Horizons quarterly // winter 2013

HORI Z ON S LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

PRESERVATION, RESTOR ATION , EDUCATION AN D RECRE ATION

QUARTERLY

winter 2013 VOLUME 23, ISSUE 1

2

5 more than

15

6 30,000 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

This coming year marks the 100th anniversary of the extinction of the passenger pigeon, bringing an opportunity for us to explore the connections between humans and the natural world, consider current issues related to human-caused extinction, and inspire people to become more involved in building a sustainable relationship with our world.

Our lives are so busy these days that it’s hard at times to imagine planning even a week in advance. It can take some effort to think months, years or decades ahead, but I’ve been wondering if the passenger pigeon story could have turned out differently had folks over a century ago thought that way. We will never know, but we can certainly take the lessons learned from that story and apply them today.

Many of our efforts are great examples of planning for the future. Of course, being the stewards of more than 30,000 acres of open space is a great thing for everyone in Lake County—it helps protect the health of our waterways, secures abundant habitat for many species (including some found nowhere else in Illinois), and provides safe places for people to recreate and revitalize. But this is just the start.

Every year, staff and volunteers work countless hours restoring ecosystem health in the preserves, covering new ground, and revisiting areas where work has previously occurred in an effort to maintain or continue to improve its condition.

This is our commitment for the future. We understand, for example, that we can’t put resources into a wetlands project and walk away once the initial work is done.

We need to monitor our work, sometimes with research that will last for decades, to see where improvements can be made and how the land responds.

When you read the feature story of this issue, I encourage you to pay particular attention to the conservation projects we are working on today in order to protect the land and the plant and animal species that lived here long before settlement.

In some cases it goes beyond protecting to actually reintroducing species that haven’t been seen in Lake County for many decades.

An original exhibition exploring the story of the passenger pigeon is open at the Lake County Discovery Museum through February 2 (see page 13 for details). I encourage you to check it out, then explore the winter beauty at Lakewood.

Education staff will also be offering programs that focus on endangered species this year, so you can learn about the legacy of our home and how we can work to keep a long view when we look at our ecosystem health.

TREASURER

S. Michael Rummel, Lake Forest ASSISTANT TREASURER

Audrey H. Nixon, North Chicago Carol Calabresa, Libertyville Pat Carey, Grayslake 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 Diana O’Kelly, Mundelein Brent Paxton, Zion Nick Sauer, Lake Barrington David B. Stolman, Buffalo Grove Craig Taylor, Lake Zurich Tom Weber, Lake Villa Terry Wilke, Round Lake Beach EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ty Kovach

HORIZONS VOLUME 23, ISSUE 1

Winter 2013

EDITOR

Kara Martin kmartin@LCFPD.org CONTRIBUTING

Allison Frederick, Rebekah Snyder

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES HOTLINE: 847–968–3335

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.

The Guinness Book of World Records contains many entries for North America’s plants and animals. Among these: the world’s tallest and largest trees—giant redwood and sequoia growing in protected California forests; the world’s oldest tree—a 5,000-year-old bristle cone pine, clinging to a wind-swept Sierra Nevada mountaintop; and the largest animal to ever live on Earth—the blue whale, which can be seen plying the waters of our eastern shoreline.

Conspicuously missing from the record book is North America’s passenger pigeon, once the most abundant bird on Earth. The passenger pigeon was a member of the dove family, closely related to the American pigeon.

Prior to European settlement, an estimated 5 billion passenger pigeons lived in massive flocks throughout central and eastern North America, including here in Lake County. Their sheer number astounded observers

who witnessed flocks passing overhead for days. This abundance led to indiscriminate sport and market hunting. Millions of birds were shot, and by the middle of the 18th century, conservationists warned that continued hunting would lead to extinction. Warnings went unheeded, and the world’s last passenger pigeon died in the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914.

The year 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the death of Earth’s last passenger pigeon—a bird whose population seemed 2014 marks the inexhaustible to an 100th anniversary of emerging country, yet vanished from Earth the death of Earth’s within decades. last passenger pigeon.

Though a century has passed, it remains a poignant example of nature’s abundance, as well as a powerful reminder of humanity’s ability to exhaust seemingly endless resources. The echoes of the passenger pigeon’s life still resonate today and can teach us lessons of stewardship, hope and sustainable living for the 21st century.

INSET 19th century illustration of hunters shooting a dense population of passenger pigeons.

PROTECTING OUR ENDANGERED SPECIES Acquiring land is the first step—today your forest preserves include more than 30,000 acres of habitat. The second step is monitoring. Every year we check up on endangered species, making note of any progress or problems. We also monitor the species designated as “threatened” and “of conservation concern”—those most likely to become endangered.

Perhaps most importantly, we manage these habitats. We safely bring back fire through controlled burns. We remove non-native plant species and manage deer populations. By caring for a variety of habitats, we give endangered species their best chance of recovery.

The land has an amazing ability to heal itself. Often, dormant seed beds will reawaken once a site’s natural sun, soil and water conditions have been restored. Many animals will return on their own, too. But sometimes especially scarce species need extra help, provided through enhancement of the natural setting, captive breeding or manual reintroduction.

LAST OF HER KIND The last known passenger pigeon, named “Martha,” died of old age at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914.

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES 3

SPECIES OF CONCE IN ILLINOIS RN

Like many grassland dependent species, habitat decline has greatly affected the bobolink. While considered having a secure conservation status globally and widespread in Illinois, their long-term fate is of concern as prairie and grassland areas are declining across

BOBOLINK

(Dolichonyx oryzivorus) Bobolinks are medium-sized songbirds found in prairies and open grasslands. Females are light brown with dark streaks, while males are black with white streaks and a distinctive yellow patch on the head. Their nests are built on the ground, which makes them susceptible to mowing and other human activities.

They are extraordinary migrants, traveling from their summer breeding grounds in the northern United States and southern Canada to south of the equator every autumn, for a round-trip of over 12,000 miles.

(Opheodrys vernalis) The smooth green snake occupies a wide range of habitats throughout North America. They depend on moist, grassy areas such as prairies, marshes or near lakes.

These slender snakes can reach two feet in maturity, and spend most of their time in tall grasses, using emerald green camouflage to hide from predators. Smooth green snakes lack venom, relying instead on quick strikes when catching prey such as caterpillars, grasshoppers,

Savanna (Grayslake) and Waukegan

beetles and spiders. Usually solitary, these snakes will hibernate together in abandoned burrows made by

Savanna (Wadsworth) make these

rodents, or even in anthills.

the Midwest. To maintain populations, it is vital to protect these habitats across the region. Restoration efforts at Rollins

great sites to spot bobolinks and during the summer months.

Due to habitat loss, smooth green snake numbers have been declining in northern Illinois. We have purchased and restored a significant amount of land containing suitable habitat.

Despite this, recent monitoring indicated that remaining populations were small and not likely viable in the long-term. The smooth green snake population is recovering with a head-starting program conducted in partnership with the Lincoln Park Zoo. Juvenile snakes raised in the zoo have been released in temporary enclosures or directly into the preserves and monitored to determine the best method for reintroduction.

In 2004, a study conducted by Chicago Wilderness documented only one population of Blanding’s turtle within your Lake County Forest Preserves. Since then, our wildlife biologists have discovered isolated populations at five additional preserves. Recovery strategies have been initiated to stabilize local populations, including a headstarting program and continued monitoring via radio-telemetry.

Since 2009, over 500 turtles have been released, and

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SMOOTH GREEN SNAKE

BLANDING’S TURTLE

(Emydoidea blandingii) Blanding’s turtle is a mediumsized, semi-aquatic turtle distinguished by its bright yellow chin and throat and mottled shell. These turtles are long-lived, with accounts of individuals living up to 70 years. Considered an environmental indicator, they are very sensitive to the quality of their surroundings.

Therefore, the health of the environment reflects the health of the species.

Historically common in northern Illinois, they now remain in only a few isolated wetlands and were designated as endangered in 2009. Their population continues to decline due to habitat loss and degradation, automobiles and illegal collection for the pet trade.

HOW CAN I HELP? DONATE See pages 14–15 to learn more about our charitable partner, the

ongoing monitoring shows

Preservation Foundation.

that a significant proportion

VOLUNTEER Attend our Volunteer

of those released are

Open House this January—see page 9

surviving in the wild.

for details, or visit LCFPD.

RIVER OTTER

(Lontra canadensis) At 35–53 inches from nose to tail, the river otter is Illinois’ largest member of the weasel family. They thrive in ponds, rivers, and lakes, making tunneling homes near the water’s edge.

Their fur, webbed feet and powerful tails are a few of the adaptations that allow river otters to move easily through water. On land they can run almost as well as they can swim, bounding through grass.

River otters were once common in Illinois, prior to European settlement.

Unregulated trapping

and habitat loss caused their numbers to decline during the mid-1800s, and sightings were rare by the early 1900s. As the top predator in this food chain, these otters are very sensitive to water pollution, and are considered indicators of water cleanliness.

Pollutants make their way up the food chain to otters, increasing in concentration as they go. These pollutants make the otter unhealthy and can lead to reproduction problems, which undermines the sustainability of the population.

EASTERN PRAIRIE FRINGED ORCHID

(Platanthera leucophaea) The eastern prairie fringed orchid is a perennial plant that grows in wet prairies. A flower spike of five to 50 creamy white flowers appears from late June to early July, often rising just above the height of the surrounding grasses and sedges. In order for seeds to become established, a symbiotic relationship between the seed and mycorrhizae (soil fungi) is necessary. The fungi helps the seeds absorb nutrients in the soil.

This orchid has been in decline due to habitat loss, invasive species, and the use of pesticides, which caused a decline in their most efficient pollinator—the bedstraw hawkmoth. With a long tongue, just the right eye spacing, and powerful flight muscles, the hawkmoth is the only species that can obtain the sweet nectar from the eastern prairie fringed orchid, which has the longest nectar spur of any North American orchid.

RED E G N ENDA LINOIS IN IL

Conserving wetlands and wooded areas along streams and rivers are top priorities to protect the river otter.

Reducing soil erosion and preventing fertilizers and pesticides from washing into streams are important measures, even where otters aren’t likely to visit.

For example, soil particles washed into a stream can settle when they reach slow-moving water, covering the rock, sand and gravel that some fish need to lay their eggs and raise young. Fewer fish means less food for otters.

In cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, we are one of the many organizations involved in a study of the eastern prairie fringed orchid.

Biologists and volunteers are handpollinating the plants, and collecting and planting seeds in different locations in hopes that other forest preserve land can support their growth. This hand-pollination has been tremendously successful, and one Lake County preserve is now home to a viable population of these orchids.

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PRESERVENEWS

PRESERVE IMPROVEMENTS FOURTH LAKE

HASTINGS LAKE

Work is complete on the new Grand Avenue underpass and 1.5-mile gravel section of the Millennium Trail at Fourth Lake (Lake Villa). The trail now extends from just north of Rollins Road to Sand Lake Road where it connects to existing trails at Bonner Farm and McDonald Woods (Lindenhurst). Improvements at Fourth Lake also include a 0.3-mile grass loop with overlook.

Trailhead parking is available at our Operations Facility on north side of Grand Avenue west of Route 45.

Explore parts of Hastings Lake (Lake Villa) you’ve never seen. Four miles of paved and gravel trails are scheduled to open soon—check LCFPD.org/HastingsLake for details. Other improvements include boardwalks, overlooks, playground, toilets, two wheelchair accessible fishing piers, a launch for car-top boats, a reservable picnic shelter, two family-sized shelters, and two separate preserve entrances with parking and trail access at Gelden Road and at Munn Road.

MARL FLAT AND THE MILLENNIUM TRAIL

SEDGE MEADOW

A new 1-mile paved section of the Millennium Trail extending from Route 120 north to Marl Flat (Round Lake) is complete. The entrance is located off of Fish Lake Road, north of Route 120 and south of Nippersink Road, and includes trailhead parking for the Millennium Trail, toilets, benches and an information kiosk. With the completion of this section, a continuous 15 miles of trail is now open from Hawley Street through Lakewood (Mundelein) and Singing Hills (Volo) to Marl Flat.

A new paved parking area with spots for horse and snowmobile trailers, toilets and a short section of trail is scheduled to open soon at Sedge Meadow (Wadsworth)— check LCFPD.org for details. The preserve’s main entrance is on the south side of Wadsworth Road, east of Route 41 and west of the Des Plaines River Trail. A separate canoe launch entrance and parking area is located just east of the preserve’s main entrance. You can access the Des Plaines River Trail from either entrance.

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ADOPT AN ACRE OF YOUR FAVORITE FOREST PRESERVE

Do you have a favorite forest preserve? Which trail do you walk, bike, run or hike every weekend? The Preservation Foundation’s Adopt-an-Acre program allows you to sponsor a mile of your favorite forest preserve.

Your tax-deductible $100 gift supports long-term maintenance of the preserve or trail that you enjoy and visit frequently. All Adopt-an-Acre gifts are acknowledged with a personalized certificate, making a wonderful holiday gift in honor of a loved one. To learn more, contact Rebekah Snyder at rsnyder@LCFPD.org or 847-968-3434.

W IN T E R 2 01 3

PRESERVE MAPS

WINTER CONSERVATION

Printer-friendly trail maps are available online at LCFPD.org/maps.

Our dedicated conservation volunteers work year-round to improve the preserves. Restoration workdays happen every weekend at forest preserve locations throughout the county.

No prior experience is necessary; all ages are invited.

Winter restoration activities primarily consist of buckthorn control. This is also when we process seed collected in fall to prepare for planting in spring. Indoor seed processing happens at the Native Seed Nursery (Grayslake). For details, dates and locations, visit LCFPD.org/volunteer.

WOODLAND HABITAT RESTORATION PROJECT

ON THE COVER: LEAST WEASEL

The least weasel (Mustela nivalis) is the smallest living carnivore in Illinois. The summer coat is reddish-brown with a white belly. Weasels begin shedding their summer coats during early fall, replacing them with coats that are lighter in color (as seen on this issue’s cover). Here in northern Illinois, their winter coat is nearly all white, allowing them to blend in with a snowy background and avoid detection by predators like hawks and owls. These weasels molt again in the spring, replacing winter coats with darker summer colors. Our wildlife biologists are currently assessing the conservation status of least weasels in Lake County.

The wooded habitat along the Des Plaines River in southern Lake County is changing. Last winter, we completed 194 acres of canopy and understory thinning in woodland communities at MacArthur Woods and Grainger Woods forest preserves (Mettawa). This winter, woodland habitat restoration will begin at a section of Wright Woods (Mettawa) adjacent to Elm Road and at Ryerson Woods (Riverwoods), in addition to continuing at MacArthur Woods.

The restoration and species monitoring that will continue for the next 20 years will help ensure the sustainability of oak woodlands and the wildlife they support for many generations to come.

For more information, visit us online at LCFPD.org/woodlands.

VOLUNTEER AT THE FOREST PRESERVES

Volunteers are needed to assist with a variety of jobs, both indoors and outdoors, at forest preserves and special facilities throughout Lake County. No experience is required, just a willingness to help. Attend our Volunteer Open House this January (see calendar on page 9 for details), browse available opportunities online at LCFPD.org/volunteer or call 847-968-3324.

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRES E RVES

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HOLIDAY TREE RECYCLING

IDEA EXCHANGE—OUR VIRTUAL TOWN HALL

Donate your holiday tree to us and we’ll recycle it into wood chips for trails and landscaping at forest preserves throughout Lake County. Drop-off spots are located at Greenbelt, Half Day, Old School, Ryerson Woods, Lakewood and Van Patten Woods.

Idea Exchange is a convenient place to let us know what is best for you and your family as we create new preserves, expand trails systems, improve facilities, design museum exhibits and develop educational and cultural programs and events. Take surveys, view project plans, give feedback, share creative ideas, and support, or disagree with, the ideas of others. Join the conversation online at LCFPD.org/IdeaExchange.

BRUSHWOOD CENTER AT RYERSON WOODS

INDEPENDENCE GROVE DOG EXERCISE AREA

The Independence Grove Dog Exercise Area is anticipated to reopen this winter, following a temporary closure during the Illinois Department of Transportation’s reconstruction of Route 21’s northbound lanes.

Our maintenance crews took advantage of the Dog Area closure to improve trail and path areas, clear brush and conduct tree maintenance. For an exact opening date, subscribe to Dog Area alerts at LCFPD.org/dognews.

ROUTE 21 TRAIL UNDERPASS

Construction is nearing completion on a new trail underpass at Casey Road and Route 21. The underpass links Libertyville Township’s Casey Trail and Greenway to the Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway and Independence Grove (Libertyville) on the east side of Route 21. New sidewalks are being added along Route 21 and Route 137, providing access to Independence Grove. These improvements are part of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s intersection and road widening project along Route 21 and Route 137 in Libertyville. Check LCFPD.org for updates.

8 HORI ZONS QUARTERLY WIN T E R 2 01 3

Friends of Ryerson Woods will now be known as Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods. Brushwood Center focuses on nurturing art, nature and discovery, and in 2014, celebrates the 30th anniversary of offering quality environmental education to the public. The new name paves the way for the future, better reflecting the mission of the center as an independent nonprofit organization operating on site at Ryerson Woods (Riverwoods).

Brushwood Center’s administrative offices, program rooms and gallery space are housed in the historic Brushwood home at Ryerson Woods—formerly the Ryerson family summer home. The community can look forward to more art exhibitions, art workshops, book discussions, film screenings, nature talks and much more. For upcoming program information, visit brushwoodcenter.0rg.

FREE SENIOR MUSEUM ADMISSION

Senior admission to the Lake County Discovery Museum (Wauconda) is free for the entire month of January. Daily admission for seniors (62 and up) is just $3 all other months. This January features Beguiled by the Wild: The Art of Charley Harper, and The Passenger Pigeon’s Flight to Extinction. See page 13 for exhibition details.

WINTER SPORTS CONDITIONS

Need to know snow depth, ice conditions or hours and locations of sled hills or ski trails? Look online at LCFPD.org or call our 24-hour automated hotline at 847-968-3235 for updated info.

2014 ANNUAL PERMITS Annual permits for dog parks, horse trails and more go on sale December 2. Find permit information and purchase online at LCFPD.org/permits, or by phone: 847-367-6640.

NEW INTERPRETIVE PANELS

Ten trailside interpretive panels are coming soon to Rollins Savanna (Grayslake), highlighting the site’s history, restoration efforts and unique features. From our Native Seed Nursery to the natural resource techniques used to improve habitat for grassland-dependent species, visitors can learn more about this popular preserve. One panel even highlights artwork by Nandu Dubey (above), a neighbor of Rollins Savanna. Nandu is a local artist and birder that has frequented this site since his early childhood.

ARNOLD NEWMAN PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION

Opening at the Lake County Discovery Museum March 2014 Arnold Newman: Luminaries of the Twentieth Century in Art, Politics and Culture is a national touring exhibition of the innovative minds and personalities that defined a century as seen through the eyes of one of its own: Arnold Newman. Recognized as the “father of environmental portraiture,” his work is collected and exhibited in major museums and collections around the world.

With a career spanning 60 years, his body of work reads as a roll call of the biggest names of the twentieth century such as: Pablo Picasso, Piet Mondrian, Marcel Duchamp, Igor Stravinsky, Jackson Pollock, Salvador Dali, Alexander Calder, Ayn Rand, Langston Hughes, Martha Graham, Leonard Bernstein, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, John F. Kennedy, Philip Glass, and Woody Allen—a portrait of a ground-breaking era from one of its own.

LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRES E RVES

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WINTER 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.

DECEMBER

Impromptu Program Announcements

Find us on Facebook or Twitter to receive notice of special impromptu programs such as moonlight skiing and snowshoe hikes.

facebook.com/LCFPD | twitter.com/LCFPD |

Subscribe to our e-news: LCFPD.org/signup

3 Natural Holiday Decorations Create beautiful holiday decorations using items from the outdoors.

Tuesday, 7–8 pm, Ryerson Woods—Borland Cabin.

Adults, families with children ages 11 and up. $6 residents, $8 nonresidents.

4 Playdate with Nature Hope for snow and enjoy some winter activities. Build snow castles, creatures and caves. Create edible art for birds.

Wednesday, 10:30 am, Old School—Shelter C. Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Leave No Child Inside event.

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

Saturday, 9–10 am, Lake Carina. Adults. $1 residents, $2 nonresidents.

No registration required.

7 Snowmobile Safety Class and Certification Exam Passing the written exam at the end of the class allows youth ages 12–16 to operate a snowmobile on their own.

Saturday, 8 am–5 pm, Operations and Public Safety Facility.

Adults, families with children ages 10 and up.

FREE. Registration required: 847-968-3411.

8 Prep for Paddling—Clothing & Winter Paddling Tips Find out how to dress for all paddling conditions and get some tips on how to safely paddle in winter months.

Sunday, 1–3 pm, General Offices.

Adults, families with children ages 9 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

10 Hikin’ Tykes—Seeds Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration (weather permitting) for you and your preschool child.

Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Independence Grove Visitors Center. Children ages 2–4, with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 child nonresidents.

11 Small Discoveries—Gingerbread Bash Learn about the legend of the gingerbread man and make a seasonal craft.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 2-5, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child, includes Museum admission.

12 Healthy, Happy Kids in Nature Kids play in nature, while adults learn about the health benefits of playing outdoors. New activities and topics every month.

Thursday, 10:30–11:45 am, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Children ages 1–8, with an adult.

FREE. No registration required.

A Leave No Child Inside event.

13 Skokie Valley Astronomers—Stellar Evolution Explore the current understanding of how stars age and why the BK Lyn observations are important.

Friday, 8–9 pm, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center.

Adults, families with children ages 12 and up.

FREE. No registration required.

15 Animal Art Jamboree Explore the exhibition Beguiled by the Wild: The Art of Charley Harper, then participate in a variety of hands-on activities and art projects inspired by animals and nature.

30 & 31 Ring in the New Year Celebrate the New Year with crafts, party favors and a ball drop at noon.

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WIN T E R 2 01 3

Sunday, 1–4 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum. All ages.

FREE with Museum admission.

No registration required.

Monday & Tuesday, 11 am–1 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum. All ages.

FREE with Museum admission. No registration required.

Follow us on Twitter for Forest Preserve news and events @LCFPD. Fun nature photos, too.

Left: black-capped chickadee.

JANUARY 4 Walk with a Naturalist One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Heron Creek. Adults. $1 residents, $2 nonresidents.

No registration required.

5 Prep for Paddling—Fitness & Knots We’ll start with some yoga and once the knots in our muscles are relaxed, we’ll practice tying a few rope knots beneficial to paddle sports. Dress in comfortable clothes.

Sunday, 1–3 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Adults, families with children ages 9 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

8 Small Discoveries—Colorful Creatures View the bold wildlife art of Charley Harper and create a colorful masterpiece to take home.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child, includes Museum admission.

9 Healthy, Happy Kids in Nature Kids play in nature, while adults learn about the health benefits of playing outdoors. New activities and topics every month.

Thursday, 10:30–11:45 am, Greenbelt Cultural Center. Children ages 1–8, with an adult.

FREE. No registration required.

A Leave No Child Inside event.

10 Skokie Valley Astronomers—Skies of 2014 Discover the observation opportunities that await you in the skies of 2014. Stargaze afterward, weather permitting.

Friday, 8–9 pm, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center.

Adults, families with children ages 12 and up.

FREE. No registration required.

11 Snowmobile Safety Class and Certification Exam Passing the written exam at the end of the class allows youth ages 12–16 to operate a snowmobile on their own.

Saturday, 8 am–5 pm, Operations and Public Safety Facility.

Adults, families with children ages 10 and up.

FREE. Registration required: 847-968-3411.

12 Wildlife Tracking for Families Become a nature detective by searching for wildlife tracks and scat in the woods and make your own animal track cast.

Sunday, 9:30–11 am, Ryerson Woods—Borland Cabin.

Adults, families with children ages 4 and up. $10/family residents, $15/family nonresidents.

12 Stroller Tours—Beguiled by the Wild: The Art of Charley Harper Enjoy guided tours of current Museum exhibitions with your little ones in tow.

Sunday, 1:30–2:15 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Parents and caregivers with children 18 months and younger. $6, includes Museum admission. Children FREE.

14 Hikin’ Tykes—Fur Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration (weather permitting) 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.

15 Stroller Tours—Beguiled by the Wild: The Art of Charley Harper Enjoy guided tours of current Museum exhibitions with your little ones in tow.

Wednesday, 10:30–11:15 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Parents and caregivers with children 18 months and younger. $6, includes Museum admission. Children FREE.

15 Volunteer Open House

Learn about different volunteer opportunities and meet with staff to find the ideal fit for you. Volunteers are needed to assist with a variety of jobs, both indoors and outdoors, at forest preserves and special facilities throughout Lake County. No experience is required, just a willingness to help.

Wednesday, 5–7:30 pm, General Offices. Adults, youth ages 15 and up. FREE. No registration required.

LCFPD.org/volunteer

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12

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.

JANUARY (continued) 15 Ryerson Reads: Ecology of a Cracker Childhood Discuss Janisse Ray’s memoir which traces how a childhood spent in rural isolation grew into a passion to save the longleaf pine ecosystem that once covered the South.

Wednesday, 7:30–9 pm, Ryerson Woods—Brushwood.

Adults, families with children ages 12 and up. $15, $10 Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods members.

19 Instilling a Land Ethic—January Land Thaw Using the Leopold Education Project and Aldo Leopold’s essays, look for signs of animals to discover how they use the land in this monthly series.

Sunday, 10:30 am–12 pm, Grant Woods—North (Grand Avenue entrance).

Adults, families with children ages 11 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

19 Look, Learn, Create—Wild About Art View the work of artist Charley Harper, then use his bold and colorful style to create your own wildlife art.

Sunday, 1:30–2:30 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 4–12, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child, includes Museum admission.

20 Playdate with Nature Hope for snow and enjoy some winter activities. Build snow castles, creatures and caves. Create edible art for birds.

Monday, 1 pm, Lakewood—Winter Sports Area.

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

22 Small Discoveries—Chinese New Year Learn about the traditions of this popular holiday and make a Chinese New Year dragon to take home.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child, includes Museum admission.

23 Saving Species—Wildlife Conservation Wildlife Biologist Gary Glowacki speaks about our latest conservation efforts, including work with Blanding’s turtles, smooth green snakes, forest amphibians and more.

Thursday, 1–2 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Adults. $7 residents, $9 nonresidents.

25 Hoot & Howl Hike Use your ears to search for animals active on cold winter evenings.

Learn about their lives and how they have adapted to survive.

Saturday, 4:30–5:45 pm, Van Patten Woods—Shelter A. Adults, families with children ages 7 and up. $6 adult/$3 child residents, $8 adult/$4 child nonresidents.

FEBRUARY 1 Snowmobile Safety Class and Certification Exam Passing the written exam at the end of the class allows youth ages 12–16 to operate a snowmobile on their own.

Saturday, 8 am–5 pm, Operations and Public Safety Facility.

Adults, families with children ages 10 and up.

FREE. Registration required: 847-968-3411.

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

Saturday, 9–10 am, Raven Glen—Route 45 entrance. Adults. $1 residents, $2 nonresidents. No registration required.

2 Stroller Tours—A Tour of Lake County History Enjoy guided tours of current Museum exhibitions with your little ones in tow.

Sunday, 1:30–2:15 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Parents and caregivers with children 18 months and younger. $6, includes Museum admission. Children FREE.

2 Profiles in Excellence 31st annual celebration looks back at three decades of black history, highlighting the pivotal events that helped to shape our nation today.

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Sunday, 3–5 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages.

FREE. No registration required.

The conical shape of many evergreens make them more resilient to heavy accumulations of snow.

Our mobile app’s “ID it!” will feature trees for winter. Available for free in the Apple App Store or Android Play Store.

FEBRUARY (continued) 5 Stroller Tours—A Tour of Lake County History Enjoy guided tours of current Museum exhibitions with your little ones in tow.

Wednesday, 10:30–11:15 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Parents and caregivers with children 18 months and younger. $6, includes Museum admission. Children FREE.

8 Scout Saturday Mammal Study Merit Badge Earn your Merit Badge while investigating the mammals that call Lake County home.

Saturday, 1–5 pm, Ryerson Woods—Classroom Cabins.

Boy Scouts. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.

8 Phenology & Photography

Outdoor workshop combines a staff naturalist’s insight with technical tips from a professional photographer. We will meet at Fort Sheridan to take advantage of the amazing winter sunrise over Lake Michigan. February is sure to provide interesting photo subjects: ice formations, snowy oak woodlands, and more. Dress in warm layers and be prepared for cold weather in a beautiful setting.

Saturday, 7–10 am, Fort Sheridan. Adults, youth ages 16 and up. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.

9 Adlai E. Stevenson II Day Celebrate this Illinois holiday by visiting Stevenson’s cherished family home.

Sunday, 11 am–12 pm & 2:30–3:30 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson II Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up.

FREE. Registration required.

9 Prep for Paddling—Wind, Waves, Weather & Water Find out how these four Ws affect your paddling and what you can do to handle them.

Sunday, 1–3 pm, Independence Grove Visitors Center.

Adults, families with children ages 9 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

11 Hikin’ Tykes—Doves Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration (weather permitting) for you and your preschool child.

Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center. Children ages 2–4, with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/ $3 child nonresidents.

12 Small Discoveries—Be My Valentine Explore Valentine’s Day traditions. Make your own valentine to give to someone special, then make a sweet treat to take home.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child, includes Museum admission.

14 Romantic Night Hike

Learn wildlife courtship behaviors in a guided hike or self-guided ski/hike, then warm up with hot chocolate and s’mores.

Friday, 7:30–9 pm, Ryerson Woods—Borland Cabin. Adults. $6 residents, $8 nonresidents.

14 Skokie Valley Astronomers—Dark Matter Update Learn about new research and new ideas surrounding dark matter.

Friday, 8–9 pm, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center.

Adults, families with children ages 12 and up.

FREE. No registration required.

16 Instilling a Land Ethic—Good Oak Using the Leopold Education Project and Aldo Leopold’s essays, relate annual growth rings of a tree to environmental conditions during its growth in this monthly series.

Sunday, 10:30 am–12 pm, Wright Woods.

Adults, families with children ages 11 and up. $5 residents, $7 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.

FEBRUARY (continued) 17 Presidents Day Celebration Spend your day off school at the Museum for a variety of hands-on activities, crafts, stories and more.

Monday, 10 am–4 pm, Lake County Discovery Museum.

All ages.

FREE with Museum admission. No registration required.

17 Playdate with Nature Hope for snow and enjoy some winter activities. Build snow castles, creatures and caves. Create edible art for birds.

Monday, 1 pm, Lyons Woods.

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

19 Homeschool Companion—Stewardship in Winter Explore Almond Marsh in the winter, discovering its many habitats. Learn how you can help nature become healthier by removing non-native invasive plant species.

Wednesday, 10 am–12 pm, Almond Marsh.

Children ages 7–14. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

20 Healthy, Happy Kids in Nature Kids play in nature, while adults learn about the health benefits of playing outdoors. New activities and topics every month.

Thursday, 10:30–11:45 am, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Children ages 1–8, with an adult.

FREE. No registration required.

A Leave No Child Inside event.

20 Flight of the Passenger Pigeon Naturalist and author Joel Greenberg will discuss his new book, “A Feathered River Across the Sky,” which details the plight of the passenger pigeon.

Thursday, 7–8:30 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Adults, families ages 10 and up. $15 ($5 students with ID; $10 Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, Conserve Lake County or Lake Forest Open Lands members).

23 Hoot & Howl Hike

Use your ears to search for animals active on cold winter evenings. Learn about their lives and how they have adapted to survive. Whooo knows, you might get lucky enough to see one.

Sunday, 5–6:15 pm, Middlefork Savanna. Adults, families with children ages 7 and up. $6 adult/$3 child residents, $8 adult/$4 child nonresidents.

26 Small Discoveries—Winter Wonderland Stay cozy and warm in the Museum as we celebrate winter with stories and crafts.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child, includes Museum admission.

FEB 27-MAR 20 Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) Workshop Internationally recognized professional training for anyone who presents programs to the public.

Thursdays, 9 am–5:30 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

Adults, youth ages 16 and up. $245. Call 847-968-3482 for details.

MARCH

1-2, 8-9, 15-16 Maple Syrup Hikes

Learn how trees work and about the sweet sap of sugar maples. Ryerson Woods is one of the few places where climate conditions are right for maple syrup production and where trees grow to a diameter and height that allows for tapping. Everyone gets a taste. Program also available as a school or scout field trip, call 847-968-3321 for details.

First three weekends in March. Hikes every half-hour from 12:30-2:30 pm. Ryerson Woods.

All ages. $6. Children 3 and under, FREE. Hikes fill fast, so register soon.

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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS

Through February 2, 2014

The Hidden World of Infrared

Through February 16, 2014

Beguiled by the Wild: The Art of Charley Harper LCFPD.org/CharleyHarper Charley Harper’s (1922–2007) life-long love of nature inspired his work in this wonderful collection entitled Beguiled by the Wild. Harper was best known for his highly stylized wildlife prints, posters and book illustrations.

He called his style “minimal realism,” capturing the essence of his subjects with the fewest possible visual elements. Using graphic shapes and bold colors, Harper distilled and simplified complex elements. When enhanced by the Museum’s signature focus on interactive exhibits, this national touring exhibition is a must-see for the entire family.

Lake County Discovery Museum

This stunning collection of infrared photographs looks into a beautiful and often eerie world invisible to the naked eye.

Using a modified digital camera, photographer Rob Kuehnle challenges viewers to see familiar subjects in new ways.

Greenbelt Cultural Center

Through March 30, 2014

Transitions: Photography by Debbie Walker

Transitions is a journey where there is divine order that is followed by all things. When left untouched, it is expressed eloquently. Not always obvious, but always eloquent. Stages, expressed in nature, mirror those expressed in all things; emerging, basking, surrender, transition and rebirth. This exhibit focuses on those universal changes in time, and the beauty and strength that are present in all seasons of life.

For all things there is a time to thrive, a purpose to serve and a season to express it.

Independence Grove Visitors Center

Through February 2, 2014

The Passenger Pigeon’s Flight to Extinction 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the extinction of the passenger pigeon. This original exhibition explores connections between the human world, and looks at some of the work being done today to help prevent similar extinctions from occurring.

Lake County Discovery Museum

Through December 22

Transgressions: Works by Annette Barbier Presented by the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods

The work of Annette Barbier heightens our awareness of our detrimental impact on the natural world. Her unconventional techniques include laser cutting and engraving on natural materials such as leaves and feathers. In the series Subtractions, native leaf species are engraved with the images and names of invasive plants, and feathers are engraved with the names of extinct bird species.

Noms de Plume comments on our propensity to name newly “discovered” plants and animals after ourselves. Casualties depicts birds dead through collisions with downtown skyscrapers on glass plates. In ways that are sometimes somber and sometimes humorous, the work asks the viewer to remember what we have lost, to acknowledge our role, and to consider our paths for the future.

January 19–February 27, 2014

Back from the Brink: Photographs by Arlene Koziol Presented by the Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods Capturing authentic and intimate moments with her camera lens, Arlington Heights photographer Arlene Koziol’s images tell the story of survival. With particular interest in bird behavior, Koziol’s stunning images communicate the story of how certain threatened or endangered species have turned the corner, recovered and now thrive.

Artist Reception Sunday, January 19, 1–3 Ryerson Woods—Brushwood

pm

Artist Reception Sunday, November 10, 1–3 Ryerson Woods—Brushwood

pm

March 15–August 17, 2014

Arnold Newman: Luminaries of the Twentieth Century in Art, Politics and Culture A photography exhibition of the innovative minds and personalities that defined a century as seen through the eyes of one of its own­—Arnold Newman. See page 7 for details.

Lake County Discovery Museum

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1958

1961

Ethel saw that development was rapidly claiming open space and recognized the need to preserve Lake County’s natural lands for education and recreation. The next day, the 33-year-old homemaker began to work with other like-minded citizens to organize a county-wide referendum to establish the Lake County Forest Preserves. Four years later, in 1961, Van Patten Woods was dedicated as the county’s first forest preserve.

Although we lost Ethel in 2009, her legacy thrives today in more than 30,000 acres of protected land, spread across 65 sites throughout the county. But her work is not done. Each year, hundreds of supporters are following Ethel’s lead and making a personal investment in the future of the Forest Preserves through the Preservation Foundation.

The Preservation Foundation is the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

We raise funds, promote volunteering and seek support to protect and preserve Lake County’s open spaces, natural lands, and cultural, educational and recreational resources.

1972

Although public funds cover the Forest Preserves’ basic needs, donations to the Preservation Foundation help special programs and projects get completed more quickly.

Without private donations and volunteer support, important educational programs, habitat restoration projects, cultural activities and preserve improvements would not happen or would take many more years to complete.

Since our inception in 2007, the Preservation Foundation has channeled donor support into projects that strengthen the county and the community. We have planted nearly 5,000 trees, preserved more than 1,000 acres of land, provided field trip programs to tens of thousands of Lake County students, and graduated more than 230 students from the Science First in Lake County program. Gifts at all levels make these successes possible.

Like Ethel Untermyer, Preservation Foundation supporters understand how much the Forest Preserves improve the quality of life in Lake County. And like Ethel’s remarkable gift to Lake County, each gift to the Forest Preserves through the Preservation Foundation is a legacy for future generations.

THROUGH THE DECADES Top, from left: Children’s nature outing featured on referendum poster, circa 1958; Van Patten Woods (Wadsworth) dedication ceremony, with Lake County Forest Preserve’s first Board President David Van Patten (for whom the preserve is named), 1961; nature hike in fall color, Old School (Mettawa) 1972; canoe marathon on the Des Plaines River, 1978; volunteers planting native species as part of a major habitat restoration at Prairie Wolf Slough (Highland Park), 2001. Inset: Ethel Untermyer, son Frank and friend, 1958.

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1977

2001

2007

â—„

TODAY Science First in Lake County turns forest preserves into living laboratories for Lake County middle school students. This summer science program is made possible through gifts to the Preservation Foundation.

The Preservation Foundation is the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

Gifts of all sizes are meaningful and help support projects and initiate programs that may otherwise go unfunded or take many more years to complete.

To learn how you can give, please contact the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

8 4 7_ 9 6 8_3 1 1 0 ThePreservationFoundation.com

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SPECIAL FACILITIES Directory GENERAL OFFICES

1899 West Winchester Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048 847-367-6640 tel 847-367-6649 fax 847-968-3155 TDD

911 emergency 847–549–5200 nonemergency public safety issues

LCFPD.org 8 am –4:30 pm, Monday–Friday

OUTDOOR RECREATION

EDUCATION & CULTURE

GOLF

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

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

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

LCFPD.org/Ryerson Welcome Center Hours 9 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Saturday 11 AM–4 PM, Sundays Restroom only, Mondays Brushwood Hours 10 AM–4 PM, Monday–Thursday 1–3 PM Sundays, or by appointment GREENBELT CULTURAL CENTER 1215 Green Bay Road North Chicago, Illinois 60064 847–968–3477 GreenbeltCulturalCenter.org

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 CountrysideGolfClub.org

Gallery & Office Hours

BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB

11 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Friday

33600 North US Highway 45 Grayslake, Illinois 60030

LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM

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

Lake County History Archives Curt Teich Postcard Archives 27277 North Forest Preserve Road Wauconda, Illinois 60084 847–968–3400 Main 847–968–3381 Archives, Research LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum.org 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

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

Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets

BraeLochGolfClub.org

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES FOREST PRESERVE Entrance/Parking

More than 30,000 acres make up your Lake County Forest Preserves.

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

MAP CURRENT AS OF

Friday, October 11, 2013

FOREST PRESERVE EASEMENTS STATE LAND (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources) CANOE LAUNCH DOG AREA COMMUNITY GARDEN

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 PRAIRIE CROSSING TRAIL

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

(L.C.Division of Transportation)

CASEY TRAIL Planned section

GENERAL OFFICES

OPERATIONS FACILITY

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 74 MATURE TREES, 24,011 LBS GREENHOUSE GASES, 7,297 LBS SOLID WASTE

Enjoy it while you can

SUMMER CAMPS

The only thing needed is snow! Everything else is ready

Choose from adventures in nature, art, fishing, history and more. Programs for ages 4–15.

Register online at LCFPD.org/camps.

and waiting for cross-country skiing in our preserves.

Few things are as peaceful and exhilarating as an outing in the winter woods. Snow quiets many noises and puts a sparkle on the landscape. A blanket of fresh snow in the woods is one of nature’s most picturesque sights. Our advice is to take advantage of skiable snow as soon as possible. Within a week or even a day it may disappear.

As most ski buffs would agree, fresh snow is a good reason to postpone just about any other plans and treat yourself to a winter delight. LCFPD.org/xcski.

Golf Gift Bonus Effortless giving: golf gift cards are good for greens fees and pro shop items at any of our golf courses. Purchase through January 3 and receive a $10 bonus voucher for every $50 in gifts. Buy online at LCFPD.org/givegolf, by phone at 847968-6640, or at our General Offices.

◄ FLICKR PICK Take an evening hike along solar-lighted trails at Old School (Libertyville) or Lakewood (Mundelein). Illuminated trails and adjacent parking lots are open after sunset until 9 pm, daily through March 9.

Photo posted by Natcarm via Flickr.

Connect with us! 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.”