number of crayfish collected. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get muddy. We will have some dip nets to loan, but bring your own, if possible. Visit one or both locations! This is a partnership program with: the St. Charles Park District, Fox Valley Park District and Friends of the Fox River. No registration required.

Summer in the Tallgrass

The tallgrass prairie explodes with color and texture in late summer. A naturalist will lead a stroll through a wonderfully biodiverse, restored prairie. See the many species of flowers and grasses that are specially adapted to growing there.

Wednesday, Aug. 6; 5-6 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

7th Annual Rusty Rodeo

There are underwater invaders in our local waterways, and we want you

Saturday, Aug. 9; 10 a.m. - Noon

North Aurora Island Park 4 E State St., North Aurora FREE

Saturday, Aug. 9; 10 a.m. - Noon

Mt. St. Mary’s Park 79 Prairie St., St. Charles FREE

Prairie Ethnobotany

“Ethnobotany” refers to the body of traditional knowledge of plants and our time-honored customs for using them. As we explore the prairie together, we’ll discover the intricate relationship we humans have with the green individuals growing around us.

Sunday, Aug. 24; 10-11 a.m.

Sauer Family Prairie Kame Forest Preserve 44W705 Lasher Rd., Elburn FREE

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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, June 11, 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Wednesday, July 9; 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Wednesday, Aug. 13; 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Little Saplings Safari

Summer is for exploring! Our monthly program for 3-5 year olds moves fully outdoors during the summertime. We will visit a different habitat each month to discover the plants and animals that live there. Be prepared to get a little wet and dirty as we have fun in nature. A parent or caregiver must accompany child.

Puddles & Ponds

Thursday, June 19; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Woodland Wonders

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Photo by Plant Technician Monika Kastle

Creek Exploration

Thursday, Aug. 21; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Youth Kayak Fishing Experience

Get out on local lakes with a professional kayak fishing instructor from Chi-Yak Adventures. Using watercrafts specifically designed for anglers, you’re sure to get into secret spots not reachable from shore. Whether you are looking to learn the skills involved in fishing from a watercraft, or to pick up a few pointers for improving your angling skills, this is the program for you! Take one, two, or all three sessions. We will provide the pedal kayak, safety equipment, kayaking instruction and fishing gear required to get you out on the water safely and catching fish effectively! Bring your own tackle box, water, sunscreen and a snack. We require registration at least 1 week prior to the program. For youth entering grades 6-12.

Thursday, July 17; 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Oakhurst Forest Preserve

1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora

Fee: $99/person

Tuesday, July 22;

8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Grunwald Forest Preserve 02S035 Lorang Rd., Elburn

Fee: $99/person

Tuesday, Aug. 5;

8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Big Rock Forest Preserve 46W072 Jericho Rd., Big Rock

Fee: $99/person

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Adult Programs

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

Explore the Fox River by Kayak Tour our local waterways during these paddling adventures. Our 2025 kayaking series begins with a lake-based basic paddling-skills class, followed by shorter and lessstrenuous river sessions for beginners. As the summer progresses, choose increasingly longer and more technical paddles for intermediate skill levels. 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. Choose any number of sessions; you can take one, two, or all six! 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.

Saturday, May 31; 10 a.m. - Noon

Meeting at: Oakhurst Forest Preserve; 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora

Paddle Distance: Less than 1 mile

Skill Level: Novice Skills Training

Fee: $69/person (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle)

Saturday, June 14; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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

Paddle Distance: 4 miles

Skill Level: Beginner

Fee: $89/person (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle) Or provide your own kayak for $45/person

Sunday, July 20; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Meeting at: Ferson Creek Park, State Rte. 31, east of Wildrose Springs Dr., St. Charles Paddle Distance: 4.5 miles

Skill Level: Beginner

Fee: $89/person (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle) Or provide your own kayak for $45/person

Photo by Environmental
Education Manager Barb McKittrick

Saturday, Aug. 2; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Meeting at: Fox River Shores Forest Preserve; 716 Williams Rd., Carpentersville Paddle Distance: 6 miles with picnic lunch

Skill Level: Intermediate Fee: $89/person (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle) Or provide your own kayak for $45/person

Saturday, Sept. 27; 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. 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

Senior Stroll

Seniors 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.

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

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

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

Fabyan West Forest Preserve 1925 Batavia Ave., Geneva FREE

Thursday, Aug. 7; 10 a.m. - Noon

Camp Tomo ChiChi Knolls

40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts FREE

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, June 15; 10-11 a.m.

Fabyan West Forest Preserve 1925 Batavia Ave., Geneva FREE

Sunday, July 13; 10-11 a.m.

Grunwald Farms Forest Preserve 02S035 Lorang Rd., Elburn FREE

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

Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve 13N240 Engel Rd., Burlington 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, June 19; 6-8 p.m.

Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve 5N753 IL Rte. 31, St. Charles FREE

Thursday, July 17; 6-8 p.m.

Fox River Shores Forest Preserve 716 Williams Rd., Carpentersville FREE

Thursday, Aug. 21; 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Hoscheit Woods Forest Preserve 6N327 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Women’s Weekend: A Nurturing Nature Retreat

Immerse yourself in a restorative weekend in nature with a community of women nature lovers. Connect with others as we explore the benefits of nature walking, botanizing, outdoor cooking, artistic creations and other therapeutic pursuits. The first day will culminate in a naturalist-led ethnobotanical hike, a nature-inspired art project, and a campfire with glamping s’mores. After a shared breakfast on Day 2, we’ll spend some quiet time in reflection, then leave refreshed and renewed. Overnight participants should bring a tent and sleeping gear; those that prefer not to spend the night may leave for the evening to sleep in their own beds, and then return the following morning. We will supply snacks, all meals, activity instruction and supplies, and access to indoor bathrooms, shower, and kitchen. We require registration at least 2 weeks prior to the program. Ages 18 and above.

Saturday, Aug. 30; 10 a.m. — Sunday, Aug. 31; 10 a.m.

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls 40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts Fee: $149/person

Photo by Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick

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.

Early Forbs of the Prairie

Early blooming prairie plants are essential for pollinators. They also initiate the wave of changing prairie colors that cascade through the summer and fall seasons. We will investigate the different species of early blooming forbs and have the opportunity to compare the diversity of burned versus unburned prairie plots.

Tuesday, June 3; 10-11:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $10/person

Summer Tree Identification

Learn to identify trees when they are fully leafed out. Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick will begin indoors with a review of basic plant morphology and an overview of the different techniques used to examine and ultimately identify summer trees. We’ll then head into the woodlands to examine leaves, bark, twigs and fruit to identify a number of common native hardwood trees.

Wednesday, June 18; 6-8 p.m.

Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve 41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn Fee: $10/person

Wild Boar to Baconfest

In this lecture, Cynthia Clampitt presents the history of pigs and pork, with a focus on the Midwest, to examine the impact of these animals. Pigs were the first food animals to be domesticated, so their history with humans dates back more than 12,000 years. However, antiquity is just one of the reasons why pork is the most eaten meat in the world. This odd, paradoxical animal offers a great range of advantages when it comes to feeding large populations — especially urban populations. Once pigs were introduced to the Americas, they became an almost instant success, raised by settlers but also valued by Native Americans. Pigs moved west and numbers grew rapidly. From Cincinnati, known in the early 1800s as “Porkoplis,” the center of pork culture moved to Chicago. Pigs offer culinary delight and potential medical advances, but also create some challenges.

Saturday, June 28; 9:30-11 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Bumble Bees of Kane County

A bumblebee’s a bumblebee, right? Yes, and no. In Illinois, there are 12 species of bumblebees, collectively known by their genus name Bombus They play a critical role in the ecology of our prairies and woodlands. In this presentation, you’ll learn about bumblebee diversity, ecological niches, and efforts to preserve and protect this important group of pollinators. We’ll begin with an indoor presentation, then head out to the prairie to find different species at work.

Saturday, July 19; 1-3 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Prairie Ecosystems of Kane County

The story of Illinois’ tallgrass prairie ecosystem is intricate and remarkable. Explore the rich history of these lands and learn how local prairie systems were shaped over the last 200 years. The naturalist-led hike will traverse multiple types of prairies as we learn about their similarities and differences: a beautifully restored prairie, a recreated prairie, and one of

the few remaining remnant prairies in Kane County.

Sunday, Aug. 3; 9-11 a.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Fee: $10/person

The I & M Canal: Connecting Illinois Farms to the Nation and the World

The Illinois and Michigan Canal, opened in 1848, and helped spur the development of Illinois. Connecting the Illinois River and Mississippi River watersheds with the Great Lakes, the canal transported products to distant places and dramatically expanded the links between farms and cities in our state. Dr. Norm Moline, an historical geographer with experiences in historic preservation, will review the canal’s history and its designation in 1984 as the nation’s first National Heritage Area, a program of the

Passport to Adventure

National Park Service.

Saturday, Aug. 23; 9:30-11 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles

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 @ forestpreserve for the latest virtual programs released each month. View seasonal Nature, Virtually Everywhere! programs at bit.ly/FPDKCYouTube

Birds in Your Yard 

Learn some tips and tricks on how to attract birds to your backyard. With the right mindset, and a few

good feeders, you can see an awesome diversity of species from your own kitchen table.

The Great Owl Mystery 

Did you know that Illinois is home to eight species of owls? Learn about the unique markings, habitats and life styles that help identify each of these beautiful birds of prey.

Freshwater Mussels in the Fox River Watershed 

Learn all about freshwater mussels and get a glimpse into the important work being done at the Urban Stream Research Center in DuPage County.

Take an adventure at area museums with the Passport to Adventure program. Participating sites in the Kane County Forest Preserve District include Creek Bend Nature Center at LeRoy Oakes in St. Charles, the Fabyan Villa Museum in Geneva, the Durant House Museum and Pioneer Sholes School at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles. The passport program encourages folks to visit a variety of history, nature, science and art museums to explore the people, events, and environment of the area. Children ages 4 through 12 will experience the world around them through exhibits and activities at each site they visit. The program is sponsored by the Illinois Parks & Recreation Association, the Kane-DuPage Regional Museum Association and a host of other partner agencies. Passports are available in late May at the Creek Bend Nature Center. More information about the program is available at (630) 444-3190.

Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley Summer Programs

Visit the Fabyan Villa & Japanese Garden

Code-breaking, a mummy, samurai, and more! Join us at the Fabyan Villa this season and learn about the eccentric Colonel George Fabyan and his wife Nelle, their menagerie of exotic animals, and their collection of taxidermy and artifacts. The Villa and Garden are open for self-guided tours during our open hours. Advance registration encouraged through www.ppfv.org.

May - September on Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays

Fabyan West Forest Preserve 1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva Villa Museum Fee: In-depth one-hour guided tour: 11 a.m. $10/person; Reservations required. Self-guided tour: 12-3 p.m. $5/adult and $3/child. No reservations required. Japanese Garden: Donations welcome. No reservations required.

Pioneer Day Camp at Durant House Museum

We invite kids to journey back in time to explore pioneer life. This unique, hands-on camp provides immersive experiences where learning history is fun! Hear about the families that lived in the home, try your hand at weaving, use oldfashioned tools, spend time in the creek, visit the one-room Sholes School, and, on Thursday, prepare a feast fit for settlers!

Spaces are limited for this four-day camp. Register at www.ppfv.org/ summer-camps

Monday - Thursday, June 16-19; 9-11:30 a.m.

Children entering grades 3-6 Durant House Museum/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $75/child; Reservations required.

To register, visit ppfv.org or call 630-377-6424

Textile Day at the DurantPeterson House

Learn how families worked with wool, flax, and cotton to spin, weave, and stitch as they created textiles in the 1800s. Watch demonstrations on spinning, weaving, knitting, and quilting, then try your own hand with a thread and needle.

Sunday, June 22; 1-4 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child

Adventures in History

We take kids back in time to experience some out-of-the-ordinary activities. During each adventure, we pretend we’re kids living in the 1800s. It’s a fun hands-on history lesson. These adventures are for children entering grades 3-6. Complete registration at www.ppfv.org.

Adventure 1872 - A Day in the Country

Tuesday, July 8; 9-11 a.m.

1872 Sholes School Museum/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $25/child; Reservations required.

Adventure 1850 - Backyard Archeology Tuesday, July 15; 9-11 a.m.

1850 Beith House Museum/ 8 Indiana St., St. Charles Fee: $25/child; Reservations required.

Adventure 1843 - Preserving Foods by Pickling Tuesday, July 22; 9-11 a.m.

1843 Durant House Museum/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Fee: $25/child; Reservations required.

Treasure Hunt at Fabyan

With your treasure map in hand, explore the Fabyan estate, solve clues and riddles, and find the treasure Colonel Fabyan has hidden on the

property! Meet at the Fabyan Villa. It’s all outdoors, so dress for the weather, bring your walking shoes; we expect you’ll walk at least a mile. Ideal for families or couples, and all children must be supervised. You’ll receive a special printed map and small keepsake to take home with you. Tickets will be available in May at www.ppfv.org.

Saturday, July 26; 12 - 3 p.m.

Fabyan West Forest Preserve 1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva Reservations required.

Pickle Palooza at the DurantPeterson House

Join us for an afternoon of oldtimey pickling fun! Our pickling cucumbers should be perfectly ripe. The Durant garden grows fresh dill and garlic for you to use in making your own jar of pickles. We will supply everything you need. One jar of pickles per family, please.

Sunday, July 27; 1-4 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child

Lantern Festival at the Japanese Garden

Join us for an evening making Japanese lanterns and releasing them on the pond in the Japanese Garden. It will be a tranquil and magical experience for all ages. More information to come. This event is weather-dependent. Tickets will be available in July at www.ppfv.org/ lantern

Saturday, Aug. 23 & Sunday, Aug. 24; 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Fabyan West Forest Preserve 1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva Reservations required.

Forest Preserve District Calendar at a Glance

nature

June

3 Early Forbs of the Prairie - 10 a.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

4 Open Fishing Clinic - 5 p.m.Oakhurst Forest Preserve

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

5 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve

6 Bird Watching Walks - 9 a.m.Rutland Forest Preserve

8 Centennial Celebration - NoonJohnson’s Mound Forest Preserve

9-13 Week in the Woods Summer Camp9 a.m. - Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

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

11 Stories at Creek Bend Nature Center10:30 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

13 Discover Butterflies - 1 p.m.Pingree Grove Forest Preserve

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

15 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m.Fabyan West Forest Preserve

16-20 Week in the Woods Summer Camp9 a.m. - Burnidge Forest Preserve

18 Summer Tree Identification - 6 p.m.Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve

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

19 Trek with a Naturalist - 6 p.m.Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve

23-27 Week in the Woods Summer Camp9 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

24 Finance & Admin Committee Meeting - 2:00 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

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

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

28 Wild Boar to Baconfest - 9:30 a.m.Barbara Belding Lodge July

2 Eco-Lab: Glow Chemistry - 7:30 p.m.Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

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

3 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Fabyan West Forest Preserve

7-11 Week in the Woods Summer Camp9 a.m. - Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve

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

9 Stories at Creek Bend Nature Center10:30 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

10 Open Fishing Clinic - 5 p.m. - Oakhurst Forest Preserve

13 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m. - Grunwald Farms Forest Preserve

13 Trail Art - 1 p.m. - LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

14-18 Week in the Woods Summer Camp9 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

17 Youth Kayak Fishing Experience - 8 a.m.Oakhurst Forest Preserve

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

17 Trek with a Naturalist - 6 p.m. - Fox River Shores Forest Preserve

19 Bird Watching Walks - 9 a.m. - Lake Run Forest Preserve

19 Bumbleebees of Kane County - 1 p.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

20 Explore the Fox River by Kayak - 10 a.m.Ferson Creek Park

22 Youth Kayak Fishing Experience - 8 a.m.Oakhurst Forest Preserve

21-25 Week in the Woods Summer Camp9 a.m. - Oakhurst Forest Preserve

26 Yarn Art Social Circle - 4:30 p.m.Barbara Belding Lodge

29 Finance & Admin Committee Meeting - 2:00 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

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

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

August

1 Early Bird Special - 7 a.m. - Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve

2 Explore the Fox River by Kayak - 10 a.m.Fox River Shores Forest Preserve

3 Prairie Ecoystems of Kane County9 a.m. - LeRoy Oakes 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.

5 Youth Kayak Fishing Experience - 8 a.m.Oakhurst Forest Preserve

5 Open Fishing Clinic - 5 p.m. - Oakhurst Forest Preserve

5 Meet the Mushrooms! - 5 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

6 Summer in Tallgrass - 5 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

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

7 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

9 Rusty Rodeo - 10 a.m. - North Aurora Island Park & Mt. St. Mary’s Park

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

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

13 Stories at Creek Bend Nature Center10:30 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

17 Bird Watching Walks - 9 a.m. - Burnidge Forest Preserve

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

21 Trek with a Naturalist - 5:30 p.m.Hoscheit Woods Forest Preserve

23 The I & M Canal: Connecting Illinois Farms to the Nation and the World9:30 a.m. - Barbara Belding Lodge

23 Yarn Art Social Circle - 4:30 p.m.Barbara Belding Lodge

24 Prairie Ethnobotany - 10 a.m.Sauer Family Prairie Kame

26 Finance & Admin Committee Meeting - 2:00 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

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

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

30 Women’s Weekend: A Nurturing Retreat10 a.m. - Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

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.

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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