Summer TreeLine 2024

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 well-being 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:

Christopher W. Kious, President, District 23

Mavis Bates, President Pro Tem, District 4

Myrna Molina, Secretary, District 1

Dale Berman, District 2

Anita Marie Lewis, District 3

Bill Lenert, District 5

Ron Ford, District 6

Monica Silva, 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

Mark Davoust, District 14

David Young, District 15

Mike Kenyon, 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

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 Affairs

Brittany Kovach, Communications & Marketing Coordinator

Barb McKittrick, Environmental Education Manager

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.

Advance

Cover Photo

A vibrant monarch butterfly gracefully settles upon a cluster of orange butterfly weed flowers at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. Photo by Naturalist Erica Lemon

registration is required unless otherwise specified in the program description.

Photo by Naturalist Erica Lemon

Double-brood Mood: The 2024 Cicada Emergence Explained

Lauren Swanson, Marketing Assistant

This year, from mid-May to late-June, billions of periodical cicadas will simultaneously push up through the Earth, including right here in Kane County.

For the last 13-17 years, they’ve spent their entire existence as nymphs, a mere two feet underground, molting through five developmental phases called instars. Feeding off water and nutrients from the roots of perennials, these translucent nymphs have been patiently awaiting their epic emergence.

And epic it will be!

For the first time in 221 years, periodical cicada Brood XIII (thirteen) and Brood XIX (nineteen) will co-emerge in Illinois. If the rarity of this event has yet to sink in, consider this: the last time these two broods synced up was in 1803 when Thomas Jefferson was the third president of the United States. The previous coemergence was in 1582, before the pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.

Where can I see the show?

While the ranges of these two distinct broods are adjacent, they do not significantly overlap. There may be some brood crossover in locations such as Springfield, but not in Kane County. We hope you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of these incredible singing insects in our preserves. Their preferred habitat is undisturbed, mature woodlands.

membranes (tymbals) near the base of their abdomen, which produces a rhythmical tick, buzz, or whine. If interested, the female cicada will click her wings in response.

After mating, female cicadas use a sharp, tubular organ (oviposter) to cut open pencil-sized branches and deposit their eggs. The process may damage young saplings if females are numerous. After all, one female cicada can lay up to 500 eggs. Once hatched, cicada nymphs fall to the ground, burrow into the earth, and the cycle starts anew.

Brood XIII - (Photo courtesy Cicadamania.com)

Nickname: Northern IL Brood

Life Cycle: 17-year periodical cicada

Species: Magicicada septendecim, Magicicada cassini, and Magicicada septendecula

Brood XIX - (Photo courtesy Cicadamania.com)

Nickname: The Great Southern Brood

Before you get too excited, or freaked out (depending on your relationship with insects,) there are a few things to keep in mind. Each brood has its own respective range. In the northern half of Illinois, we can expect to see Brood XIII, which follows a 17year cycle. The largest of the cicada broods, Brood XIX aptly named the Great Southern Brood will grace the southern half of Illinois, just as it does every 13 years.

Life Cycle: 13-year periodical cicada

Species: Magicicada tredecim, Magicicada neotredecim, Magicicada tredecassini, and Magicicada tredecula

What’s with all the noise?

To put it simply, it’s mating season. For the next four to six weeks, adult cicadas will be focused on reproduction. Male cicadas gather in large clusters, called choruses, and begin to “sing” in hopes of attracting a female. To do so, they vibrate

Do they bite?

You're only at risk if you’re the branch of a small tree or a shrub loaded with sugar. Adult cicadas don’t bite or sting, but they do probe, pierce and drink. So, while it’s unlikely, it is possible to be pierced by a curious cicada. Not to worry, the sensation is equivalent to that of a pin prick. So, if a cicada does land on you, just gently brush it off.

Cicadas are a valuable food source for humans and wildlife, such as birds and other predators. Additionally, they help aerate the soil and replenish soil nutrients when they die and decompose.

How

will

you know

if you’ve seen a periodical or an annual cicada?

Annual cicadas have a green-ish to dark gray colored body and brown or black eyes, while periodicals tend to be dark brown and black with orange to red eyes.

You can be a community scientist and report cicada sightings by using the CicadaSafari app or visit https://cicadasafari.org. Enjoy this epic show!

Explore the Wonders of Nature: Summer Program Adventures Await!

All-Ages Programs

All ages are welcome to attend these programs unless otherwise specified. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Organized parties must schedule a separate tour.

The Cicadas are Coming!

Have you heard the news? Periodical cicadas are emerging in Illinois this summer! If you’re wondering what’s so special about this year’s cicada emergence, then be sure to register for this interpretive program. District naturalists will have fascinating information to share as we hike along the trail in search of these unique, and raucous, insects!

Tuesday, June 18; 4-5 p.m.

Fabyan Forest Preserve West 1925 Batavia Ave., IL Rte. 31, Geneva FREE

Yarn Art Social Circle

Join Naturalist Erica Lemon for a 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, June 1; 4:30-6 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Saturday, June 29; 4:30-6 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Saturday, July 27; 4:30-6 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles; FREE

Saturday, Aug. 24; 4:30-6 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles FREE

Creek Exploration Series ��

Get your feet wet in local waterways this summer! Our Fox River watershed is composed of streams, creeks and rivers that support a wealth of aquatic wildlife. Bring the whole family out to discover the unique riverine systems right in your own backyard. And what better way to learn about them than to actually get into them?

Fascinating Lives of Freshwater Mussels ��

While not particularly cute and cuddly, these mollusks are often overlooked and underappreciated. Join District naturalists as we discuss the fascinating life cycle of freshwater

mussels and highlight their pivotal role in a healthy ecosystem. Be prepared to get wet as we wade in Tyler Creek in search of these remarkable organisms! Participants must wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Apply sunscreen and/ or bug spray prior to the program.

Wednesday, June 19; 2-3 p.m.

Tyler Creek Forest Preserve 401 Davis Rd., Elgin FREE

Crazy 4 Crayfish ��

Learn about the different types of crayfish that call Illinois home, including some species that are transplants to this region! We’ll get into the creek to discover crayfish in their native habitats during this catch and release program. Register for one session only. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Apply sunscreen and/or bug spray prior to the program.

Tuesday, July 16; 1-2 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Thursday, July 18; 1-2 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Bird Watching Walks

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

Sunday, June 23; 9-10 a.m.

Dick Young Forest Preserve

39W115 Main St., Batavia FREE

Saturday, July 20; 9-10 a.m.

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve

42W855 Bahr Rd., Hampshire FREE

Sunday, Aug. 18; 9-10 a.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Pollinators on the Prairie

Learn about the many different pollinating insects that can be found in local prairie communities. We’ll hike through the grassland looking for pollinators and will highlight some of the more unusual species that are specially adapted to pollinating native plants.

Saturday, June 29; 10-11 a.m.

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

EcoLab: Skeleton Secrets

What can bones tell us about the animal that left them behind? Amazingly enough, a creature’s skeletal system holds a vast number of

clues about its life. By understanding and leveraging these signs, we can deduce an animal’s age, diet, and behavior — true wildlife forensics! Ages 10 and above.

Saturday, July 13; 10-11:30 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve

6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles

Fee: $5/person

Prairie in Bloom

Tallgrass prairie isn’t just colored in shades of green and yellow — it explodes with all hues of the rainbow. Join a District naturalist as we stroll through the flowering prairie to see first-hand the diversity of plant species and colors that compose our beautiful prairie ecosystems.

Saturday, July 27; 9-10 a.m.

Pingree Grove Forest Preserve 14N187 Rte. 20, Pingree Grove FREE

6th Annual Rusty Rodeo

The Rusty Crayfish is a tiny aquatic creature that is an invasive species in Kane County. Help naturalists round up as many Rusty Crayfish as we can find in an effort to reduce their numbers! Families are encouraged to join naturalists in the water with dip nets to collect, identify and remove some Rusties. Prepare to get wet! Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get muddy. No registration required; Two locations available.

Saturday, Aug. 10; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. North Aurora Island Park; 4 E. State St., North Aurora FREE

Saturday, Aug. 10; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

West side of the Fox River at the Historic Piano Factory Pedestrian Bridge, off Indiana Street in St. Charles FREE

Photo by Naturalist Erica Lemon

Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing

Fingers crossed for clear skies as we look skyward for the annual Perseid meteor shower! A naturalist will help hone your stargazing skills as we seek out the constellation Perseus and the meteors associated with it. Learn about the legend of Perseus and nearby constellations. Leave your flashlights at home, but bring a chair and blanket so you can relax and comfortably view the night sky.

Sunday, Aug. 11; 8-10 p.m.

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts

Fee: $2/person

Orienteering for Beginners

Have you ever felt lost in a forest preserve? Do you have a compass in a drawer, but are not sure how to use it? Naturalists will teach you the map and compass skills needed to stay un-lost, while demonstrating how to follow clues and landscape features to keep yourself on course. Gain the confidence needed to enjoy the art of orienteering. Ages 9 and above.

Tuesday, Aug. 13; 4-5:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Fee: $2/person

Geocaching 101

If you have a sense of adventure and love a good treasure hunt, join one of the fastest growing hobbies in the world — geocaching. We’ll teach you how to use a GPS handheld device and demonstrate the workings of the geocaching app. After learning the basics, you’ll embark on a trail walk to discover the caches hidden in the forest preserve. Bring a fully charged smartphone; we will provide GPS units for use. Ages 9 and above.

Saturday, Aug. 31; 9-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles;

Fee: $2/person

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 this fun program 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 12; 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Wednesday, Aug. 14; 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 and/or crafts. A parent or caregiver must accompany child.

Flippin’ Frogs

Thursday, June 20; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles

Fee: $5/child

All A’Buzz for Pollinators

Thursday, July 18; 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles

Fee: $5/child

Crazy for Crayfish

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean Street, St. Charles

Fee: $5/child

Photo by Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick

Youth Kayak Fishing Experience

Get out on local lakes with a professional kayak fishing instructor from Chi-Yak Adventures. Using water crafts specifically designed for anglers, you’re sure to get into secret spots not reachable from shore. Whether you’re 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’ll 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. For youth entering grades 6-12.

Thursday, June 27; 8-12:30 p.m.

Oakhurst Forest Preserve

1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora

Fee: $99/person

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

Big Rock Forest Preserve

46W072 Jericho Rd., Big Rock

Fee: $99/person

Tuesday, July 30; 8-12:30 p.m.

Grunwald Forest Preserve 02S035 Lorang Rd., Elburn Fee: $99/person

Walk and Roll!

A Guided Stroller Experience

Feeling cooped up with your little one this summer? Then pack up your stroller and hit the trail for a naturalistguided hike! We’ll stick to paths that are friendly for your baby buggy, and point out interesting nature findings along the way.

Friday, Aug. 2; 9-10 a.m.

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve 42W855 Bahr Rd., Hampshire FREE

Adult Programs

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

Senior Stroll

Seniors are invited to join District

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 6; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Fabyan East Forest Preserve 1500 Crissey Ave. IL Rte. 25,, Geneva FREE

Thursday, July 11; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Pingree Grove Forest Preserve 14N187 Rte. 20, Pingree Grove FREE

Thursday, Aug. 1; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Tyler Creek Forest Preserve 401 Davis Rd., Elgin 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 during these hikes designed to nurture the mind, body and spirit. Ages 18 and above.

Sunday, June 16; 10-11 a.m.

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve 42W855 Bahr Rd., Hampshire FREE

Sunday, July 14; 10-11 a.m.

Fitchie Creek Forest Preserve 39W933 Russell Rd., Elgin FREE

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

Pingree Grove Forest Preserve 14N187 Rte. 20, Pingree Grove FREE

Photo by Naturalist Josh Libman

Trek with a Naturalist

Get in your daily 10,000 steps during these invigorating naturalistled 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 20; 6-8 p.m.

Barnes Forest Preserve

39W001 Prairie St., Aurora FREE

Thursday, July 18; 6-8 p.m.

Burnidge Forest Preserve

14N035 Coombs Rd., Elgin FREE

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

Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve

13N240 Engel Rd., Burlington FREE

Explore the Fox River by Kayak

Our 2024 kayaking series begins with a beginner’s lake-based paddling skills class, followed by shorter and less-strenuous river sessions. As the summer progresses, choose increasingly longer and more technical paddles for intermediate skill levels. Participants will receive dry-land instruction on basic kayaking techniques from an experienced instructor each session, and then hit the water to practice these skills. Participants meet at the take-out location and are shuttled to the putin location. Choose any number of sessions to take. 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.

Saturday, June 1; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

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.)

Sunday, June 23; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Meeting at: Fox River Shores Forest Preserve; 716 Williams Rd., Carpentersville

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 14; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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

Paddle Distance: 4-5 miles

Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate

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

Saturday, Aug. 17; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Meeting at: McCullough Park; 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora

Paddle Distance: 5.5 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

Saturday, Sept. 21; 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

Sunday, Oct. 6; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Meeting at: McCullough Park; 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora

Paddle Distance: 5.5 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

Photo by Marketing Assistant Lauren Swanson

The National Park Service in Our Region: Places to Experience Our Cultural History

While popular images of the National Park Service (NPS) often focus on spectacular scenic sites in the American West or significant historic sites out east, the NPS has a meaningful presence in and near Illinois. National Monuments and Trails, National Heritage Areas, National Historic Landmarks, and sites on the National Register of Historic Places contribute to our understanding of the region’s cultural history in tangible, visible forms that make “history come alive.” As significant as these sites are, some remain less known and underappreciated. Dr. Norm Moline, an Illinois Humanities Road Scholar who also has served on the Illinois Historic Sites Advisory Council, will showcase some culturerelated National Monuments and National Heritage Areas in our state, National Historic Landmarks in northern Illinois, and National Register of Historic Places in Kane County. Discover the cultural history that is

literally right before our eyes! Ages 18 and above.

Saturday, Aug. 3; 9:30-11 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 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 like-minded souls during moderate outdoor activities as we explore the benefits of nature walking, botanizing, yoga, artistic creation and other therapeutic pursuits. Overnight participants need to provide a tent and sleeping gear; you are welcome to leave for the evening to sleep in your own bed, and then return the following morning. We’ll supply snacks, all meals, activity instruction and supplies, and access to indoor bathrooms, shower, and kitchen. Ages 18 and above.

Saturday, Sept. 7; 10 a.m. -

Sunday, Sept. 8; 10 a.m.

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts Fee: $149/person

Learn from the Experts Programs

These classes about local ecology are taught by experts in the field. This award-winning program series is co-sponsored by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the St. Charles Park District, and the Geneva Park District. Ages 18 and above. No online registration; checks should be payable to Geneva Park District.

Welcome Back, Brood XIII

Seventeen years after we last saw—and heard—them, the periodical cicadas of Brood XIII are predicted to return to our area in late May and early June. This class will begin and end at Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve. After an introduction to their life cycle and a brief overview of their history in eastern Kane County, we will proceed to Third Street in Geneva to observe the insects in action. Register for one session only, not both.

Saturday, June 1; 9-10:30 a.m.

Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve

719 Batavia Ave., Geneva Fee: $10/person

Wednesday, June 5; 6-7:30 p.m.

Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve

719 Batavia Ave., Geneva Fee: $10/person

Start in Your Yard

Native plantings are all the rage…for good reason.

Kane County Wild Ones

Photo by Naturalist Amber Ross

members Kim Haag, Nancy Lamia and Jean Muntz will demonstrate how to get started planting natives in your own yard. They will explain the Start in Your Yard Initiative, including details of how it began, what it involves, and how you can get involved.

Tuesday, June 11; 7-8:30 p.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve

6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles

Fee: $10/person

Farms and Barns

Farms and barns comprised the landscape of Kane County for many years. Today, farms are being sold and old barns are being left to decay. But there are a few places where we can take a trip back in time to learn about the history of our farm culture and how barns played a vital role in farm life. Join Jerome Johnson on a tour of the restored barns at Garfield Farm & Tavern Museum, exploring how each barn was constructed to meet the needs of crop plants, farm animals, and their human caretakers.

Thursday, June 27; 7-8:30 p.m.

Garfield Farm & Tavern Museum

3N016 Garfield Rd., St. Charles

Fee: $10/person

Fish Species of the Fox River

Adam Dagley will explore the wide variety of fish species commonly found in the Fox River and surrounding rivers in northern Illinois. He will also discuss the impact of fish on aquatic systems, the eating habits of regional fish species, and locations where these fish can be found. Learn how environmental factors contribute to the presence or lack thereof of a given species. This promises to be a great program for all existing and potential anglers!

Thursday, July 11; 6-7 p.m.

Peck Farm Park Orientation Barn

4038 Kaneville Rd., Geneva Fee: $10/person

It’s the Bombus!

A bumblebee’s a bumblebee, right? Yes, and no. In Illinois, there are twelve 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. Choose either of the two sessions.

Saturday, July 20; 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Tuesday, July 23; 6:30-8 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Our Urban Forests

Our valuable and beautiful trees don’t all grow in forest preserves. Trinity Pierce, Chicago Region Trees

Bee in Foxglove at Pingree Grove Forest Preserve. Photo by Naturalist Erica Lemon. Join us for “It’s the Bombus!” on Saturday, July 20, or on Tuesday, July 23. At this “Learn from the Experts” program, you’ll learn about bumblebee diversity, ecological niches, and efforts to preserve and protect this important group of pollinators.

Initiative Stewardship Manager at The Morton Arboretum, will explore the local urban tree canopy using mapping data and an interpretive tree walk. She will highlight the importance of species diversity and suggest excellent native trees that can thrive in cities, towns and suburbs in northern Illinois. Learn about planting the right tree in the right place, and about other opportunities for community forestry engagement.

Tuesday, Aug. 20; 6:30-8 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

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

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 and greatest happenings released each and every month. Join our naturalists right now to get into the summer spirit! To view Forest Preserve District of Kane County virtual programs, visit 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 8 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.

Passport to Adventure

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.

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

PRESERVE YOUR LOCAL WATERSHED AT

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i n v a s i v e s p e c i e s i n K a n e

C o u n t y . J o i n n a t u r a l i s t s i n t h e w a t e r w i t h d i p

n e t s t o c o l l e c t , i d e n t i f y a n d r e m o v e s o m e R u s t i e s .

N o t e : A l l R u s t y C r a y f i s h w i l l b e u s e d t o f e e d a n i m a l a m b a s s a d o r s a t s p o n s o r i n ga g e n c i e s ’ n a t u r e c e n t e r s . Join

This special event is cosponsored by:

T w o L o c a t i o n s :

NORTH AURORA ISLAND PARK

S a t u r d a y , A u g . 1 0 ; 1 0 a . m . - 1 2 p . m .

N o r t h A u r o r a I s l a n d P a r k

4 E . S t a t e S t . , N o r t h A u r o r a

F R E E

HISTORIC PIANO FACTORY

S a t u r d a y , A u g . 1 0 ; 1 0 a . m . - 1 2 p . m .

M e e t o n t h e w e s t s i d e o f t h e F o x R i v e r

a t t h e H i s t o r i c P i a n o F a c t o r y P e d e s t r i a n

B r i d g e , a l o n g t h e R i v e r s i d e T r a i l a t I n d i a n a

S t , i n S t C h a r l e s

F R E E

* L e a r n m o r e a b o u t n a t i v e a n d i n v a s i v e a q u a t i c

s p e c i e s a t e d u c a t i o n a l p o p - u p e x h i b i t s a n d e n t e r

s e v e r a l c o n t e s t s t o w i n p r i z e s ! W e a r c l o s e d - t o e

s h o e s a n d c l o t h e s t h a t c a n g e t m u d d y . *

Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley Summer Programs

To register, visit ppfv.org or call

630-377-6424

Visit the Fabyan Villa & Japanese Garden

Code-breaking, a mummy, samurai and more! Join us at the Fabyan Villa this open 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.

Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays

May - September; 12-3 p.m.

Fabyan West Forest Preserve

1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva

Fee: $5/adult and $3/child. Garden accepts donations. No reservations required.

In-Depth Guided Tour of the Fabyan Villa

Our experienced staff will lead you on an hour-long guided tour through the Fabyan Villa, exploring the history of Colonel George Fabyan and his wife Nelle. Learn more about the code-breaking research that changed the world, Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture, and this so called “Eden” on the Fox River. Tickets are limited. Advance registration encouraged through www.ppfv.org.

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

Sunday, Aug. 25; 5:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Textile and Tool Day

used to manage their fields and farms. At Sholes School: Learn the craft of paper-weaving and create your own artwork to take home, or make a yarn doll to give as a gift to a friend.

Sunday, June 16; 1-4 p.m.

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

Suggested donation: $3/adult and $1/child; 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! This summer our campers will read Abba Durant’s diary excerpts from 1866 to 1875 and start a diary of their own! Each day will be unique – make corn-husk dolls, have bark boat races at the creek, learn pioneer medicine, visit the one-room Sholes School, and, on Thursday, prepare a feast fit for settlers! Spaces are limited for this four-day camp.

Complete an online registration form at https://www.ppfv.org/summer-camps

Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays

May - September; 11 a.m.

Fabyan West Forest Preserve

1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva

Fee: $10/person; Reservations encouraged.

At the Durant House: Learn how families worked with wool, flax, and cotton as they created textiles in the 1800s. Watch demonstrations of spinning, weaving, knitting, crocheting, and quilting. Also check out the many tools settlers

June 24 to June 27; 9-11:30 a.m.

Kids entering grades 3-6

Durant House Museum/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

Fee: $75/child; Reservations required.

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

Spend your summer exploring nature at outdoor camps

Explore woodland wonders, get your feet wet in local streams, and learn new skills during these five-day nature camps! Naturalists will lead hikes, activities, games and nature-based crafts based 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.

Summer Unplugged

June 10 to June 14 | 9 a.m. - noon

Kids entering grades 1st - 5th Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls

40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts

Fee: $149/child

Nature-Built Games

June 17 to June 21 | 9 a.m. - noon

Kids entering grades 1st - 5th

Creek Bend Nature Center/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Fee: $149/child

Tracking & Survival

June 24 to June 28 | 9 a.m. - noon

Kids entering grades 1st - 5th

Oakhurst Forest Preserve

1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora

Fee: $149/child

A River Runs Through It

July 8 to July 12 | 9 a.m. - noon

Kids entering grades 1st-5th

Fabyan Forest Preserve

1925 Batavia Ave., Geneva

Fee: $149/child

Circles of Life

July 15 to July 19 | 9 a.m. - noon

Kids entering grades 1st - 5th

Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve

41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn

Fee: $149/child

Mad Science

July 22 to July 26 | 9 a.m. - noon

Kids entering grades 5th - 8th

Creek Bend Nature Center/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles

Fee: $149/child

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

Detailed camp information will be provided upon registration.

Photos by Marketing Assistant Lauren Swanson

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.