Horizons quarterly // summer 2015

HORI Z ON S LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

PRESERVATION, RESTOR ATION , EDUCATION AN D RECRE ATION

QUARTERLY

summer 2015 VOLUME 24, ISSUE 3

2

4 more than

11

10 30,200 acres are

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

protected

by the lake county forest preserves .

A MESSAGE from

BOARD of COMMISSIONERS

ANN B. MAINE PRESIDENT LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

PRESIDENT

Ann B. Maine, Lincolnshire VICE PRESIDENT

Linda Pedersen, Antioch TREASURER

At a recent volunteer recognition event, once more I marveled at the commitment of our volunteers. Last year

S. Michael Rummel, Lake Forest

alone, thousands of volunteers gave 44,000 hours of their time to advance our cause. If you ask our Commis-

ASSISTANT TREASURER

sioners or staff how important volunteers, partnerships and donations are to the sustainability of your Lake

Audrey H. Nixon, North Chicago

County Forest Preserves, they will tell you that every single one makes a tremendous difference toward

restoration and land management, and to reduce buckthorn by 50 percent in Lake County through partner-

Chuck Bartels, Mundelein Carol Calabresa, Libertyville Steve Carlson, Gurnee Bonnie Thomson Carter, Ingleside Mary Ross Cunningham, Waukegan Bill Durkin, Waukegan Sandra Hart, Lake Bluff Diane Hewitt, Waukegan Aaron Lawlor, Vernon Hills Steven W. Mandel, Highland Park Sidney Mathias, Buffalo Grove Brent Paxton, Zion Nick Sauer, Lake Barrington Craig Taylor, Lake Zurich Tom Weber, Lake Villa Jeff Werfel, Grayslake Terry Wilke, Round Lake Beach

ships and outreach. This is an ambitious goal, one that will not be accomplished without countless hours of

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

hard work. Fortunately, Lake County is blessed with an army of volunteers willing to contribute just that.

Ty Kovach

advancing our mission and preserving Lake County’s quality of life. Through their gift of time and energy, volunteers help us to improve our forest preserves, expand restoration efforts, and create memories and connections to nature and history through educational programs.

It is critical that we continue to work together with our donors, partners and volunteers in new and innovative ways to secure Lake County’s natural lands for the next generation. As villages and suburbs have grown, natural areas have diminished. Some get cut off and survive as islands of green in a suburban sea. The forces of water and fire are altered or removed altogether. Predators and pollinators are eradicated. And perhaps worst of all, opportunistic plants are brought in from foreign locales. Having never evolved to co-exist with our native species, they spread unchecked, drastically altering ecosystems. Without maintenance, Lake County will no longer have such treasures as sedge meadows, flatwood forests, oak savannas or tallgrass prairies.

Instead, we’ll have wetlands strangled by invasive purple loosestrife and woodlands overrun with invasive buckthorn (learn more about buckthorn, including tips on how to identify it in your own yard, on page 14).

One of the goals defined in our Strategic Plan is to eradicate buckthorn on our forest preserve lands through

Our Stewardship Volunteers adopt a preserve and work closely with staff to develop and carry out land management plans at their sites. The intimate relationship these volunteers develop with their sites gives them

HORIZONS

a valuable perspective. They become our eyes and ears in little-traveled corners of forest preserves across the

VOLUME 24, ISSUE 3

county. They monitor the recovery of rare or endangered species and point out impact and usage issues. They are also able to work in sensitive areas where we cannot bring heavy equipment without damaging fragile

Summer 2015

EDITOR

habitat or disturbing ecosystems.

Kara Martin kmartin@LCFPD.org

Throughout the year, other preservation-minded volunteers gather together on weekends to help restore

ILLUSTRATION

wildlife habitat at preserves across the county. The work they accomplish in a few hours on a single Saturday

Kacey L. Tait

morning can benefit our area’s natural landscape for hundreds of years. Multiply that sentiment by thousands

PHOTOGRAPHY

of volunteers working thousands of hours each year, and you’ll appreciate the enormous impact this citizen brigade has on the recovery process.

You can make a real difference.

If you are interested in giving back to your public lands, we invite you to attend a Restoration Workday. For

Jim Gilbert, Jess Smith/Photosmith, Marvin Smith, Chip Williams SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES HOTLINE: 847–968–3335

more information, call our Stewardship Coordinator, Tom Smith at 847-968-3329, tasmith@LCFPD.org, or visit us online at LCFPD.org/volunteer.

Learn more about our charitable partner, The Preservation Foundation, or to donate, visit online at ThePreservationFoundation.org.

Photo and videos are periodically taken of people participating in Forest Preserve District programs and activities. All persons registering for Forest Preserve District programs/ activities or using Forest Preserve property thereby agree that any photo or video taken by the Forest Preserve District may be used by the District for promotional purposes including its website, promotional videos, brochures, fliers and other publications without additional, prior notice or permission and without compensation to the participant.

Although we don’t often think about it, soil is vital to life on earth.

It has profound importance for humans—including food security, essential ecosystem functions, and sustainable development.

What is soil, exactly? Soils are complex mixtures of minerals, water, air, countless organisms and the decaying remains of once-living things.

It forms the surface of the land—it is the earth’s skin. Soils perform vital functions, sustaining plant and animal life above and below the surface, regulating water flow, filtering and purifying water, modifying the atmosphere by emitting and absorbing gasses, cycling and storing nutrients—it even plays a role in weather and climate.

Surprisingly, soil is considered a nonrenewable resource, because it takes an average of 100 to 500 years to make just one inch of topsoil. Soil loss (erosion) affects our economy and our lives. In the U.S., about 2 billion tons of topsoil are lost each year, while only one-half ton is produced. Our soils are in danger because of expanding cities, deforestation, unsustainable land use, pollution, overgrazing and climate change. It is difficult to place a value on soil--the best thing to do is to conserve what we have. a. Fresh to partly decomposed organic matter. b. Highly decomposed organic matter in a mineral matrix; coarser mineral horizons from which iron, aluminum, clay minerals, and carbonates have moved to lower horizons. c. Fine organic material and clay minerals, accumulations of clays and iron oxides. d. Heavily decomposed parent material near top of horizon. Grades down into partially weathered to unweathered material at base. e. Unaltered parent material.

a b c d e SOIL HORIZON

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3 1) Soils of Lake County are built from debris (silt, clay, sand, gravel) left by the last glacier, which began melting approximately 21,000–25,000 years ago—a time known as the Wisconsin glacier period. Thus, our soils are known as “Wisconsin drift” soils.

Pictured left is a view from the kame, or hill formed by a retreating glacier, at Gander Mountain (Antioch).

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2) Soil types can vary wildly across relatively small areas. A soil survey at Ryerson Woods in the 1970s documented over 20 distinct soil types. Across larger areas, soil in northern Illinois (an area historically covered in glacial ice) is much younger than soil from unglaciated areas in the south. “Drummer” soil is formed under prairie vegetation, and is the type found most extensively in Illinois. It has a deep, dark layer of topsoil rich in organic matter.

3) This enormous fossil-covered rock was discovered in Lindenhurst during the excavation of a new home in 1957.

The fossils, including various types of shells and ancient squid, are approximately 420 million years old, from a time when Lake County was an inland sea. The rock is now part of the Lake County Discovery Museum collections, and is currently on exhibit.

4 4) Most Lake County insects are yearround residents, using various tactics for survival. Many spend the winter underground in immature stages—as larvae, such as cicadas and June beetles, or pupae, such as moths. Pictured here: Cercropia moth.

5) The first woodland flowers of spring are called “ephemerals,” meaning transitory or short-lived. These plants take advantage of an abundance of sunlight on the forest floor by quickly blooming before trees unfurl their leaves. High soil moisture from snow-melt buffers against unpredictable temperature extremes of early spring—explaining why these plants grow so near the ground.

Woodland ephemerals also benefit from high levels of nutrients in the soil from autumn’s decaying leaf litter. Many ephemerals have seeds with special oil attractive to ants. Ants carry off the seeds and store them underground, thus dispersing the seeds in the surrounding environment.

6) While prairie plants die back above ground each year, plants are kept alive by extensive root systems, such as the compass plant, whose roots grow to a depth of 15 feet or more. Deep roots and underground storage structures are adaptations to the stresses of seasonal extremes and periods of drought common in summer months.

At a glance, dirt and soil may look the same, but there is a big difference. Dirt is essentially dead soil. Dirt gets under our fingernails and on our shoes. Dirt is something we want to get rid of, but we want to keep and protect the soil. Scientists consider soil a living envrionment. Soil is made of life, soil makes life, soil is life!

Invasive species affect soil health A 2014 regional tree census revealed that more than 50 percent of the leaf cover in Lake County’s open space is buckthorn. This once popular ornamental plant spreads unchecked, out-competing native plants for water and nutrients, even altering the soil chemistry to create an ecological wasteland. A recent study documented that quality forest soils provide habitat for springtail insects, while in areas with buckthorn only pill bugs are found. This indicates that buckthorn not only affects plant life but the types of soil processors.

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One of the more audacious goals identified in our Strategic Plan calls for the eradication of buckthorn from forest preserve lands and a

THE IMPORTANCE OF SOIL IN OUR EVERYDAY LIVES The most obvious importance of soil is in our very survival—it produces the food that keeps us alive. Economically, agricultural exports translate into billions of dollars in trade each year. Unhealthy soil has a direct effect on our wallet. It costs more for a farmer to produce crops on poor topsoil, and this cost is passed on as higher prices in the grocery store. The practice and further study of sustainable agricultural methods is very important to our future well-being.

We don’t often appreciate the countless ways in which human activity relies on soil. For example, trees and other plants give us the raw material for our homes and a multitude of products too numerous to list. Soil serves as engineering media, constructing foundations that support our roads and buildings. The fuel that currently supplies much of our energy comes indirectly from soil— fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas originate from organic materials, including things that at one time grew in or lived on the soil. Finally, soils preserve the artifacts of human endeavors, holding clues to past cultures yet to be revealed by archaeologists.

SOIL IS THE BASIS OF AN ECOSYSTEM We often ignore what is within the soil because it is hard to observe, but there you will find a preponderance of life. This is where plants root, animals burrow, and bacteria eat. Many animals find habitat underground, from the smallest mouse hole to a coyote’s den. Even fish are supported indirectly by soil. Fish eat plants (or eat other fish that eat plants), and these plants require dissolved minerals that are washed into the seas, rivers and lakes from the soil.

The living systems occurring above and below the ground are determined by the properties of the soil. Every soil is formed from parent material deposited on the earth’s surface. Soil is dynamic and differs from one part of the world to another--even from one part of a backyard to another. Its components—minerals, water, air, organic matter and organisms—change constantly due to biological, chemical and environmental processes such as weathering and erosion.

Soil performs critical functions for almost any ecosystem, whether a forest, prairie, marsh, or suburban watershed. They modify the atmosphere by emitting and absorbing gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor and the like. They process recycled nutrients, including carbon, so that living things can use them over and over again. They also hold, release, alter and purify most of the water in terrestrial systems, acting as a living filter to clean water before it moves to an aquifer.

50 percent reduction of buckthorn throughout Lake County over the next 25 years. This goal is not ours alone. Buckthorn is found on nearly every property in Lake County, so the effort must involve public lands, as well as private lands, individuals and businesses, government and nonprofits.

Volunteers must be mobilized and donors will be called upon to step forward.

Eradicating buckthorn in Lake County will require the concerted effort of thousands. Stay tuned for more information on how the Lake County Forest Preserves, the Preservation Foundation, partners, volunteers and private landowners will work together against buckthorn to protect human health and the natural environment that sustains us all.

See feature on pages 14–15 to learn more about invasive buckthorn.

Invasive buckthorn at Almond Marsh (Grayslake) prior to habitat restoration

Learn more about the importance of soil this year with our educational theme “Soil Sustains Life”—see the calendar on page 8 for details.

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PRESERVENEWS

YELLOW CONEFLOWER AT RAVEN GLEN (ANTIOCH) RESTORATION WORKDAYS

Every weekend morning, groups of preservation-minded volunteers gather for a few hours to help restore wildlife habitat at forest preserves across the county. Together, those volunteers make a real difference in the health and habitat of the preserves.

No experience is required, just some sturdy shoes, work gloves and a willingness to help.

Families and groups are welcome. Please RSVP so we are sure to bring enough equipment.

For locations, details and a workday schedule, see LCFPD.org/restoration.

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FIREFLIES

Standing in a field or forest clearing on a summer night, it’s obvious how fireflies got their name. Fireflies have a special organ in their abdomen that produces a chemical called luciferin. This chemical creates light when combined with oxygen and an enzyme. Males and females use their light to find each other.

Each species has a different number, length and pattern of light flashes. Typically, the males fly, while females wait in trees, shrubs and grasses. When she spots one of her own species, she’ll signal with a distinctive flash.

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COUNTRYSIDE PARTNERS WITH THE FIRST TEE

Young people will be taught life skills and golf at a new program offered in partnership with The First Tee of Greater Chicago. The program focuses on teaching the game of golf to kids ages 7–17 while learning values such as honesty, integrity, respect and perseverance, and habits that promote a healthy lifestyle. Sessions will be held at Countryside Golf Club (Mundelein). For more info or to register, visit thefirstteegreaterchicago.org.

SUMMER CAMPS

Openings are still available for day camps throughout the county: LCFPD.org/camps.

CALL FOR ENTRIES: POSTCARD ART COMPETITION & EXHIBITION

Entries for the 10th biennial Postcard Art Competition and Exhibition (PACE) are being accepted through July 15. This juried competition celebrates the postcard as an art form, challenging artists to create original works in 4-by-6-inch postcard size.

For more info visit LCFPD.org/PACE.

HIT THE TRAIL AND READ THE TALES

Reading to little ones is not just for the library anymore. A fanciful nature story called Miss Maple’s Seeds by Eliza Wheeler has been placed along trails at Ryerson Woods (Riverwoods) and Greenbelt (North Chicago). Families are encouraged to hike these trails for exercise, reading pleasure and to learn about nature.

Seven bilingual English and Spanish panels tell the story of Miss Maple, a lady who flies about, gathering wayward seeds and helping them take root and grow. The tale leaps off the page through activities suggested on each panel.

This summer your family can join our environmental educators for two group Trail Tales Trek hikes which will include interactive nature activities (see calendar on page 8 for details).

Trail Tales was jointly created by the Lake County Forest Preserves, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods and the Waukegan Public Library. The Family and Friends of Kevin W. Moore, the Lake Forest and Winnetka Garden Clubs and the Gorter Family Foundation provided funding.

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FRED FEST RETURNS FOR 2015

Fred Fest is returning to Fox River (Port Barrington) this summer on August 15. Enjoy a variety of activities for kids and families while listening to five area bands. This annual event is a fundraiser for the Preservation Foundation. Net proceeds will help restore more than 100 acres at Grassy Lake (Barrington). To see the band line-up and purchase tickets at a reduced price, visit FredFest.info.

VOLUNTEERS HONORED FOR SERVICE

On a cold Saturday morning in February, the Preservation Foundation honored the dedicated volunteers who give of their time, energy and talents to the Forest Preserves each year. More than 170 guests attended the annual Volunteer Recognition Brunch at Greenbelt Cultural Center to celebrate the thousands of volunteers who gave a stunning 44,000 hours in 2014.

Their work restoring native habitat, cleaning up the Des Plaines River, collecting native seed, and conducting environmental and cultural education and outreach programs and other activities were the equivalent of 22 full-time paid employees.

Get involved at LCFPD.org/volunteer.

GREEN YOUTH FARM MARKET RETURNS TO GREENBELT

Beginning mid-July, shop for fresh produce on Wednesdays at the Green Youth Farm market at Greenbelt Cultural Center (North Chicago). Buy tomatoes, peppers, greens, squash and other produce grown on a 1-acre sustainable farm in Greenbelt Forest Preserve. The Chicago Botanic Garden runs this youth development program in partnership with the Forest Preserves and with support from Preservation Foundation donors.

To learn more, including how you can help sponsor a Green Youth Farm crew, call 847-968-3434.

PRESERVATION SOCIETY RECOGNIZES THOSE WHO LEAVE A LEGACY FOR THE FOREST PRESERVES

The Preservation Foundation recently established the Preservation Society to honor those who have provided for the Forest Preserves through their will or estate plan. Planned gifts sow seeds of possibility, supporting everything from habitat restoration to school field trips. To learn more about planned giving options, or to let us know that you have provided for the Forest Preserves in your will or estate plan, call 847-968-3434.

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LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM TO HOST SHAKESPEARE’S FIRST FOLIO EXHIBITION

The Lake County Discovery Museum (Wauconda) has been selected as the Illinois host site for First Folio! The Book that Gave Us Shakespeare, a national traveling exhibition of the 1623 Shakespeare First Folio, one of the world’s most treasured books. Accompanying the rare book will be a multi-panel exhibition exploring the significance of Shakespeare, past and present. Exhibition to open February 2016­—for updates see LCFPD.org/Museum.

LAKE COUNTY IS ACTIVE AND HEALTHY

A public report card that grades the health of America’s counties has once again ranked Lake County among the healthiest in Illinois and the country (see countyhealthrankings.org).

We’re ranked #2 for physical activity and #4 for access to places to be active and healthy.

Learn more about what makes Lake County a great place to live at lakecountylife.org.

MEADOW JUMPING MICE

Last summer, in partnership with Lincoln Park Zoo, we released a group of meadow jumping mice into the preserves. This species was chosen for restoration because it is an important disperser of native seed within prairies. Eight mice fitted with radio collars were released within the restored grasslands of Rollins Savanna using a few different techniques.

The mice are now being tracked to find which technique is more effective in establishing an effective population.

THE FOURTH OF JULY ORCHID

Every year around the Fourth of July tall white orchids flower in spectacular fashion across the Midwest, and Lake County Forest Preserves is home to some of the largest remaining populations. Eastern prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera leucophaea) was listed as Federally Endangered in 1989. Threats to this species include habitat loss, illegal collection, and insecticide­s, because these orchids are dependent upon the rare hawk moth for pollination. Specific soil fungi are also necessary for seed germination. Ecological management where this species occurs includes controlled burns, removal of invasive species, wildlife monitoring and restoration of hydrological conditions.

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SUMMER CALENDAR Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated.

For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration visit LCFPD.org or call 847–968–3321.

For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.

JUNE Soil Sustains Life Join us as we explore the unexpected ways in which our lives are connected to soil—a fascinating and surprisingly nonrenewable resource. Learn about the sustainability of healthy soils, from the preserves to your own backyard, the amazing abundance of life that soil supports, and how the unique soil and landscapes of Lake County formed.

6 Walk with a Naturalist One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Cuba Marsh. Adults. $1 residents, $2 nonresidents. No registration required.

6 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Grant Woods—Monaville Road entrance.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

10 Cheese and Crackers with the Birds Join our rookery volunteers to watch the herons settle in for the night. Spotting scopes and binoculars available.

Wednesday, 6:30–8:30 pm, Almond Marsh.

All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. Lake County Audubon will supply refreshments.

13 Bilingual (Spanish/English) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Nippersink.

All ages. FREE. No registration required.

13 Quickstart Kayak Intro to paddling in an open-cockpit recreational kayak. We’ll cover the basics: attire, safety and paddling skills.

Saturday, 9 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, families with children 9 and older. $29 residents, $41 nonresidents.

13 Scout Saturday—Insect Study Merit Badge Spend the afternoon collecting and learning about Lake County insects as you work toward your Insect Study Merit Badge.

Saturday, 1–5 pm, Ryerson Woods­—Classroom Cabins. Ages 10–17. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.

14 Adlai E. Stevenson II Historic Home Public Tours Learn about the Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour this National Historic Landmark.

Sunday, 1–2 pm & 2:30–3:30 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson II Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

14 Kids Nature Funfest Marvelous Mud! We’ll explore the simple pleasure of playing in the mud. Join us for a fun-filled afternoon full of nature art, games, live animals and exploration. Adult supervision required.

Sunday, 2–5 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center. Families with children 12 and under. No registration required.

17 Little Sprouts: Planting a Seed Help plant the garden at Bonner and sow seeds to take home.

We’ll learn about how seeds sprout and tour the garden.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

26 Community Campfire Friday Nights Roast marshmallows with friends and family. Share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages. FREE. No registration required.

Bring a blanket or chair.

27 Walk on the Wildflower Side Uncover the secrets of wildflowers. Learn the folklore and healing powers they hold.

Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Rollins Savanna­—Washington Street entrance. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

27 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Hastings Lake.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required. No dogs permitted.

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Many plants used in preserve restoration get their start in the Native Seed Nursery at Rollins Savanna (Grayslake). Get involved at LCFPD.org/volunteer.

JUNE (continued) 29 Life in a Pond Tadpoles, fish and dragonflies call the pond home. Take a turn scooping the pond to learn about these animals and more.

Monday, 4–5 pm, Grant Woods—Monaville Road entrance. All ages. Adult supervision required. $1. No registration required.

30 Trail Tales Trek Hike with your family, making stops on the way for interactive nature activities and explorations with our Trail Tales panels.

Tuesday, 10–11 am, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Leave No Child Inside event.

JULY 1 Little Sprouts: Watching it Grow Get your hands dirty in the garden and find out what plants need to grow and thrive.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

1 Insects Around Us Explore the prairie in search of our six-legged friends.

Wednesday, 4–5 pm, McDonald Woods. All ages. $1. No registration required. Adult supervision required.

2 Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started.

Thu, 9–10 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion.

Families with children ages 5 and up. $1. No registration required. Valid IL Fishing License required for ages 16 and up.

3 Twilight Hike Explore Ryerson Woods just as dusk is falling and enjoy the natural sights and sounds as day fades to night.

Friday, 7–8 pm, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center.

All ages. Adult supervision required. $1. No registration required.

11 Bilingual (Spanish/English) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Lyons Woods.

All ages. FREE. No registration required.

11 Walk with a Naturalist One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Old School—Trails parking lot. Adults. $1 residents, $2 nonresidents. No registration required.

11, 12 24th Annual Civil War Days History comes to life at this reenactment, one of the largest in the midwest, featuring battles, period demonstrations, kids’ activities and Civil War-era shopping. Daily schedule, coupon: LCFPD.org/civilwar.

Saturday, 10 am–5 pm & Sunday, 9 am–3 pm, Lakewood. Daily: $10 adults, $5 youth (ages 4–17) & seniors (62 and up), 3 & under FREE. Weekend pass: $15, $7 youth & seniors.

15 Little Sprouts: Fresh from the Garden Pick fresh produce from the garden and make a healthful snack. Learn why fruits and veggies are so good for us.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

17 Guided Canoe for Families Enjoy an evening exploring Hastings Lake with your family in a canoe. Paddling experience preferred but not necessary.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Hastings Lake.

Adults, families with children ages 4 and up. $10 adult/$5 child residents, $14 adult/$7 child nonresidents.

18 Introduction to Canoe Learn efficient ways to tandem paddle on flatwater from American Canoe Association-certified instructors.

Saturday, 9 am–3:30 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, children ages 12 and up. $60 residents, $84 nonresidents.

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Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated.

For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration visit LCFPD.org or call 847–968–3321.

For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.

JULY (continued) 18 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Lyons Woods.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required. No dogs permitted.

19 Gospelfest This annual favorite features choirs, solo performances and praise dancers.

Sunday, 3–6 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages.

FREE. No registration required.

23 Playdate with Nature Move your kids outdoors for unstructured seasonal play activities, proven healthful and beneficial for children of all ages.

Sunday, 9:30–11 am, Heron Creek—Shelter A. Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Leave No Child Inside Event.

24 Community Campfire Friday Nights Roast marshmallows with friends and family. Share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages. FREE. No registration required.

Bring a blanket or chair.

25 Walk on the Wildflower Side Uncover the secrets of wildflowers. Learn the folklore and healing powers they hold.

Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—North Bay. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

26 Quickstart Kayak Intro to paddling in an open-cockpit recreational kayak. We’ll cover the basics: attire, safety and paddling skills.

Sunday, 9 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, families with children 9 and older. $29 residents, $41 nonresidents.

28 Hikin’ Tykes—Log Life Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration for you and your preschool child.

Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Children ages 2-4 with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 child nonresidents.

AUGUST 1 Phenology and Photography Outdoor workshop combines a staff naturalist’s insight with technical tips from a professional photographer. We’ll focus on bird photography, including a photo op with our live education raptors.

Saturday, 6–9 am, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center. Adults, youth ages 16 and up. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.

1 Walk with a Naturalist One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Operations & Public Safety Facility. Adults. $1 residents, $2 nonresidents. No registration required.

2 Flatwater Kayak Rescue Skills Expect to get wet in this program. Learn safety and rescue techniques from a certified kayak instructor.

Sunday, 9:30 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, families with children ages 12 and up. $25 residents, $34 nonresidents.

5 Little Sprouts: Eggcellent Adventures We’ll take a closer look at the inside of an egg and the cute creatures that hatch out.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

7 Community Campfire Friday Nights Roast marshmallows with friends and family. Share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Ryerson Woods—Classroom Cabins.

All ages. FREE. No registration required.

Bring a blanket or chair.

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Join the Skokie Valley Astronomers at Ryerson Woods on select Fridays. Learn about topics in astronomy and stargaze with members’ telescopes, weather permitting. For dates and topics, visit LCFPD.org/astronomy.

AUGUST (continued) 8 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required. No dogs permitted.

9 Flatwater Canoe Rescue Skills Expect to get wet in this program. Learn safety and rescue techniques from a certified canoe instructor.

Sunday, 9:30 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, families with children ages 12 and up. $25 residents, $34 nonresidents.

11 Hikin’ Tykes—Pond Life Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration for you and your preschool child.

Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Wright Woods.

Children ages 2-4 with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 child nonresidents.

15 Bilingual (Spanish/English) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages. FREE. No registration required.

15 Quickstart Kayak Intro to paddling in an open-cockpit recreational kayak. We’ll cover the basics: attire, safety and paddling skills.

Saturday, 9 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, families with children 9 and older. $29 residents, $41 nonresidents.

15 Fred Fest Fred Fest is an all-day music festival featuring local bands and activities for the whole family. This annual fundraiser benefits the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

Saturday, 1–8 pm, Fox River. For more information, or to purchase tickets visit fredfest2015.ticketleap.com.

16 Woodpecker Walk Learn about the different species of woodpeckers that call Lake County home, then join us on a hike to find them.

Sunday, 8:30–10 am, Fort Sheridan.

Adults, families with children 6 and up. $6 residents, $8 nonresidents.

19 Little Sprouts: Mooing and Milking Learn to milk using our model cow, find out how milk is turned into delicious dairy products, and churn your own butter.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

20 Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started.

Thu, 9–10 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion. Families with children ages 5 and up. $1. No registration required. Valid IL Fishing License required ages 16 and up.

23 Adlai E. Stevenson II Historic Home Public Tours Learn about the Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour this National Historic Landmark.

Sunday, 1–2 pm & 2:30–3:30 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson II Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

29 Walk on the Wildflower Side Uncover the secrets of wildflowers. Learn the folklore and healing powers they hold.

Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Old School—Trails Lot. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

29 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Lakewood­—Winter Sports Area Lot. All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

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Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated.

For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration visit LCFPD.org or call 847–968–3321.

For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.

AUGUST (continued)

LAST BLAST OF SUMMER

Summer is winding down and the start of the school year is just ahead. Celebrate the end of the season—join us for summer’s last blast with four funfilled drop-in programs before heading back to the classroom.

Activities for all ages.

SUMMER CONCERTS EVENTS IN THE PLAZA

MON 17 Life in a Pond Tadpoles, fish and dragonflies call the pond home. Take a turn scooping the pond to learn about these animals and more.

TUE 18 Trail Tales Trek Hike with your family, making stops on the way for interactive nature activities and explorations with our Trail Tales panels.

4–5 pm, Wright Woods. Follow the signs. All ages. Adult supervision required. $1. No registration required.

10–11 am, Ryerson Woods—Brushwood.

Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Leave No Child Inside event.

TUE 18 Playing in the Past Play with toys and learn games that have entertained children for centuries while exploring the Museum’s newest exhibit, Growing Up in Lake County.

1–2 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum.

All ages. FREE with Museum admission.

Registration not required.

teen. They have received accolades such as “Band of the Year” at the 2013 New England Music Awards.

Independence Grove, Libertyville

June 30 The Flat Cats

Bring lawn chairs and blankets for these outdoor musical performances, beginning at 7:30 pm . Arrive early to secure your spot; cars are turned away when parking is full. Parking is $6 per car after 5 pm on event days. There are no rain dates.

This group was so popular last year we had to invite them back. Six talented musicians play a range of vintage and modern music rooted in the hottest swinging jazz and blues, contemporary classics and timeless standards.

June 16 The Dang-Its

The big sound and high-energy of RockStar Rodeo will have you up and dancing. Covering artists such as Brantley Gilbert, Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean and many more. Take the best of Austin, the fun from Nashville and the boogie from the South, add the hottest modern, pop, country and rock hits and you’ll know just what to expect at this rodeo party.

Enjoy a mix of classics, standards, contemporary and original songs from American-roots musical styles.

Bluegrass, country, western swing, honky-tonk, folk, rockabilly and more performed with outstanding vocals and a variety of instruments. Come out and see what made their “A Lick of Sense” album the 2014 country/bluegrass album of the year at the Madison Area Music Awards.

June 23 The Adam Ezra Group This Boston band has gained nationwide momentum after their “Ragtop Angel” album shot up the charts at Amazon and was featured on iTunes. Live passionate performances have been compared to those of Bruce Springs-

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July 7 RockStar Rodeo

July 14 The Cavern Beat This foursome brings to life the magic, authentic look and the sound of the Beatles, performing the music as it was originally crafted, using only guitars, drums and true vocals. Arrive early for a good seat—this show was very well attended in 2014.

FRI 21 Twilight Hike Explore Rollins Savanna just as dusk is falling and enjoy the natural sights and sounds as day fades to night.

6:30–7:30 pm, Rollins Savanna—Drury Lane lot. All ages. Adult supervision required. $1. No registration required.

July 21 John Primer “The Real Deal” Chicago blues man brings to the stage his signature electric slide guitar, soulful R&B vocals and the influence of blues legends, including Muddy Waters, Junior Wells, Willie Dixon and Magic Slim. In June he’s performing at the Chicago Blues Festival and headlining at Buddy Guy’s Legends—in July he comes to Lake County.

How lucky can we get?

July 28 Rico Always a favorite­—Rico’s hypnotic blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms is influenced by the sound and spirit of Santana. Rico creates a fiery soulful sound through bass, congas, percussion, drums, timbales, keyboards, guitar and pure passion.

August 4 R-Gang Come out for one of the best Motownera, R&B, funk and soul dance bands in the Chicago area. With a song list that includes music by The Temptations, Michael Jackson, Sam Cooke, Elvis, Prince and more, this concert is guaranteed to make Millennium Plaza a rockin’, movin’, soulful experience.

SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS

Through September 27, 2015

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Yards: Sports Photography of Walter Payton Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Bears Superbowl victory with photography by some of the nation’s top sports photographers, featuring some of the best images of Payton on and off the field.

Lake County Discovery Museum

June 28–August 9

Earthlings, The artwork of Margie Glass Sula In Earthlings, artist Margie Glass Sula will exhibit a collection of unique interpretations of common plant and animal forms, inviting renewed curiosity and contemplation about the natural world and its inhabitants. The works explore form and transition, while reinforcing the innate link and wonder of nature that often dissipates as human life progresses and fills itself with modern complexities.

Artist Reception Sunday, June 28, 1–3 pm Brushwood

Through July 10, 2016 Growing Up in Lake County: Exploring History through the Stories of Children Have you ever wondered what life was like for children in the past? Growing Up in Lake County shares the everyday and extraordinary stories of children who grew up in the county.

Try your hand at living and working on a pioneer homestead.

Discover what life was like for a young drummer boy in the Civil War. Learn about the first African-American family to settle in the county. Attend school in a one-room schoolhouse and play as children did over 100 years ago.

Through real artifacts, historical accounts and hands-on experiences, children connect the stories of the past to their own lives in this new interactive exhibition for families.

Lake County Discovery Museum

August 16–November 1

Regeneration: The Nature of Transformation In 1942, the builders of Brushwood (home of Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods) constructed the Ryerson family’s summer home using materials salvaged from demolished buildings. Through this purposeful act of reuse, the builders transformed discarded materials­—bricks, floorboards, windows, mantels, and stoves—into something new, a process that reflects regeneration in nature. This exhibition brings together the work of artists and designers who explore the concept of regeneration­—material, biological, and spiritual—with a focus on furniture, lighting, and artwork created from reclaimed materials. See how these acts of transformation connect art objects with house, grounds and nature. Curated by WM FitzPatrick and Franck Mercurio.

Artist Reception Sunday, August 16, 1–3 pm Brushwood

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Special Feature

ERADICATING BUCKTHORN

Eradicating buckthorn is one of the key conservation goals identified in our recent Strategic Plan process. Specifically, we aim to eradicate buckthorn through restoration and management, and reduce buckthorn by 50 percent in Lake County through partnership and outreach.

ABOVE: ALMOND MARSH (GRAYSLAKE) BEFORE AND AFTER BUCKTHORN REMOVAL

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Buckthorn is a small tree that is invasive in Illinois. Invasive species are plants and animals that spread aggressively. These are often non-native species that overtake habitats, reducing biological diversity and causing ecological damage to our native communities.

This happens because natural enemies such as predators, disease or competitors that control these species are left behind in native lands. Invasive species threaten the health of natural areas and have a negative effect on our commercial and agricultural activities that are dependent on healthy ecosystems.

No harm was meant, but more than 150 years of settlement has greatly changed local habitat. As early as 1849, buckthorn was introduced to Lake County for screening areas where space was too limited for larger trees. Over time it has negatively affected our native communities.

Thick stands of buckthorn grow leaves early in spring and retain leaves late into the fall, creating dense, dark areas that block sunlight from reaching the ground, eliminating regeneration of other tree and understory species. Buckthorn also produces a chemical in the soil that makes it hard for many other plants to grow. Falling buckthorn fruits create an abundance of seedlings. Birds eat the fruit, spreading the problem even further. The latin name for common buckthorn, Rhamnus cathartica, derives from the cathartic or laxative properties of the fruit—birds expel them quickly, improving regeneration. All of this contributes to the invasive spread of buckthorn, which creates a domino effect on native shrubs and wildflowers, songbirds, butterflies and other species, and threatens the future of our natural habitats.

BUCKTHORN IDENTIFICATION Summer and fall are great times to identify buckthorn and mark them for winter removal when the ground is frozen and desired species in the soil are protected from disturbance. You can help combat this invasive species by removing it from your own yard, spreading the word to others and joining us at a restoration workday (visit LCFPD.org/workdays to get involved). Check the upcoming winter issue of Horizons for info on how to remove buckthorn, and suggestions for native species to plant in its place.

BUCKTHORN IS A LARGE SHRUB OR SMALL TREE THAT CAN GROW TO HEIGHTS OF OVER 30 FEET. TWO SPECIES ARE FOUND IN LAKE COUNTY: COMMON OR EUROPEAN BUCKTHORN (Rhamnus cathartica) AND GLOSSY BUCKTHORN (Frangula alnus). BUCKTHORN GETS ITS NAME FROM ITS SPINY BRANCHES­WHOSE BUDS RESEMBLE A BUCK’S HOOF.

BUCKTHORN’S OVAL, SHINY LEAVES HAVE PROMINENT VEINS AND A SLIGHT CURVING TIP. ONE TO 4-INCH LEAVES GROW IN AN ALTERNATE (SOMETIMES OPPOSITE) PATTERN. INCONSPICUOUS PALE GREENISH-YELLOW TO WHITE FLOWERS OCCUR IN CLUSTERS JULY–SEPTEMBER.

GLOSSY BUCKTHORN BARK IS GRAY-BROWN WITH WHITE PORES VISIBLE ON THE SMALLER BRANCHES. THE INNER BARK ON COMMON BUCKTHORN IS ORANGE (EASILY SEEN WHEN CUT).

SMALL (0.25 INCH) ROUND FRUIT APPEARS JULY–SEPTEMBER AND RIPENS FROM RED TO BLACK. BIRDS AND OTHER WILDLIFE EAT THE FRUIT AND DISPERSE THE SEEDS.

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SPECIAL FACILITIES Directory GENERAL OFFICES

OPERATIONS AND PUBLIC SAFETY

1899 West Winchester Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048

19808 West Grand Avenue Lake Villa, Illinois 60046

847-367-6640 tel 847-367-6649 fax 847-968-3155 TDD

847-968-3411 tel (Operations) 847-968-3244 tel (Public Safety) 847-968-3116 fax

8 am –4:30 pm, Monday–Friday

6:30 am –3 pm, Monday–Friday

911 emergency 847–549–5200 nonemergency public safety issues

OUTDOOR RECREATION

EDUCATION & CULTURE

GOLF

LCFPD.org

INDEPENDENCE GROVE

RYERSON CONSERVATION AREA

THUNDERHAWK GOLF CLUB

16400 West Buckley Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048

21950 North Riverwoods Road Riverwoods, Illinois 60015

A Robert Trent Jones Jr. championship golf course

847–968–3499 Main 847–247–1111 Banquets, Meetings

847–968–3320 LCFPD.org/Ryerson

39700 North Lewis Avenue Beach Park, Illinois 60099

IndependenceGrove.org Visitors Center Hours 9 AM–4:30 PM, unless otherwise posted For beach, marina and café seasonal hours and fees visit our website.

Parking Fee Lake County residents FREE Nonresidents $5 per car Monday–Thursday $10 per car Friday–Sunday and holidays

Welcome Center Hours 9 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Saturday 11 AM–4 PM, Sundays Restroom only, Mondays Brushwood Center Hours 9 AM–3 PM, Monday–Thursday 1–3 PM Sundays, or by appointment LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM Lake County History Archives Curt Teich Postcard Archives

847–968–3100 847–968–3441 847–489–1931 847–968–3450

Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets

ThunderHawkGolfClub.org COUNTRYSIDE GOLF CLUB Prairie & Traditional Courses 20800 West Hawley Street Mundelein, Illinois 60060 847–968–3100 Tee Times 847–968–3441 Golf Gift Cards 847–489–1931 Golf Outings

Vehicle window stickers allow entry without stopping to verify residency. Fee is $5, available at the Visitors Center.

27277 North Forest Preserve Road Wauconda, Illinois 60084 847–968–3400 Main 847–968–3381 Archives, Research

BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB

FOX RIVER MARINA

LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum.org

33600 North US Highway 45 Grayslake, Illinois 60030

28500 West Roberts Road Port Barrington, Illinois 60010 847–381–0669 FoxRiverMarina.org Boat Launch & Marina Hours 7 AM–sunset, daily, in season

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Museum Gallery Hours 10 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Saturday 1–4:30 PM, Sunday Adults $6, Youth 4–17 $2.50, 3 years and under FREE 62 and up $3 daily, FREE in January Discount Tuesdays: Adults $3, Youth 17 and under FREE GREENBELT CULTURAL CENTER 1215 Green Bay Road North Chicago, Illinois 60064 847–968–3477 GreenbeltCulturalCenter.org Gallery & Office Hours 11 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Friday

CountrysideGolfClub.org

847–968–3100 847–968–3441 847–489–1931 847–247–1119

Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets

BraeLochGolfClub.org

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES FOREST PRESERVE Entrance/Parking

More than 30,200 acres make up your Lake County Forest Preserves.

Most preserves are open 6:30 AM –sunset, daily.

MAP CURRENT AS OF

Friday, April, 10 2015

FOREST PRESERVE EASEMENTS STATE LAND (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources) CANOE LAUNCH

LCFPD.ORG DES PLAINES RIVER TRAIL Planned section M CCLORY TRAIL / NORTH SHORE PATH

MILLENNIUM TRAIL Planned section GRAND ILLINOIS TRAIL Planned (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources)

(L.C.Division of Transportation)

MIDDLEFORK GREENWAY Planned section

FORT HILL TRAIL Planned (L.C. Division of Transportation)

DOG AREA COMMUNITY GARDEN GENERAL OFFICES OPERATIONS FACILITY

PRAIRIE CROSSING TRAIL (L.C.Division of Transportation)

CASEY TRAIL Planned section

CHAIN O’ LAKES BIKE PATH Planned section

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES GENERAL OFFICES 1899 WEST WINCHESTER ROAD LIBERTYVILLE ILLINOIS 60048

PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY—

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TIME- SENSITIVE MATERIAL

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THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED USING 100% RECYCLED PAPER, ALLOWING US TO SAVE 65 MATURE TREES, 21,136 LBS GREENHOUSE GASES, 6,435 LBS SOLID WASTE

Help the Annual Fund Meet its Goal

Green youth farm

Every day, people across Lake County choose to do more for the forest preserves they love. Gifts to the Annual Fund support projects and programs that otherwise could not happen. In 2014, these extra dollars provided volunteers with restoration tools and prescribed burn equipment. They helped care for the historic collections of the Lake County History Archives, and gave North Chicago and Waukegan youth their first paid job and training in growing, eating and preparing healthful food.

Help the Annual Fund meet its $65,000 goal for this fiscal year by donating any amount by June 30. Visit LCFPD.org/donate or call 847-968-3434.

Eat healthy and support local youth when you shop at the Green Youth Farm of Lake County. Purchase nutritious and sustainably grown vegetables, herbs, honey and more, grown in Greenbelt Forest Preserve by area students. See page 6 for details.

CIVIL WAR DAYS History comes to life at the 24th annual Civil War Days reenactment, featuring battles, demos, kids’ activities and Civil War-era shopping. See page 9 for details or visit LCFPD.org/civilwar.

◄ INSTAGRAM PICK Our education owl posing for our first Instagram photo. Follow us on Instagram, or tag us in your nature photos @LCFPD. Connect with us! For up-to-the-minute forest preserve news and events: Find us on Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, or YouTube @LCFPD. Download our mobile app in the Apple App Store or Android Play Store—search for “Lake County Forest Preserves.”