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Unique to Illinois, Forest Preserve Districts are designed to protect large natural areas and provide passive recreation. The Lake County Forest Preserves was created in 1958 under Illinois law as a special purpose unit of government. Since then, the organization has become the principal guardian of Lake County’s open space, setting the standard in nature and historic interpretation and education, and in outdoor recreation. There are so many interesting facts and figures about your Lake County Forest Preserves. Here's a baker's dozen you should know:
Lake County is home to more endangered and threatened species than any other county in Illinois. Part of our mission is to protect and restore the natural communities that support this native diversity. Acquiring suitable land is just the first step. Recognized as a
As one of the
regional and national
There are 44 overlooks
top conservation
leader in conservation,
located in preserves
agencies in the
the Lake County
across the county. The
nation, careful
Forest Preserves is
overlooks are placed
stewardship of
the second-largest
along trailside locations
every dollar is a
Forest Preserve
that provide scenic
key factor. The
District in Illinois,
views or birdwatching
agency maintains
managing nearly
opportunities.
a balanced budget, has sound
31,000 acres of land and 207.3 miles of trails. A 162-acre land acquisition in 1961 started things off, creating the very first preserve—Van Patten Woods (Wadsworth).
reserves, long-
There are constant
Nature and history
improvements and
educators present
changes taking place.
programs to more than
debt, and a AAA
In January, the Board
20,000 schoolchildren
bond rating, an
of Commissioners
each year through field
achievement
approved a master
trips and in-school
shared by very
plan for Lakewood
programs. Thousands
few forest
(Wauconda). Acquired
more adults and
preserves and
in 1968, Lakewood
children are reached
park districts
has 2,835 acres and
through public programs.
in the nation.
term replacement funds, moderate
is the largest forest preserve in Lake County. Engineering work began this year, followed by construction in 2021. View plans and track progress at
LCFPD.org/projects. The Middle Fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River runs through Middlefork Savanna (Lake Forest). Before it was channelized, the river was quite wide and shallow, much like the Everglades. HORI ZONS QUARTERLY FALL 2 02 0