every acre is ESSENTIAL
Since 1958, the Lake County Forest Preserves has stewarded public funds to protect, manage and restore more than 31,200 acres across 65 sites to provide a healthy, resilient home for 28,850 native plant, animal and insect species as well as miles of trails and countless experiences for all to enjoy.
The Forest Preserves is an essential part of our community. Every acre of restored forest preserve land provides cleaner air, improved water quality, enhanced recreational and health benefits, habitat for pollinators, increased carbon storage and greater flood reduction.
But our restored lands face ongoing threats from invasive species, exotic pests and unpredictable weather. Today’s changing climate requires forward-thinking solutions and innovative, high-quality stewardship of the forest preserves to ensure they remain resilient in an uncertain future .
“
Even if we don’t set foot in one, the forest preserves are always working for us.”
Jessica
Vealitzek
President, Lake County Forest Preserves
Lake County Forest Preserves “
We lead by example, bringing together public and private partners to restore and protect the natural assets of Lake County.”
Ty Kovach Executive
Director,
every acre must be RESILIENT
Preserving and protecting our natural lands requires careful stewardship and investment. On average, the cost of every acre is:
$40,000 to preserve it
$15,000 to restore it
$75 every year to keep it healthy
Restoring and maintaining the forest preserves requires a close partnership between public support and private philanthropy.
The Forest Preserves leverages public tax dollars to fund the preservation of land, restoration of native habitats and construction of parking lots, trails and overlooks for public access and enjoyment.
The Preservation Foundation helps donors—like you—invest in the mission and work of the Forest Preserves, supporting everything from major restoration projects to public programs.
During the pandemic, we had the opportunity to walk the entire Des Plaines River Trail and we were so impressed by the beauty, splendor and most of all, the caliber at which Lake County cares for its forest preserves. We are extremely grateful that we live so close because these are sacred spaces to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We all benefit from the forest preserves, whether we visit them or not, and we must continue supporting them.”
Brian & Gretchen Boyer Northbrook
It is phenomenally impressive to see how the Lake County Forest Preserves have grown since we moved here over 30 years ago. All these years later, we are still surprised by the beauty that they offer every time we visit. We are the beneficiaries of the wonderful forest preserves of today. We want to be the ones to ensure they are healthy for tomorrow and that the next generation can enjoy the same access that we have.”
Kay Griesbach & Pat Akstulewicz Wadsworth
every acre NEEDS YOU
The Community Campaign for Lake County Forest Preserves will create a $20 million endowment to protect the forest preserves you love, ensuring every acre of habitat we restore remains ecologically healthy and provides a continuous benefit to our communities.
Endowments are a powerful tool, as they deliver a dependable, perpetual source of funding. The endowment must reach $20 million to generate the $800,000 needed every year to provide ongoing care of our restored lands. Your support is vital in helping us reach our goal!
By contributing to the endowment, you are investing in natural lands that will enrich the lives of everyone in Lake County for generations. The impact of your contribution increases over time and ensures the forest preserves remain resilient forever.
Your gift makes a significant difference today and in the future.
The endowment will permanently fund innovative, climate-informed land management of the forest preserves, enabling activities such as:
Re-treating invasive species, including buckthorn, honeysuckle and teasel.
Re-planting native seeds, trees and shrubs that can adapt to a changing climate.
Conducting prescribed burns to keep land healthy.
Monitoring plants, animals and insects to ensure our actions are effective.
“
We all have a role in stewarding the land, and our gifts today will live on for future generations.”
Betsy Hough President, Preservation Foundation
every acre PROTECTED
We invite you to join The Community Campaign for Lake County Forest Preserves and ensure every acre of habitat we restore remains ecologically healthy. Forever.
There are many ways you can support the campaign to keep every acre STRONG :
GIVE ONLINE: LCFPD.org/endowment or scan the QR code.
GIVE BY PHONE: 847-968-3110
MAIL A GIFT TO:
Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, IL 60048 or use the envelope in your Horizons magazine.
Gifts of APPRECIATED STOCKS OR SECURITIES are easy to make and provide great tax benefits.
Maximize your support and minimize taxes through IRA DISTRIBUTIONS, RETIREMENT PLAN ASSETS OR LIFE INSURANCE .
Make an impact for your community today.
Since 1958, the Lake County Forest Preserves has preserved, managed and restored Lake County’s open space and natural lands. We protect more than 31,200 acres across 65 unique sites for conservation, recreation and education. Each year, we restore these habitats, acre by acre, for native plants and animals to thrive. The Community Campaign for Lake County Forest Preserves ensures we have adequate resources to maintain these exceptional natural spaces. With your help, we can care for these public lands for today and for future generations to enjoy. Join us.
Discover more about the work of the Lake County Forest Preserves at LCFPD.org and @LCFPD
Photography: Bob Callebert, Kendall Donahue, John D. Kavc, R. Scott McNeill, Justine Neslund, Andy Raupp