Upcoming Board Meetings Public sessions vary, check website for dates. Agendas posted at MCCDistrict.org. Brookdale Administrative Offices 18410 US Hwy. 14, Woodstock (815) 338-6223 Our Mission The McHenry County Conservation District exists to preserve, restore and manage natural areas and open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the benefits to present and future generations. Our Vision To fulfill our promise that McHenry County’s public lands, water, wildlife and way of life will thrive in a rapidly changing world. Where people of all ages, cultures and abilities are engaged and empowered to learn about and contribute to conservation in diverse and impactful ways. Where wild and scenic places support thriving native plants and wildlife populations and public lands support diverse outdoor recreation, educational and immersive experiences. BOARD OF TRUSTEES Christopher Dahm Tr us tee Patrick Fritz Tr us tee Linda Thomas Tr us tee Reynaldo Gaytan Jr. Tr us tee Lloyd Everard Tr us tee Shawn Zimmerman Tr us tee Ron Wieczorek Tr us tee John Reinert County Board Liaison Elizabeth S. Kessler Executive Director Landscapes is a FREE publication. To subscribe or update your contact info: email MCCD@ MCCDistrict.org or call (815) 338-6223. The publication can also be read online at MCCDistrict.org. Editor : Wendy Kummerer Photographic contributors : Weg Thomas, staff and others as indicated. Front cover: Cooper's Hawk by Ken Wick Back cover: Golden Crown Kinglet by Mike Hoffman Connect with us: Sign up for our E-newsletter at MCCD.me/Subscribe American with Disabilities Act McHenry County Conservation District welcomes the participation of all individuals in our programs, including those with disabilities. We are fully committed to complying with the ADA and providing reasonable accommodations to facilitate participation in our programs. It is the responsibility of participants, parents/guardians to contact the District to make arrangements for any accommodation at the time of registration; no later than two weeks prior to the start of a program or special event. Safety is a Priority Safety is a top priority to all who visit our sites and facilities. If, while on a Conservation District site, you see or witness something that appears to be unsafe, please call the Conservation District and let us know (815) 338-6223. Photography Participants in McHenry County Conservation District programs and visitors at our sites may be photographed, videotaped or filmed for use in District publications, promotions, and on the District web site or social media channels. All photos taken on District property are the sole property of the District. Help us Update Our Mailing List! To update your address, request an E-version or to unsubscribe, please email [email protected] and let us know your changes or updates. From the Executive Director— Our Vision for the Future – Healthy Landscapes, People and Wildlife! Each year more than a million visitors enjoy the outdoor spaces and places the Conservation District provides. Their experiences on our sites become the memories they share with future generations and deepen their appreciation of, and role in, the protection of these natural areas. With our newly adopted strategic focus and direction to guide our priorities and investments over the next five years, we are ready to meet both the opportunities and challenges on the horizon with the assistance of passionate people who believe deeply in our mission and vision. Over the past decade we’ve experienced more heat days, drought conditions, increased flooding, and have been subject to poor air quality from wildfire smoke. As McHenry County and the region continues to experience the impacts of climate change, we are preparing to respond with cost-effective, nature-based solutions. The Conservation District does this by managing open spaces, shorelines and woodlands that provide crucial ecosystem services including stormwater management, carbon sequestration, clean air and water, and aquatic and wildlife habitats. We also know that that the only way to protect our most cherished natural and cultural heritage resources is to connect people to them. We are committed to providing equitable access to nature for all people and this requires healthy and resilient landscapes where everyone feels safe and welcome and can engage in healthy habits that prevent disease and enhance physical and mental well-being. It is our collective responsibility to engage in reciprocity and promote a land ethic which requires us to protect these lands and waters for future generations. Whether you enjoy walking, bicycling, paddling or meditation in nature - find your wild by discovering conservation areas located nearby. Learn more about what is happening at the Conservation District by visiting our website at MCCDistrict.org, by following us on social media or by subscribing to our newsletter. I am grateful for our board, staff, community partners and many volunteers who believe in our mission and vision and who lead with a conservation stewardship land-ethic. You showcase optimism in our future and promote the best of McHenry County! Yours in Conservation, Elizabeth S. Kessler, MBA, CPRE — Executive Director Landscapes | Fall 2023