Winter TreeLine 2026

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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

Vacant, 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

Ashley Monroe, Deputy 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.

Cover Photo Winter quiet settles over Les Arends Forest Preserve in Batavia.
Photo by Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick

A fallen oak at Bliss Woods deserves a fitting epitaph

After a majestic, 250-year old Burr Oak unexpectedly came down at Bliss Woods Forest Preserve in Sugar Grove, Aug. 19, an outpouring of comments, photographs and memories followed.

Downed trees can feel like a loss, but they are, of course, a natural occurrence. They often remain part of the ecosystem after falling, providing habitat and food for wildlife, and space and sunlight for new plants to grow. With an oak, we can also appreciate the years of acorns they’ve provided, that have helped to enrich the forest and sustain wildlife — it’s all part of the process. However, when the giant Burr Oak fell at Bliss Woods, a sense of loss reverberated throughout Kane County. This wasn’t just any tree; it was perhaps the most memorable tree in the entire Forest Preserve District.

This particular Burr Oak was hard to miss. It was located along the entrance drive to Bliss Woods, at the bottom of the hill, near the main parking lot. To access the lot, one had to drive under the oak’s large, horizontal branches, which grew relatively low on the trunk. Tall trucks wouldn’t fit underneath it. The tree served as a sort of sentinel at the gateway to the preserve.

When the tree came down on the morning of Aug. 19, the preserve was open, with visitors already in the parking lot. Thankfully, no one was injured.

Forest Preserve District South Operations Crew Leader Alex Donat said the tree fell due to rot in the base of the trunk as well as the amount of recent rain. “The water and all of the live wood above ground created a massive weight that the compromised trunk couldn’t handle. The rotten parts gave way, and it fell over during a clear morning with sunny skies and little

wind. It was just its time,” he said.

Donat was part of the crew charged with cutting and removing the fallen tree. He estimated it took three staffers a combined 75 hours with chainsaws, rakes, blowers, a skid steer with a grapple bucket, and tandem-axle dump truck to safely clear the area. They left three large portions of the tree on site for preserve users to examine and appreciate. He also counted the rings in the trunk.

To register: Visit www.kaneforest.com/register, call (630) 444-3190 or e-mail programs@kaneforest.com

There were 250 of them, making the tree older than the preserve itself. Bliss Woods Forest Preserve is the second-oldest preserve in the District, established in 1928. The tree was also older than the entire Forest Preserve District, which formed in 1925, and celebrated its centennial, this year. Incredibly, at 250 years, the tree was also older than the Declaration of Independence by one year.

See Burr Oak, continued on page 9

Burr Oak Scenes
Top: The original Burr Oak in all its glory. Photo courtesy Jan Clements. Bottom-left: South Operations Crew Leader Alex Donat holds up one of the remaining pieces of the fallen Burr Oak. Bottom-right: You can see the scale of the massive oak when Ranger Assistant Thomas Sanchez stands in front of the fallen 250-year old tree, prior to clearing it from the roadway.
Laurie Metanchuk, Community Engagement Director

Embrace the chill of winter in your local forest preserves

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 groups must schedule a separate tour. Advance registration is required for all nature programs, unless otherwise specified.

Winter Wildlife Series ❄

Our forest preserves are bustling with all manner of interesting activity during the winter months. Join Forest Preserve District naturalists as we tour the County, and shine a spotlight on some of the interesting characters to keep a lookout for, this season.

Chipper Chickadees ❄

Chickadees are easily spotted at backyard feeders and can be found in virtually any area with trees. Their distinctive call and curious nature make them a delight to observe for birders and naturalists of all ages! This program will include both an indoor presentation and trail hiking. Bring your own binoculars if possible. We will have a few additional sets available to borrow.

Saturday, Dec. 6; 10-11 a.m.

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

Evening Owl Stroll ❄

Following the sunset, night-life begins to stir. Owls have captivated people for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Stroll nighttime trails with a naturalist to learn about the cultural history, anatomy and lore of these impressive birds. Register for one session only. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Thursday, Dec. 18; 4:30-6 p.m.

Campton Forest Preserve 4N379 Town Hall Rd., St. Charles FREE

Friday, Feb. 6; 4:30-6 p.m.

Campton Forest Preserve 4N379 Town Hall Rd., St. Charles FREE

Search for Short-eared Owls ❄

Some animals actually enjoy traveling to the Midwest to enjoy our winter weather. Such is the case for the Short-eared Owl! Searching for this unique bird of prey is the perfect inspiration to get outside in the fresh, frigid air. We’ll explore the fascinating world of raptors, and with any luck, catch a glimpse of Short-eared Owls returning to this preserve.

Monday, Jan. 5; 4-5 p.m.

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

Eagles along the Fox River ❄

Did you know that magnificent flying creatures live among us, right along the Fox River Valley? With a wing span of more than six feet, Bald Eagles are hard to miss. Learn about their fascinating history while we hike along the river in search of eagles.

Saturday, Jan. 10; 10-11 a.m.

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve 35W003 Rte. 31, South Elgin FREE

Woodchuck Watch ❄

Get a head start on Punxsutawney Phil on this naturalist-guided hike. Woodchucks — a.k.a., Groundhogs — are among the few true hibernators in our area. We can base weather predictions on whether they emerge from hibernation before Groundhog Day. Learn about the differences between hibernation, torpor, and dormancy, as we search for these sleepy rodents.

Friday, Jan. 30; 1-2 p.m.

Hampshire Forest Preserve 44W880 Allen Rd., Hampshire FREE

Beaver Tales ❄

Beavers have been called nature’s engineers, but just what does that mean? How do beavers accomplish their work? Learn about beaver adaptations and discover how and why beavers build dams and lodges. Our naturalist will lead a stroll to discover the work of beavers along nearby Ferson Creek.

Sunday, Feb. 22; 1-2 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Yarn Art Social Circle

Join our monthly circle of conversation over yarn art. Bring your own knit, crochet or other project to work within a group of yarn enthusiasts. Yarn crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Register for one class or the entire year! Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, Dec. 13; 4-5:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Saturday, Jan. 10; 4-5:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Saturday, Feb. 7; 4-5:30 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Photo

Bird Watching Walks

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

Friday, Dec. 19; 10-11 a.m.

Hampshire Forest Preserve 44W880 Allen Rd., Hampshire FREE

Friday, Jan. 16; 10-11 a.m.

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

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

Buffalo Park Forest Preserve 19N475 IL Rte. 31, Algonquin FREE

Full Moon Hike

Start the new year off right with an evening hike to bask in the light of the first super moon of 2026! Learn about the cycles of the moon while we watch the moon rise over the flowing waters of the Fox River. This program is completely outside, so please dress for the weather.

Saturday, Jan. 3; 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve 35W003 Rte. 31, South Elgin FREE

Polar-Palooza

Don’t let the winter blues get you down. Drift in and thaw out at Creek Bend Nature Center during this nature-based arcade experience! Complete a flurry of activities indoors and out — earning tickets to redeem for prizes. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while you play and learn. From crafts to games, Polar-Palooza activities are appropriate for all ages, so gather up your family and friends for this popular winter festival. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.

Saturday, Jan. 17; Noon - 3 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

EcoLab: My Chemical Romance

Love is in the air this month, and so are countless chemicals. Step into our EcoLab to investigate the reactions and processes that animals use to attract mates. Our investigations will include experiments that cause exceptional chemical reactions! Find out if love is heating up or cooling down! Ages 7 and above. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, Feb. 14; 10-11:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

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

Youth Programs

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

Twigs

to Trees

Extending our popular Little Saplings program, Twigs to Trees is designed for school age children in

kindergarten to second grade. During each session, we’ll investigate seasonal nature themes as we explore the woods and wilds with nature-based play. This is a drop-off program; caregivers will not stay with their children.

The Pines

Tuesday, Dec. 9; 4-5 p.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Owl Prowl

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Native American Maple Sugaring Traditions

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

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 December storytime experience, head outside to read a second book along the StoryWalk®! No registration required.

Wednesday, Dec. 10; 10:30-11 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Wednesday, Feb. 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 specific to the theme of the month. Sessions include a combination of stories, nature hikes, songs, games

or crafts. A caregiver must accompany child.

Busy Bobcats

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Feisty Foxes

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Sweet & Sappy

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

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

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

Adult Programs

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

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 during these hikes to nurture the mind, body and spirit. Ages 18 and above.

Sunday, Dec. 28; 10-11 a.m.

Hannaford Woods Forest Preserve 5S002 Merrill Rd., Sugar Grove FREE

Sunday, Jan. 25; 10-11 a.m.

Les Arends Forest Preserve 2S731 IL Rte. 31, Batavia FREE

Sunday, Feb. 22; 10-11 a.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve (Meet at red barns)

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles FREE

Senior Stroll - Holiday Potluck

Seniors (age 50 or better) are invited to join naturalists for a holiday potluck party! We’ll have games and treats. Please bring a store-bought treat to pass.

Holiday Potluck Party

Thursday, Dec. 4; 10 a.m. - Noon

Barbara Belding Lodge

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

Senior Stroll - Travelogue: Journey to Mexico - the Monarch Migration!

Join Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick for a travelogue about her recent trek to the monarch overwintering grounds in mountainous Michoacan, Mexico. Enjoy this marvelous spectacle of nature while enjoying Mexican hot chocolate and sweet treats.

Thursday, Jan. 8; 10 a.m. - Noon

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve

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

Photo courtesy Adobe Stock/Vasyl

Senior Stroll - Walk

Seniors (age 50 or better) are invited to join naturalists to explore a preserve, and learn about the natural and cultural history surrounding the land. For the February outing, dress for the weather — it will include a pleasant ramble lasting about an hour, followed by refreshments and social time in the shelter. No registration required.

Senior Stroll Outdoor Walk

Thursday, Feb. 5; 10 a.m. - Noon Creek Bend Nature Center

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

Trek with a Naturalist

Winter is a wonderful time for an invigorating hike. 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.

Saturday, Dec. 6; 9-11 a.m.

Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve 50 Airport Rd., Elgin FREE

Saturday, Jan. 3; 9-11 a.m.

Arlene Shoemaker Forest Preserve 1400 Felten Rd., Aurora FREE

Thursday, Feb. 26; 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Glenwood Park Forest Preserve 1644 S. River St., Batavia FREE

Winter Solstice Mindful Movement

The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day in the year and many cultures consider it to be a day of hope for the new year. End 2025 on a calming, restorative note during this reflective, mindful movement session led by local wellness instructor, Jennifer Falbo-Negron. She will guide us

through a heat-building practice using postures, breath work, movements, and acupressure — perfect for building strength, tone, and flexibility. Bring a mat and any props that help you reach the floor, extend a stretch, and sit up tall.

Saturday, Dec. 20; 9-10:30 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles Fee: $15/person

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.

Ecology of Fermilab

In 2025, Fermilab celebrated the 50th anniversary of its first prairie planting. While that is one of the most notable aspects of ecology at the lab, there is much more to their natural area story. Listen to a history of Fermilab prairie restoration and discover other animal and natural area highlights in this presentation by Walter Levernier, Fermilab Senior Natural Resources Specialist.

Saturday, Feb. 7; 9:30-11 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

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

Bison Tales and Tallgrass Trails

Come to this exciting presentation featuring Cindy Crosby as she tells the tale of the largest and most charismatic of Illinois’ mammals — the bison! Learn how bison play a role in Illinois’ original garden, the tallgrass prairie. Hear about bison in literature, music and art, and see beautiful photography of the native plants they are associated with, many suitable for the home garden. Then,

Photo by Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick

discover where you can see bison and prairie in “The Prairie State.”

Sunday, Feb. 15; 10-11:30 a.m.

Barbara Belding Lodge

Brewster Creek Forest Preserve 6N921 IL Rte. 25, St. Charles Fee: $15/person

Winter Tree Identification

During this class, you’ll learn how to identify trees without leaves. Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick will provide an introduction indoors, followed by a hike in the woods. We’ll examine bark, branches, twigs, leaf scars and buds, and use these for identification.

Sunday, Feb. 22; 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Creek Bend Nature Center

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., 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. Visit @ forestpreserve for the latest virtual programs released each month. View seasonal Nature, Virtually Everywhere! programs at bit.ly/FPDKCYouTube

Holiday Nature Craft 

Skip the trip to the big-box craft supply stores and learn how to use nature-found materials to create unique, eco-friendly home and gift decor.

Nurtured by Nature 

From forest bathing to bird watching, being in nature has been proven to have positive health effects. Scientists have learned that time spent in nature can decrease stress, blood

pressure, mental fatigue and even insomnia. Join us as we take a walk in the woods and utilize our senses to explore nature and feel ‘present.’ Then, take your own hike to drink in nature’s healing powers.

Conifer Concoctions 

After some fun in the snow, nothing warms you up better than a mug of hot...pine tea! Join us as we discuss various brew methods for pine and cedar tea.

APRIL 25, FROM 8 A.M. - NOON

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

Photo courtesy Adobe Stock/good moments

“This tree was special,” Donat said. “It’s important to recognize the longevity and tenacity of this species, and what wonders nature is capable of, especially with some conservation help and support from the public” he said.

Mary Ochsenschlager has served as the Forest Preserve District’s volunteer steward at Bliss Woods for many years, first in the 1980s, and again since 2007, following her retirement as a naturalist with the St. Charles Park District. “It has been fun to count the rings and imagine all the different things the tree has seen during its life. How lucky we are that first the Native Americans, then the early immigrants, and after that, the successive land owners didn’t cut it down,” she said.

“The branch [hanging over the roadway] had the circumference of a medium-aged tree. People loved to take photographs of it, it was obviously so old. It was sad to have it fall but it’s good to raise awareness

of how awesome these trees are,” Ochsenschlager said.

Forest Preserve District Executive Director Benjamin Haberthur talked about why this tree resonated with so many. “The number of individual trees the District protects is in the millions. Each one of those is sacred, but somehow a few — either through sheer size, location or something undefined — really seem to stand out as something special. There is a big, sun-grown Burr Oak on the northwest side of Burton Woods, within Dick Young Forest Preserve in Batavia, that has it. A Swamp White Oak back in Helm Woods in Barrington Hills also has it. Certainly, the big oak with the massive lateral branch overhanging the roadway at Bliss Woods had it.

“Historically, Burr Oak branches were the perch for the now-extinct Passenger Pigeon. One can’t help but feel a connection to nature, history, and the importance of conservation, when in the presence

Volunteers tally some amazing numbers in 2024.

Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

Forest Preserve District of Kane County volunteers were celebrated, Sept. 10, at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.

This year’s event was held at The Wilds at Red Oak in North Aurora.

Executive Director Benjamin Haberthur welcomed the group, covering highlights from the past year. He then turned it over to Historian

Al Watts, who gave a presentation on the District’s history. Volunteer Coordinator Robb Cleave announced volunteers of the year in each service area, and discussed the incredible stats the volunteers collectively amassed in 2024.

In total, 3,896 volunteers tallied 15,243 total hours in 2024. That work is equivalent to a workforce contribution of $539,303.97! Hours included 811 different workdays and events. Here’s a breakdown of the hours in various volunteer areas:

• Natural Resources: 10,945.75

• Environmental Education: 1,187.75

• Preservation Partners: 1,555

• Mounted Rangers: 1,097.75

• Windmillers: 361

of trees like these,” he said.

Forest Preserve staff posted pictures of the fallen tree on social media. More than 37,700 people viewed the photos, and more than 500 shared their thoughts, memories and their own photos. Some expressed loss, others shared memories of birding or picnicking nearby. Another suggested people plant oak trees in remembrance.

Ochsenschlager said that in our area, oak trees are the keystone species in the forests and savannas. She said keystone species are defined as those on which other species in the ecosystem largely depend, such that if it were removed, the ecosystem would drastically change. “That’s why people are urged to plant oak trees in their yards rather than some hybridized species from some place far away that will never provide any support for the local plants and animals. Planting an oak is a gift to the future,” she said. Indeed, this Burr Oak was a gift to all of us. n

Come join them!

• Trails and Recreation: 48.5

• Snowmobile Safety Patrol: 47.5

Thank you to everyone who helps work to make the District better through their service!

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.

Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley Winter Programs

Candlelight Open House at Durant-Peterson House & Sholes School

At the House: Take a step back in time and enjoy the beauty of this historic home, all ready for the holidays. Decorated with fragrant evergreens, beautiful music in the parlor, the sweet taste of old-fashioned ginger cake and a fire providing the warmth — this is an Open House you shouldn’t miss. Costumed docents will share history as you stroll from room to room. Come see how families in the 1800s might have celebrated Christmas.

At the School: Historically, students of each one-room school would have put on a Christmas Pageant on the last day of class before Christmas break. Join Sholes School students as they present this year’s special program. Watch as the teacher directs her students to recite their favorite lessons from the year, and join in while everyone sings our favorite Christmas Carols!

Saturday, Dec. 6 & Sunday, Dec. 7; 2-6 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $5/adult and $1/child Space is limited. Reservations are encouraged at ppfv.org/Candlelight

Fireside Sunday

Take a break from the January chill and warm yourself by the fire in our historic 1843 pioneer home. Enjoy the sights and smells as we prepare foods over the fires in the hearth and on the old wood-burning stove. Take time to play some old-fashioned games and learn about what the pioneers did to keep themselves warm in the winter. Sholes School will be open for you to practice your cursive on a slate, read from the McGuffey’s Readers, and recite some wonderful memory gems.

Sunday, Jan. 18; 1-4 p.m.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $3/adult and $1/child No reservations required.

Celebrate America’s 250th

The year 2026 marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776!

Visit Sholes School as we focus on Presidents’ Day to kick off the year-long celebration. Get a history lesson about George Washington and Abraham Lincoln — both born in February. Hear how American citizens celebrated the 100th anniversary (in 1876) and 200th anniversary (in 1976), and create a 250th Anniversary souvenir to take home.

At the Durant-Peterson House, enjoy a warm fire in the hearth room and smell the aroma of the winter stew, while examining writings from the family diaries that document daily life in 1876. Come find out what the Durants were doing when the nation celebrated its 100th anniversary.

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

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles Fee: $3/adult and $1/child No reservations required.

December

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

4 Senior Stroll Holiday Potluck - 10 a.m.Barbara Belding Lodge

6 Trek with a Naturalist - 9 a.m. - Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve

6 Chipper Chickadees - 10 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

18 Land Acquisition Committee Meeting - 1 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

18 Planning & Utilization Committee Meeting - 2 p.m. - Forest Preserve District Headquarters

18 Evening Owl Stroll - 4:30 p.m. - Campton Forest Preserve

19 Bird Watching Walks - 10 a.m.Hampshire Forest Preserve

20 Winter Solstice Mindful Movement - 9 a.m. - Barbara Belding Lodge

28 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m. - Hannaford Woods Forest Preserve

January

3 Trek with a Naturalist - 9 a.m. - Arlene Shoemaker Forest Preserve

3 Full Moon Hike - 4:30 p.m. - Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve

5 Search for Short-eared Owls - 4 p.m.Brunner Family Forest Preserve

8 Senior Stroll Travelogue: Journey to Mexico - 10 a.m. - Barbara Belding Lodge

10 Eagles along the Fox River - 10 a.m. - Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve

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

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

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

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

16 Bird Watching Walks - 10 a.m. - Big Rock Forest Preserve

17 Polar-Palooza - Noon - Creek Bend Nature Center

25 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m. - Les Arends Forest Preserve

30 Woodchuck Watch - 1 p.m. - Hampshire Forest Preserve

February

1 Bird Watching Walks - 10 a.m. - Buffalo Park Forest Preserve

5 Senior Stroll - 10 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

6 Evening Owl Stroll - 4:30 p.m. - Campton Forest Preserve

7 Ecology of Fermilab - 9:30 a.m. - Barbara Belding Lodge

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

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

14 EcoLab: My Chemical Romance - 10 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

15 Bison Tales and Tallgrass Trails - 10 a.m.Barbara Belding Lodge

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

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

22 Winter Tree Identification - 9:30 a.m.Creek Bend Nature Center

22 Nurtured by Nature - 10 a.m. - LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

22 Beaver Tales - 1 p.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

26 Trek with a Naturalist - 3:30 p.m.Glenwood Park Forest Preserve

March

7 Maple Sugaring Days - Noon - Creek Bend Nature Center

8 Maple Sugaring Days - Noon - Creek Bend Nature Center

16 A Day with the Birds Exhibit Opens - 10 a.m. - Creek Bend Nature Center

NOTE: All events are subject to change/cancellation. Please register in advance, so that we have accurate numbers and can contact you if a program is moved or cancelled.

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

Don’t miss a nature program!

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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 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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