2024 Fall Landscapes

LLaannddscscaappeses Fall 2024

From the Executive Director— Dear Friends of Conservation, As the crisp embrace of autumn settles over McHenry County, I 昀椀nd myself re昀氀ecting on the Conservation District’s journey of preserving natural heritage and enhancing community access to its wonders. Our mission has always been rooted in stewardship—protecting water quality, preserving wildlife habitat and McHenry County Conservation District manages ensuring outdoor recreation access for all. over 25,800 acres of open space graced with At the heart of our initiatives lies a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability woodlands, prairies, wetlands and savannas. Trails and community well-being. Through tireless e昀昀orts, we have safeguarded our precious and other recreational amenities have been added water resources, understanding their vital role not only for wildlife but for the health within 35 conservation areas where the public can and prosperity of our communities. Collaborative partnerships have empowered us to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, picnicking, make signi昀椀cant strides, protecting and restoring natural areas along our rivers, lakes and horseback riding, camping, cross-country skiing, streams. snowmobiling and hundreds of opportunities to attend outdoor environmental educational Preserving wildlife habitat remains a cornerstone of our work. Our endeavors to restore programs and events. habitats sustains biodiversity and enriches our shared natural landscape, ensuring future generations can cherish and enjoy these ecosystems. Whether through habitat restoration Our Mission projects, educational outreach initiatives or creating accessible outdoor recreation The McHenry County Conservation District exists opportunities, our dedication to thriving alongside nature shapes every e昀昀ort. to preserve, restore and manage natural areas and This fall, an important proposition stands before us. On November 5, 2024, McHenry County open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the residents will vote on a ballot measure that directly impacts our community's natural bene昀椀ts to present and future generations. resources and the durability of our conservation areas. This proposition rea昀케rms our Our Vision commitment to responsible stewardship—ensuring our conservation areas remain viable and valuable for the long-term. Our Board of Trustees crafted a sustainable 昀椀nancial plan to To ful昀椀ll our promise that McHenry County’s public protect water quality, preserve wildlife habitat and increase outdoor recreation access, all lands, water, wildlife and way of life will thrive in a while reducing property taxes paid to the Conservation District by 45%. rapidly changing world. Where people of all ages, Fiscal responsibility is central to our mission. We operate with transparency and cultures and abilities are engaged and empowered accountability, ensuring that every dollar maximizes our conservation impact. With the to learn about and contribute to conservation in support of voters, we aim to broaden our conservation e昀昀orts by restoring lands to optimal diverse and impactful ways. Where wild and scenic health while at the same time maintaining and enhancing existing conservation areas and places support thriving native plants and wildlife trails for public enjoyment. populations and public lands support diverse outdoor recreation, educational and immersive Looking ahead, our collective responsibility is clear: safeguarding natural treasures and experiences. fostering a sustainable future where everyone can appreciate nature’s beauty. We have the obligation to preserve and protect these resources for both present and future generations. Board of Trustees Thank you for your continued trust and support in our shared mission. Your involvement— Created by a group of ecologically conscientious whether through advocacy, volunteering, participating in programs, sharing our citizens in 1971 and supported by the Illinois conservation success stories or simply enjoying the awe of our sites —makes an indelible Conservation District Act of 1963, the McHenry di昀昀erence. Together, let us leave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship and County Conservation District began with the community resilience. mission to preserve open space, and to provide environmental education programs and resources Yours in Conservation, for recreational opportunities to the public. Today, McHenry County Conservation District continues as a special district governed by a seven member Board of Trustees. Elizabeth S. Kessler, MBA, CPRE — Executive Director Christopher Dahm Mike Szurek Trustee Trustee Landscapes is a FREE publication. Lloyd Everard Nora Lee Zeller To subscribe or update your contact info, email Trustee Trustee [email protected] or call (815) 338-6223. Shawn Zimmerman John Reinert Connect with us: Trustee County Board Liaison Sign up for our E-newsletter at MCCD.me/Subscribe. Ron Wieczorek Elizabeth S. Kessler Trustee Executive Director Editorial & Design: Caitlynn Martinez-McWhorter, Sarah Lorenz and Wendy Kummerer Bonnie Leahy Front cover: Joshua Cummins / Great White Egret Trustee Back cover: Valerie Oldenburg / Fall Fungi at Coral Woods Conservation Area Photographic Contributors: Weg Thomas, sta昀昀 and others as indicated

Ten Acres in Burton Township Gifted to Conservation District The Conservation District entered into an agreement to receive a gift of a 10-acre parcel from the Land Reserves, LLC. The property, located in unincorporated Burton Township, runs along the north side of Nippersink Creek, roughly half-way between the Lyle C. Thomas Memorial Park and the District’s Nippersink Canoe Base. It is directly opposite of 111 acres owned by the Conservation District on the south side of the creek where Spring Creek, a large wetland restoration project, was completed in 2022. The protection of this land complements the District’s natural resource protection e昀昀orts of Nippersink Creek, one of the highest quality streams in the state. The gift transaction is expected to close later this year. Project Updates at The Hollows Access to Lake Atwood (including the parking lot and trails), located in the Hollows Conservation Area in Cary, will be temporarily closed this fall due to an exciting project! Construction will begin September 3 and continue through the middle of November (weather permitting). Improvements to the site include replacing a 1-mile trail around Lake Atwood with an accessible paved trail, as well as adding a second k w 昀椀shing pier, installing interpretive signage a s H ' r e and adding solar lighting to facilitate evening p o o e C cross country skiing and hiking. The project is l i n e funded by an Open Space Lands Acquisition and v u s / J Development Program grant from Illinois Department of Natural Resources. r e y n M An additional project includes the installation of a new ADA canoe and e r u a kayak launch, made possible by an $80,000 Boat Access Area Development L grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and donations to McHenry County Conservation Foundation. We request your patience while we complete these exciting additions to one of our most popular conservation areas. Seeking Conservation Champion Award Nominations McHenry County Conservation District is seeking nominations of individuals who have been Conservation Champions for the public lands of McHenry County! The Conservation Champion and Conservation Legacy IN THIS ISSUE awards recognize individuals who have made extraordinary impacts to conservation through their continued dedication to and support of the 2 News & Noteworthy Conservation District. Make a Nomination at MCCD.me/ConservationAwards. 4 Proposition 2024 Nominations will be accepted through December 31, 2024. 8 Year in Review FIND US OUT & ABOUT! 10 Foundation News Woodstock Farmer's Markets 12 Seasonal Sightings August 17 & 20; September 3; October 5 13 Volunteer 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Woodstock Square, Woodstock 14 Special Events Summer Sunset Festival Community Picnic Saturday, August 31 16 Programs 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills 23 Calendars Landscapes | FALL 2024

News & Noteworthy Wishing Happy Trails to Director of Marketing & Education Wendy Kummerer After 18 Years With Conservation District While Landscapes readers may not know her name, they are certainly familiar with her writing. After eighteen years at the Conservation District, Director of Marketing & Education Wendy Kummerer—long-time editor of Landscapes Magazine—has passed down the pen in pursuit of new adventures that await her in retirement. Kummerer, a former journalist, began her career at the Conservation District in 2006. Over the years she increased awareness of the District’s mission by reaching and engaging with existing and new audiences. She led the rebranding of the Conservation District in 2009, grew Landscapes Magazine readership and produced thousands of print and digital media pieces. She wrote and implemented multiple Communication and Marketing Plans and led both the Education and Marketing Departments to new levels of synergy, most notably during the global health pandemic. When asked what she will miss the most about working at the Conservation District, Kummerer responded, jokingly, “I will miss the giant scissors!” referencing the nearly 3-foot long pair of scissors that hung in her o昀케ce when not being used to cut ribbons at Conservation Area openings. During her time with the District, she witnessed the number of sites grow from just 15 to 35, reaching over 25,800 protected acres. On a more serious note, she adds, “My fondest memories will be of working with the sta昀昀 and leadership that made it happen—those who put their heart and soul in the mission and made work rewarding and so much fun.” Sta昀昀 will miss Kummerer’s leadership, mentorship, sense of humor and passion for the work of the District. Director of Land Senior Landscape Preservation and Architect Sarah Natural Resources Ed Rummel Awarded Collins Honored With For Prairie Trail Silver Eagle Award South Project Director of Land In May, the McHenry Preservation and Natural County Conservation Resources Ed Collins was District’s Planning honored with the Silver and Development Eagle Award from the Midwest U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Department was Region. The Silver Eagle Award is the most prestigious honored with the Outstanding Planning or Capital Project external award given by the Midwest USFWS Region. It Award from the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association’s recognizes individuals outside of the USFWS who have made Forest Preserve and Conservation Section for the Prairie Trail exceptional contributions to environmental and natural South Stream Erosion and Trail Stabilization Project. resource issues. This project, led by Senior Landscape Architect Sarah For the last 38 years, Collins has been dedicated to bringing Rummel, PLA, focused on a section of the Prairie Trail just partners together to achieve larger conservation goals. Not north of Algonquin Road. A section of streambank was only has he led many signi昀椀cant projects at the Conservation stabilized, totaling nearly 3,000 linear feet, by meandering the District, including the remeandering of Nippersink Creek creek and implementing innovative lunker structures where and the Oaks of McHenry County study, but he also played longstanding erosion issues had created areas of instability. an instrumental role in the establishment of Hackmatack Stormwater infrastructure was also updated, and the asphalt National Wildlife Refuge and most recently helped secure the trail was resurfaced. 985-acre Tamarack Farms. The Prairie Trail is a valuable resource to our residents, Collins was honored at a Friends of Hackmatack National providing recreation opportunities and an alternative Wildlife Refuge gathering that also celebrated the transportation route while connecting our county’s partnerships between organizations including USFWS, The communities. Conservation Fund, Openlands, Illinois Audubon Society, McHenry County Community Foundation, Nippersink Watershed Association, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Ducks Unlimited, McHenry County Conservation Left to right: Ed Collins with his daughter and grandson; Amy Peters, ASLA (Planning and Development Foundation and McHenry County Conservation District. Manager), Christopher Dahm (Board Trustee), Sarah Rummel, PLA, ASLA (Senior Landscape Architect) 2 Landscapes | FALL 2024

News & Noteworthy @sweepster 6 m a f t @vu s r o t a - n e m - h e @ @kuhnskrew Find Your Wild got even WILDER in 2024! Thank you to the over 1,000 participants who joined our award-winning challenge this summer! After just one month, we surpassed last year's total number of participants. We enjoyed all of your submissions and hope you had as much fun earning points and prizes as we did following along with your adventures! Thank you to our library partners! This year, eleven local libraries helped participants 昀椀nd even more ways to experience the outdoors. Thank you to Algonquin Area Public Library District, Cary Area Public Library, Crystal Lake Public Library, Fox River Grove Memorial Library, Harvard Diggins Library, Huntley Area Public Library, Johnsburg Public Library, Marengo-Union Library District, Nippersink Public Library District, River East Public Library and Woodstock Public Library. Thank you to our prize sponsors! This year's baskets were sponsored in part by: Avant Cycle Café; Breaking Bread Catering & Deli; Dave's Bait, Tackle and Taxidermy; Glacial Gear; McHenry County Audubon; McHenry County Conservation Foundation; Play It Again Sports (Crystal Lake); Red Bu昀昀alo Nursery; and The Running Depot. There is still time to play! The challenge continues through Labor Day Weekend! Learn more at MCCD.me/FindYourWild. Landscapes | FALL 2024 3

McHenry County Conservation District McHenry County Conserva琀椀on District AGENCY PROFILE l a g ger u k n La c li y i K e t l r h n W u s e K A K Since 1971, McHenry County Conservation District has been protecting natural areas, preserving our water sources, enhancing wildlife habitats and improving outdoor education and recreational opportunities. Today, the District manages over 25,800 acres with 35 sites open for the public to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities from hiking and biking to camping, paddling, 昀椀shing and picnicking. These wide open spaces o昀昀er near endless opportunities for exploration. We believe every citizen is entitled to certain intrinsic conservation rights that a昀昀ord the best opportunity to enhance their quality of life through healthy and sustainable natural resources, and beautiful outdoor places to explore, discover and recreate. These natural areas 昀椀lter rainwater, reduce the risk of 昀氀ooding and help cleanse the water we drink and the air we breathe, o昀昀ering tremendous value to the municipalities we serve. The Conservation District’s protection of high-quality natural areas ful昀椀lls a statutory mandate to steward these public lands for future generations, lands which represent the county’s natural and cultural heritage. over 35 118 25,800 miles of Sample Ballot Language: acres of McHenry County Conservation District Proposition to Increase the Limiting Rate Protected Open Sites for Protected Shall the limiting rate under the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law for the Open Space Public Access Waterway McHenry County Conservation District, McHenry County, Illinois, be increased by an 12,019 2,545 over additional amount equal to 0.027% above the limiting rate for levy year 2023 for the trees species 105 purposes of protecting drinking water sources, protecting the water quality of rivers, planted in Protected in miles of lakes, and streams, providing park access for people with disabilities, protecting Reforestation McHenry County Hiking Trails wildlife habitat, protecting forests and planting trees, improving and maintaining E昀昀orts Habitats existing conservation areas, and other lawful purposes of the Conservation District, 45 37 23 and be equal to 0.109660% of the equalized assessed value of the taxable property miles miles therein for levy year 2024? of of (1) The approximate amount of taxes extendable at the most recently extended Regional Horse Trails Sites O昀昀er Fishing limiting rate is $9,250,889, and the approximate amount of taxes extendable if the Biking Trails Opportunities proposition is approved is $12,272,592. over 18 5 (2) For the 2024 levy year the approximate amount of the additional tax extendable 650 against property containing a single family residence and having a fair market value at Environmental the time of the referendum of $100,000 is estimated to be $9. Education and Sites O昀昀er Picnic Sites with Wildlife Programs Areas & Shelters Campgrounds (3) If the proposition is approved, the aggregate extension for 2024 will be determined 5 1 over by the limiting rate set forth in the proposition, rather than the otherwise applicable 1,281,900 limiting rate calculated under the provisions of the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (commonly known as the Property Tax Cap Law). Kayak/Canoe Disc Golf Launches Course Visitors Each Year 4 Landscapes | FALL 2024

McHenry County Conserva琀椀on District McHenry County Conservation District NOVEMBER 5, 2024 LIMITING RATE PROPOSITION KEY PURPOSES key facts 1. The approval of this proposition On November 5, 2024 McHenry County Conservation District voters will have the provides a funding source to protect the opportunity to vote to protect WATER QUALITY, preserve WILDLIFE HABITAT, and water quality of our rivers, lakes and streams, improve OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESS FOR ALL on the General Election ballot. safeguard natural areas and wildlife habitat, and provide outdoor recreation opportunities that Water Quality Protection are accessible to all. The Conservation District will protect McHenry County’s 2. The proposition allows the Conservation drinking water sources by safeguarding and restoring District to protect land, including wetlands, areas that 昀椀lter and store our drinking water. They will that protect and improve McHenry County’s s drinking water sources; protect wildlife habitat a also protect the water quality by protecting and restoring m o h and natural areas that contribute greatly T natural areas along our rivers, lakes and streams. g We to our quality of life and our physical and mental health; protect woodlands and plant Wildlife Habitat Preservation trees to improve our air quality; and provide The Conservation District will preserve and restore essential opportunities for children and adults to enjoy wildlife habitat for plants and animals including wetlands, natural areas and disconnect from technology woodlands and prairies that protect wildlife species such as and digital media. h the sandhill crane, bald eagle, river otter, osprey, monarch t 3. With the passage of the proposition, a i butter昀氀y and bobcat. The District will protect additional Sm y homeowner in McHenry County, with a home d n natural areas throughout the county. Ci valued at $300,000 would pay just $2.25 additional per month, or an additional $27 Outdoor Recreation Access for All per year in total property taxes paid to the The Conservation District will improve trails, enhance Conservation District. However, this will not parks and natural areas and increase outdoor recreation take e昀昀ect until 2026 at which time the general opportunities for all residents and visitors, including obligation bonds will be retired and instead people with disabilities, so that everyone can enjoy the of an increase, homeowners will see a 45% physical and mental health bene昀椀ts of being outdoors. reduction in their property taxes paid to the Conservation District. 4. In 2026, general obligation bonds issued by the Conservation District will be retired. This means that the passage of the proposition will not only provide new funding for the Conservation District to maintain and improve the quality of its programs and services, homeowners will see a 45% decrease in total property taxes paid to the Conservation District on their 2026 tax bill. For a home valued at $300,000, this equals a $94 reduction in property taxes in 2026. 5. The Conservation District is required to limit the use of the dedicated funding for the purposes of protecting drinking water sources, protecting the water quality of rivers, lakes and streams, providing access for all, protecting wildlife habitat, protecting forests and planting trees, improving and maintaining existing conservation areas, and other lawful purposes of the Conservation District. An annual public audit of how funds are spent will be conducted and full disclosure of expenditures provided. Protect WATER QUALITY • Preserve WILDLIFE HABITAT MCCDISTRICT.ORG Improve OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESS FOR ALL [email protected] Landscapes | FALL 2024 5

McHenry County Conservation District McHenry County Conserva琀椀on District McHenry County Conservation District LIMITING RATE PROPOSITION - GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT November 5, 2024 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS The following is informational and does not take a position for or against the proposition. 1. Why is the Conservation District going to ballot? This proposition will allow the Conservation District to protect drinking water sources, protect the water quality of our rivers, lakes and streams, protect wildlife habitat, protect woodlands and planting trees, and improve existing conservation areas. The passage of this proposition would provide dedicated funding to secure the future of our natural areas and outdoor recreation amenities for generations to come. s 2. How will the Conservation District spend the funds? a m This proposition will ensure that McHenry County Conservation District has the means o h T g necessary to safeguard our water quality, natural areas, wildlife habitats and outdoor We Protect recreation opportunities and that they will be protected for future generations. WATER QUALITY The Conservation District will: • Protect the quality of drinking water sources in McHenry County by restoring areas that 昀椀lter and store our county’s drinking water. • Protect the water quality of McHenry County’s rivers, lakes and streams and the natural areas by protecting natural areas beside them from development. Improve natural water quality by restoring streams and the headwater tributaries that feed them. • Preserve wildlife habitat and natural areas, including woodlands and wetlands. These lands protect wildlife, such as the sandhill crane, bald eagle, river otter, osprey, monarch butter昀氀y and bobcat. • Improve trails, enhance parks and natural areas and increase outdoor recreation P opportunities for all residents and visitors, including people with disabilities, so reserve everyone can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors. WILDLIFE HABITAT 3. What are the bene昀椀ts of passing the Conservation District proposition? • Protect land, including wetlands, that safeguards and improves McHenry County’s drinking water sources. • Preserve the water quality of our rivers, lakes and streams. • Protect wildlife habitat and natural areas contribute greatly to our quality of life and our physical and mental health. ey l • Ensure that the natural treasures represented by over 25,800 acres, 35 open sites and e e r G a 150+ miles of trails will be here for future generations. th r a M • Protect forests/woodlands and plant hundreds of trees to improve our air quality. Improve OUTDOOR RECREATION • Provide alternative opportunities for children and adults to enjoy natural areas and ACCESS FOR ALL be able to disconnect from technology and digital media. Protect WATER QUALITY • Preserve WILDLIFE HABITAT Landscapes |FALL2024 Improve OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESS FOR ALL 6

McHenry County Conservation District McHenry County Conserva琀椀on District McHenry County Conservation District 4. What does the Conservation District o昀昀er residents? McHenry County Conservation District protects over 25,800 acres of open space, preserves the water quality of signi昀椀cant wetlands, lakes and streams and restores wildlife habitat for hundreds of native plants and animals within high-quality wetlands, woodlands and prairies throughout the county. The Conservation District o昀昀ers hundreds of education opportunities and provides a myriad of outdoor recreation opportunities for all citizens and visitors to capture the physical and mental health bene昀椀ts of being outdoors. Thirty-昀椀ve sites are open to the public featuring 105 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of biking trails, 23 昀椀shing areas, 6 campgrounds, 7 canoe launches, 37 miles of horse trails, 18 sites with picnic areas and shelters and numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing. 5. What will be the Average Annual Cost to a McHenry County Homeowner? With the passage of the proposition, a homeowner in McHenry County, with a home valued at $300,000 would pay just $2.25 more per month, or an additional $27 per year in total property taxes paid to the Conservation District. This will take e昀昀ect in 2026 when the District's general obligation bonds are retired and instead of an increase, homeowners will see a 45% reduction in their property taxes paid to the Conservation District. 6. How will the proposition a昀昀ect my taxes in the long run? Homeowners will see a 45% decrease in total property taxes paid to the Conservation District on their 2026 tax bill. For a home valued at $300,000, this equals a $94 reduction in property taxes in 2026, while providing funding for the Conservation District to maintain and improve the quality of its programs and services. 7. How has the Conservation District demonstrated 昀椀scal responsibility? The Conservation District has been resilient, resourceful and 昀椀scally responsible by securing multiple grants and sponsorships whenever possible, leveraging resources and expertise by collaborating with local, state and federal agencies, and non- governmental organizations and by implementing e昀케ciencies and budget-cutting measures. Out of concern for the economic position of taxpayers, the Conservation District held the line on property taxes for nine of the last twelve years and has not requested voters to consider approval of a ballot measure since 2007—over 17 years ago. s s a a m m o o h h T T g g We We Protect P WATER QUALITY reserve Improve WILDLIFE HABITAT OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESS FOR ALL NOVEMBER 5, 2024 LIMITING RATE PROPOSITION LEARN MORE: MCCD.me/Proposi琀椀on2024 Landscapes | FALL 2024 7

YEAR IN REVIEW FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS 2023-2024 McHenry County Conservation District and cultural heritage. however, it has become increasingly stewards a thriving and ecologically The Board of Trustees and sta昀昀 of the di昀케cult to achieve these goals without diverse system of natural areas, wildlife McHenry County Conservation District capturing in昀氀ationary growth. And all habitat, sites and trails. This system has are committed to ensuring public too often this results in maintenance a rich history extending back over 昀椀ve resources are appropriately allocated backlogs and deteriorating decades and plays an important role and stewarded so that McHenry infrastructure. in ensuring McHenry County remains County’s wide open spaces and But conservation stewardship is a a viable, connected and healthy wonderful places are safeguarded for shared endeavor. The Conservation community as the area continues to current and future generations. District works collaboratively with grow and change. As with previous years, the budget conservation advocates, volunteers and Because of a shared conservation prioritizes public health and safety, other partners to implement plans to vision and land ethic held by a broad 昀椀nancial discipline and taking care preserve and protect McHenry County’s constituent base, McHenry County has of existing infrastructure. As part of natural landscapes. Annual investments protected the most diverse natural this process, the Conservation District made by residents to preserve open areas and ecosystems in northeastern selectively adds new programs and space, restore aquatic and wildlife Illinois. These natural areas attract projects, adapts or discontinues habitats and to ensure public access visitors from around the county and programs and services not meeting will continue to be paramount for region to experience McHenry County’s performance standards, and maintains McHenry County’s resiliency into natural beauty and to engage in the trails, sites, buildings and conservation the future. Protecting water quality, unique and popular outdoor recreation areas on a less than optimal schedule preserving wildlife habitat, improving opportunities they provide. More that aligns with available funding and outdoor recreation access for all importantly, the Conservation District’s organizational capacity. Maintaining and maintaining conservation areas protection and restoration of high- healthy and resilient lands, expanding requires adequate and sustainable quality natural areas ful昀椀lls a statutory communication and outreach, and funding. mandate to steward these public lands ensuring quality service and visitor which represent the county’s natural safety standards remains a priority; * Statement of Revenues & Expenditures All Funds Summarized, Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2024 REVENUES FY 2024 Revenues Tax Revenue 22,316,459 Grants 130,079 Farm & Property Leases 1,526,028 Investment Income 940,519 Programs & Services 719,772 Other Revenues 342,652 Total Revenues $25,975,509 EXPENDITURES Debt Service 13,213,775 FY 2024 Expenditures Operations 10,818,201 Capital Outlays Land Acquisition 22,225 Sites & Trails 1,793,809 Building Improvements 15,833 Vehicles & Equipment 851683 Total Expenditures $26,715,526 8 Landscapes | FALL 2024 * At time of print, 昀椀nancial information is unaudited.

2023-2024 Year in Review Grants & Grant Recoveries TOTAL SITE VISITORS: IDNR Snowmobile Grant ......................................$9,183 IL Clean Energy Community Foundation (Land Acquisition) .$10,000 11,,00110,0,664545 IDNR OSLAD Grant .........................................$22,393 US Fish & Wildlife Service ................................... $10,000 Visitor Services = Total Guests Served National White Collar Crime Center U.S. Dept. of Justice .....$19,792 StarCom21 Radio Interoperability Grant ......................$8,712 968 Camp Sites Reserved = 6,603 People IDNR Illinois Bicycle Path Grant ............................. $50,000 343 Education Programs & Events = 5,529 Participants Donations: 175 School Programs = 8,366 Participants Misc Donations - Education Programs ......................... $723 137 Wildlife Programs = 3,073 Participants Misc Donations - Wildlife Resource Center ..................... $565 185 Special Use Permits Issued = 6,334 People Misc Donations - Land Preservation & Natural Resources ....... $390 126 Picnic Shelters Reserved = 6,709 People Misc Donations - General Funds ................................ $70 MCCF Glacial Park Prairie Restoration Donation ............. $73,891 MCCF via Nicor - Big Woods Donation ....................... $9,995 441 Registered Volunteers MCCF Lake Elizabeth Wetland Restoration Donation ......... $9,152 Donated 11,302+ hours — MCCF via Linda and Ralph Guerin - Bench Donation ......... $3,300 representing a value of $359,403 MCCF via LITH Rotary Club - Camp Supplies Donation ....... $2,726 (based on the national average of $31.80 per MCCF Big Woods Donation .................................. $2,464 volunteer hour) MCCF Summer Camp Scholarship Donation ................... $720 Award Recognition Land Preservation and Restoration Under the leadership of Director of Finance & Administration Andy 750 Acres Seeded Dylak, Accounting Manager Jean Gerstbrein, Accounting Assistant II 2,758 Acres Prescribed Burn Susan Traver and Accounting Assistant Linda Bryant, the Conservation 5,700 Acres in Agricultural Leases District receives National Award for Financial Excellence in Financial 1,410 Total Native Trees and Shrubs Planted Reporting for the 昀椀fteenth consecutive year from the Government Glacial Park, Ringwood - 240 plants Finance O昀케cers Association. Brookdale, Woodstock - 306 plants This Certi昀椀cate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the Hickory Grove, Cary -100 plants area of government accounting and 昀椀nancial reporting and recognizes Marengo Ridge, Marengo - 590 agencies that go beyond the minimum requirements to prepare Alden Gap, Alden - 170 comprehensive annual 昀椀nancial reports that evidence the spirit Pioneer Fen, Johnsburg - 4 of transparency and full disclosure. BIG WOODS Tree Donations Kathleen Anderson in memory of Nick DeRusha Patricia Geiger in memory of Marcia Solomon Emily Ornelas in honor of Mrs. Jill Henning Michelle Arendas in memory of John Sullivan Jessica Giannoni in memory of John Sullivan Amy Pollack in honor of John Sullivan Eric Arndt in honor of MCCD Police Karen Gustafson in memory of Carl and June Frank Sheila Readel in memory of Sharon Goehring, Marian Lang, Bob and Jeanni Baker in memory of Lucy Grimm Lane Deborah Heuer in memory of Richard Catlin Ed Nogan, and Larry Aavang Brian Baseggio in honor of Thomas Baseggio Deena Jacob in memory of John Sullivan Eileen Scherer in honor of Our Children Dennis Beaver in memory of Susan Knapp Beaver Karen Kane in memory of George and LaVerne Seiler Barbara Schneider in memory of Caryn Skjerven Carl Edstrom and Carolyn Campbell in memory of Cynthia Kanner in memory of my mom, Dorothy Berg, Erica Schroyer in honor of Patricia Sullivan-Schroyer John Sullivan for getting us kids into nature when we were young. Melissa Sherman in memory of John Field Sherman Mary and Joe Darnell in memory of John Sullivan Elizabeth Kessler in honor of Charlotte Rae Kessler GBS Social Studies in memory of John "Sully"Sullivan Tim DeRusha in memory of Nick DeRusha Judith Knutilla in memory of Daniel Knutilla Kim Stevenson in honor of Mark Stevenson Pat Dieckho昀昀 in memory of Lucy Lane Ti昀昀any Kobeck in honor of Nancy Willig Hall Sarah Sullivan in memory of John Sullivan David Dinzole in memory of Lois F. Dinzole Leah Krandel in memory of Becky Walkington Kristine Tagbo in memory of John Sullivan Lance Dobler in memory of Larry Koditek Cheryl Lawrence in honor of Barbara Schneider Kimberly Tipton in memory of George F. Mannella Jennifer Dose in memory of Beth Johnson Carol Lewis in memory of Tom Cartwright Theresa Traynor in honor of Beverly Engelbrecht Sarah Dunn in memory of John Sullivan Rommy Lopat in memory of Ward Brown Joy Valko in memory of Sharyn Pietras Carol and Ron Elkins in memory of Barbara and Stanley Ryan Ludwikowski in honor of Joseph Ludwikowski Ann and Larry Venzon in celebration of our 41st wedding Peterwas Janet Lundeberg in memory of Joyce and Bill Hutchinson anniversary St Paul's Episcopal Church In honor of Deborah Lang Susan McHale in memory of Daniel Knutilla Katie Wagner in honor of Kristie Reece-Montez Michael Evans in memory of John Sullivan Candee McMahon in memory of Don Phillips Breanna Wiechman in memory of Sandy Human Sara and Rusty Foszcz in memory of Vern Schiller Andrew McNalis in honor of Brett Tonkin Mary Gaston in memory of Alan Wilson Brighid Moskaites in memory of John Sullivan Header Image: Margie Cook Landscapes | FALL 2024 9

Foundation News First Round of Carbon Credits Issued to the Foundation for its Camp Lakota Woodland Project As part of the Chicago Region Trees Initiative’s Chicago Region Carbon Program, the McHenry County Conservation Foundation recently received 8,266 carbon credits from its Camp Lakota Woodland project, a 70-acre carbon project in Hartland Township. A second issuance of carbon credits is scheduled for later this year, with a total of 11,622 credits available for purchase by regional businesses to reduce their carbon footprint while investing in the health and vitality of our local communities. In 2021, the Foundation purchased 120 acres of land formerly owned and operated by the Boy Scouts of America as the Camp Lakota Boy Scout Camp for more than 50 years. Of those 120-acres, nearly 70 are mature oak and hickory woodland that contain signi昀椀cant stands of white, red and bur oaks, with some limited numbers of hills oak, swamp white oak and pine plantation. Through participation in the Chicago Region Carbon Program, the Foundation was able to enroll those 70 acres into a regionwide carbon crediting program which ensures the protection of those woodlands while also providing a revenue stream that will be used to further support the vision and mission of the Conservation District. A carbon credit represents one metric ton of stored carbon dioxide (CO2). Companies, cities or organizations that want to reduce their carbon footprint can purchase carbon credits to o昀昀set emissions that they are unable to reduce through other means. The Foundation's carbon credits are registered with City Forest Credits, a national nonpro昀椀t carbon registry. The International Carbon Reduction and O昀昀set Alliance, which certi昀椀es best practices for carbon o昀昀setting and is considered the premier endorsing body globally, has endorsed all of the carbon credits registered with City Forest Credits. Voluntary carbon markets like the one managed by City Forest Credits help If you represent an area business that is mitigate the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions by working with organizations interested in learning more about reducing your and agencies that will continue to fund natural climate solutions through the carbon footprint while also investing in local sale of their carbon credits. Additionally, they provide di昀케cult-to-decarbonize conservation, please contact: industries with the opportunity to o昀昀set emissions immediately, while they take Shawna Flavell, Executive Director steps to eliminate carbon emissions. O昀昀setting emissions using high quality, McHenry County Conservation Foundation veri昀椀ed carbon o昀昀set credits through voluntary carbon markets present a great 815.338.6223 | s昀氀[email protected] opportunity for businesses looking to do their part, o昀昀set their greenhouse gas emissions and provide valuable conservation bene昀椀ts. Prairie Trail Clean Up! All Ages Once a month, Conservation Foundation staff and volunteers meet for a morning stroll and to pick up litter along a one-mile stretch of the Prairie Trail. Dress for the weather. Bring gloves and hand sanitizer. Long trash pickers provided. Sign up at mchenryconservation.org/prairietrail or email [email protected]. Saturdays, 9 – 11 a.m. August 10, September 14, October 12, November 9, December 14 Meet at Mitchard Way Parking Lot, Algonquin 10 Landscapes | FALL 2024

Foundation News Doug Frey $7,000 Needed to Reach our $10,000 Goal! Donations matched dollar-for-dollar! This spring, the Foundation Board of Directors agreed to match donations, up to $10,000, in support of an ADA-accessible kayak/canoe launch at The Hollows Conservation Area in Cary, IL. We are excited to share that, to date, you helped us raise $3,000: THANK YOU! This ADA-accessible kayak/canoe launch will provide persons with disabilities the opportunity to independently access Lake Atwood—a 22-acre lake used for boating, 昀椀shing, paddling boarding and other recreational and educational purposes. This project is part of a larger $400,000 renovation being undertaken by the Conservation District at the site, with support from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. By Spring 2025, renovations at the Hollows will expand recreational opportunities to persons with disabilities and DONATE! seniors to better meet the growing recreational demands of site visitors. In Online at mchenryconservation.org/hollowsmatch addition to the boat launch, the Conservation District will update an accessible By Check Issued and Mailed to: hiking trail around the 22-acre Lake Atwood, install a 昀椀shing pier, implement McHenry County Conservation Foundation way昀椀nding and interpretive signage and install solar lights to facilitate evening Lost Valley Visitor Center cross county skiers. These amenities will all be linked with a one-mile paved trail 7210 Keystone Rd, Richmond, IL 60071 which provides easy access for persons with disabilities. 2525 YYeeaarrss!! Help us Celebrate this Important Milestone! BECOME A CONSERVATION CHAMPION For 25 years, we have had a front row seat to the incredible work being done Every dollar donated to the McHenry County in conservation right here in McHenry County. Whether it be land restoration, Conservation Foundation supports the vital work of environmental education or land acquisition, we aren’t doing the work by the McHenry County Conservation District and its partners while also enhancing our community. ourselves; it takes all of us to make a di昀昀erence for public lands and open space. MAKE A GIFT Sign up to donate a recurring $25 a month gift to help sustain our work and Online at mchenryconservation.org/Donate directly support e昀昀orts to protect our prairies, revitalize our rivers, restore our By Check Issued and Mailed to: woodlands, 昀椀ght climate change and so much more. McHenry County Conservation Foundation Lost Valley Visitor Center Visit: McHenryConservation.org/Monthly 7210 Keystone Road, Richmond, IL 60071 Learn More at McHenryConservation.org Landscapes | FALL 2024 11

Seasonal Sightings WWiilldd C Canineaniness bby Ky Kiim Cm Comomppttonon EEdduuccaattiioon an annd Vd Viissiittoor Cr Ceenntteer Sr Seerrvviiccees Cs Coooorrddiinnaattoorr How many times have you seen canine tracks on the trail and just assumed that it was from a pet dog? While there are many dog walkers at our sites, there is also a healthy population of wild canines. But how do you tell the difference? Learn several ways to track and identify wild canines like coyotes or red foxes below! TTrracackk P Patatteterrnn AAnimnimaall A Appppeeaarrancancee The 昀椀rst thing you might notice about a wild canine track If you are lucky enough to spot a live animal, it is fairly pattern is that they are walking in a straight line. Coyotes easy to distinguish between dogs, coyotes and red foxes. and foxes are traveling somewhere with a purpose and do Red foxes are recognizable by their signature red coat and not often stray from one side to another. Dogs, on the other a white point on the tail. Foxes are also skinny and sleek hand, are interested in surrounding smells and often zig zag and move more like a wild cat than a dog. Coyotes are along the trail, pulling in di昀昀erent directions when they 昀椀nd sometimes mistaken for dogs, but look for their narrow something of interest. snouts, pointed ears and multi-colored coats with white, tan and red fur. Coyotes also have a black ridge along SSiizeze their backs and a black-tipped tail. Coyotes can be 25 to 45 All canines have similar looking footprints, but we can use pounds and stand about 24 inches at their shoulder. the size of the print as identi昀椀cation. A coyote’s footprint LLiivvinging W Wiitthh W Wiilldd C Canineaniness is approximately 2 to 2.5 inches both wide and long. A red fox’s print is slightly smaller—about 2 inches wide and long. If you see a coyote or fox while on a hike, do not be afraid. Keep in mind, however, that prints in snow and mud will Like most wild animals, they are shy and likely to run away spread and look bigger than the foot actually is. from you. If they seem to be approaching you, make loud noises and aggressively motion towards them. If you are SStrtriiddee & & S Strtradadddllee walking with a pet, pick your pet up or shorten the leash and It is helpful to look at the stride and straddle as well. The keep them close to you. Do not turn your back or run away. stride is the distance between footprints front to back while | Header Image: Cynthia Smith / Female Red Fox the straddle is the distance between prints side to side. Both red foxes and coyotes have 12 to 15 inch strides, but the straddle for a coyote is bigger—4 to 6 inches versus the foxes’ 3 to 4 inches. There are many di昀昀erent sizes of dogs, Don't Miss These Wild Canine Programs! so it is impossible to give them a typical size range. SSccatat DISCOVERY DAYS: Ages 2 - 6 with Adult WILD CANINES Sometimes you can tell the di昀昀erence between domestic Friday, November 15, 10–11 a.m. dogs and wild canines by looking at their scat. Wild canines PG 16 hunt and kill their prey, and they often ingest small bones and fur when they eat. Therefore, a wild canine’s scat will CRAZY ABOUT CANINES Ages 8 - 13 (drop off) have fur and bones in it, which often makes it look twisted Saturday, November 9, 10 - 11:30 a.m. and pointed at the ends. Dog feces, on the other hand, PG 17 typically have rounded ends without fur and bones. 12 Landscapes | FALL 2024

Día de Restauración Ages 6+ Saturday, September 14, 1 - 4 p.m. (Rain date: Sunday, September 15) Volunteer! Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: Free Code: 9350 ¡Acompáñanos para un día de restauración ayudandanos a preservar los recursos naturales en nuestra comunidad! Eliminaremos especies RESTORATION DAYS invasoras o recolectaremos semillas por plantas nativas, seguido de una caminata educativa. ¡Habrá una pequeña rifa de semillas nativas para los participantes! Join us for a restoration day to help natural resources in our community! We will remove invasive species or collect native plant seeds before going on an educational hike. Por favor RSVP MCCD.me/DiaDeRes o contacto Jackie Bero, [email protected]. National Public Lands Day: Restoration Days Ages 18+ Saturday, September 28 | Multiple sites and times Celebrate National Public Lands Day by volunteering at a habitat restoration day! Tools provided. Boger Bog Conservation Area, Bull Valley @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. RSVP to Ders Anderson, [email protected] or (815) 451-8496 Boone Creek Conservation Area, Woodstock @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. RSVP to Brandie Dunn and Caitlin Benkoski, [email protected] or (815) 347-2247 Glacial Park Conservation Area, Ringwood @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. RSVP to Jim Andrews, text (847) 361-9498 Cotton Creek Marsh, Island Lake @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. RSVP to Mike Bouska (815) 759-0731 or Britt Salvador, [email protected] Introduction to Volunteering Ages 18+ Saturday, October 26, 10-11:30 a.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: Free Code: 9405 Learn about the many ways you can volunteer with the District, including habitat restoration, education, public safety, local history and more! At this introductory meeting, you will meet District volunteer liaisons and watch a short orientation presentation giving an overview of all the programs available. This is the perfect opportunity to ask questions about perks of being a volunteer, how to register, drop-in programs and important dates. Chicago Wilderness Brush Pile Burn Boss Training Ages 18+ Saturday, November 2, 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park Conservation Area, Ringwood Fee: Free Code: 9403 Take the 昀椀rst step towards being certi昀椀ed as a Chicago Wilderness Brush Pile Burn Boss*. This regionally accepted training includes understanding pre- and post-burn communication requirements, utilizing weather data, supervising others around a burn pile, making site observations, and more. RSVP at MCCD.me/CWBBT or email Jackie Bero, [email protected]. *This course does not certify you to manage prescription 昀椀re. Green Friday Restoration Day Ages 6+ No experience necessary! Friday, November 29 | Multiple sites and times Get outdoors and give back to the land this holiday season! Alden Sedge Meadow South, Alden @ 1 - 3:30 p.m. RSVP to Jack & Judy Speer, [email protected] or (815) 690-6240 Boger Bog Conservation Area, Bull Valley @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Help District site stewards RSVP to Ders Anderson, [email protected] or (815) 451-8496 with seasonal tasks at habitat Boone Creek, Woodstock @ Noon - 3 p.m. restoration days! RSVP to Brandie Dunn and Caitlin Benkoski, [email protected] or (815) 347-2247 Exner Marsh Conservation Area, Woodstock @ 9 a.m. - Noon RSVP to Len Bannon & Tim Anderson, [email protected] or (847) 669-1381 LEARN MORE Fox Blu昀昀 Conservation Area, Algonquin @ 9 a.m. - Noon MCCD.me/Restoration RSVP to Matt Tegelman, [email protected] or (224) 629-6422 Pioneer Fen, Johnsburg @ 9:30 a.m. - Noon RSVP to Pat Sullivan-Schroyer & Carla Hanrahan, [email protected] or (815) 363-8069 Landscapes | FALL 2024 13

Special Events LLiivivinngg H Hiissttoorryy EvEveennttss No registration required. PPoowweerrss--WWalalkkeerr HHoouussee,, GGllaacialcial PPaarrkk Drop in any time during event hours. Archaeological Awareness Sunday, September 8, Noon - 4 p.m. See a stone grinder, flintknapper, and other demonstrations of prehistoric skills. Archaeologists will describe how prehistoric technologies are discovered and interpreted. Examples of artifacts will be on display, including those found at the Powers-Walker House. Don't forget to bring your own Weg Thomas finds for identification by professional archaeologists! Twilight at the Farmhouse Thursday, October 3, 6 - 8 p.m. Enjoy the twilight ambiance of the Powers-Walker House by candlelight and lamplight while enjoying a fall evening viewing the ever-changing colors in the Lost Valley Marsh. Smell the aromas and see what is being baked in the wood-burning stove. See how early settlers tried to get the remains of their work done at the day's end. Art Peterson Harvest Time in 1858 Sunday, November 3, Noon - 4 p.m. Step back in time to the 1850s at harvest time. Try your hand at shelling corn, grinding corn into flour or making a corn husk or yarn doll. Witness harvest activities like the baking of bread in the wood-burning cookstove and grinding herbs for winter use. Tour the historic farmhouse to learn more about its restoration. Paul Litke 14 Landscapes | FALL 2024

Special Events F R Big Woods EE Planting Party! Saturday, October 12, 1:00–3:00 p.m. Coral Woods Conservation Area, Marengo Join us for our annual OAKtober Plan琀椀ng Party and have a TREEmendous 琀椀me! During this special event, you'll work with District sta昀昀 and volunteers to reforest the heart of Coral Woods Conserva琀椀on Area, as part of the District's long-term e昀昀orts to restore the "Big Woods" that once covered a third of our county. Plan to hike a short distance o昀昀 trail to the plan琀椀ng site, where you will learn why this work is important and how to plant tree seedlings. Bring work gloves if you have them. This is a great opportunity to have some fun with the family and for Scouts and students to log service hours. The site of this restoration project is accessible to all, including parking, trailhead, restrooms, and trails to and from planting area. SEPTEMBER FIRST FRIDAYS CONCERT Star Party The StingRays All Ages Hosted by Northwest Suburban Astronomers Friday, September 6, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Northwest Suburban Astronomer members will Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio, Glacial Park, Ringwood point out highlights in the night sky as they aim their Fee: Free telescopes at globular and open star clusters in the Milky Way, as well as at planetary nebulae and the Join us for the 昀椀nal First Friday Concert of the season! Andromeda Galaxy. September's concert features The StingRays, a local For more information, visit www.nsaclub.org. band famous for their energy, passion and authenticity. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy an evening of music Friday, September 13 @ 6 - 10 p.m. under the oaks! Rain/weather alternate date: September 14 Note: No glass containers. In inclement weather, concert will move indoors. Pleasant Valley Conservation Area, Woodstock Friday, October 11@ 6 - 10 p.m. SPONSORED BY: Rain/weather alternate date: October 12 Home State Bank Pitel Septic Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, Marengo Hallowoods Walk Saturday, October 19 • Several time slots available Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $3.00 / NR $6.00 Bring your entire family out for a non-scary stroll through a luminary-lit savanna. Nature characters come alive and share stories along the trail. Enjoy refreshments around a warm, crackling 昀椀re. Costumes encouraged! Time slots are every 15 minutes between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Register online at MCCD.me/Hallowoods. n to n a St l l i B Landscapes | Fall 2024 15

Youth & Family Programs Discovery Days Ages 2–6 with Adult Fire Building Ages 7+ Enjoy an hour of fun including a game, craft, and hands-on educational activities based around the theme of the day! Saturday, September 7, 10:30 a.m. - Noon Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard WHO LIVES IN THESE WOODS? Fee: R $3.00 / NR $6.00 Code: 9343 Friday, September 27, 10–11 a.m. Do you know how to start a 昀椀re? How about Harrison Benwell Conservation Area, Wonder Lake without using a match? Join us as we explore Fee: R $3.00 / NR $6.00 Code: 9344 the di昀昀erent methods of getting a 昀椀re going! SPIDER WEB WONDERS Friday, October 11, 10–11 a.m. Paper Pulp Painting Ages 8+ Stickney Run Conservation Area, McHenry Saturday, September 7, 1 - 3 p.m. Fee: R $3.00 / NR $6.00 Code: 9386 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake WILD CANINES Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9383 Try your hand at a new eco-friendly art form: painting with scrap Friday, November 15, 10–11 a.m. paper! Papermaker Nate will teach you how to shape paper pulp Pleasant Valley Conservation Area, Woodstock into beautiful nature scenes and scenic vistas. Fee: R $3.00 / NR $6.00 Code: 9401 Creek Peek Ages 6+ Prairie Trail Riders: Camping Out! Ages 12+ Saturday, September 14, 1 - 2:30 p.m. Keystone Road Landing at Nippersink Saturday, September 28 - Sunday, September 29 Canoe Trail Algonquin to North Branch Conservation Area, Richmond Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9396 Fee: R $30.00 / NR $36.00 Code: 9369 Explore the amazing underwater world Join us for our 昀椀rst overnight biking program! We'll ride 25.5 of the Nippersink Creek! We will search miles from Algonquin to North Branch Conservation Area for little critters and learn why they are before pitching our tents for a night of camping. so important to the creek. Participants A camp昀椀re dinner will be provided, complete should wear shoes they can wade in with s'mores! After breakfast the next and be prepared to get wet. morning, we will make the return trip. Bring your bike, camping gear, a water bottle and helmet. Prairie Trail Riders: O昀昀 Campus Ages 10+ Sunday, October 13, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Long Prairie Trailhead at Boone McHenry Migrating Monarchs Ages 8+ County Line Road Saturday, September 28, 1 - 2:30 p.m. Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9378 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Grab your bike and join us as we explore a Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9351 trail just west of McHenry County: the Long Prairie Trail. We will start and end at the Learn about the annual life cycle of monarch butter昀氀ies and trailhead on Boone McHenry County Line how they survive their 2,500 mile migration each year. Weather Road, riding west to Poplar Grove. The entire permitting, we will venture out to the prairie to see if we can journey is about 15 miles. 昀椀nd any monarchs as they set o昀昀 on their southbound journey. Native American Story Telling with Gerald Savage Ages 10+ Thursday, October 17, 6 - 7:30 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $7.00 / NR $10.00 Code: 9392 Join us for an evening with Gerald Savage, Ho-Chunk Ska Ga his formal native name, oldest grandson of Chief Walks with the Wind. Gerald will share Native American stories from long ago, tribal history and lore, and the season and reason for storytelling. 16 Landscapes | FALL 2024 Youth 13 & under must be accompanied by an adult registered for the same program, except Just for Kids programs. Register online at MCCDistrict.org/Programs.

Youth & Family Programs Slawomir Karoluk Fall Colors Watercolors Ages 10+ Sunday, October 20, 10 a.m. - Noon Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $5.00 / NR $6.00 Code: 9354 Learn how and why trees change color Earth Sculptures Ages 7+ in the fall, followed by a lesson on basic Saturday, November 9, 1 - 2:30 p.m. watercolor painting and time to work on Harrison Benwell Conservation Area, Wonder Lake your own masterpieces! Supplies provided. Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9356 Use the beauty of the world around you as inspiration to create Earth sculptures! Prepare to go o昀昀 trail. Tying Flies with Trout Unlimited Ages 10+ Wednesday, October 23, 6 - 7:30 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Letterboxing Ages 7+ Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9348 Monday, November 11, 2 - 3:30 p.m. Join Trout Unlimited for a class on tying 昀氀ies. This program Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard is not only a great start to 昀氀y 昀椀shing, but also prepares you Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9406 for spring 昀椀shing. No previous experience necessary. All Go on an adventure through nature as we follow a equipment provided and you are welcome to keep the story-like scavenger hunt! Follow clues along the trail 昀氀ies you create during the program. individually or as a group. Halloween Geocache Ages 7+ Saturday, October 26, 1 - 2:30 p.m. Leafy Dreams Mobile Ages 5-8 Brookdale Conservation Area, Woodstock Wednesday, November 13, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Fee: R $3.00 / NR $6.00 Code: 9387 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Learn about the history of geocaching and how to use a Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9388 GPS unit before hunting for geocaches. If you 昀椀nd them Create a whimsical mobile using natural elements like all, you will leave with a tasty treat! Prepare to hike for leaves, pinecones and dried 昀氀owers! Supplies provided. about an hour. Natural Wreath Making Ages 8+ Hiding in Plain Sight Ages 3-7 Sunday, November 3, 2 - 4:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Prairieview Education Center, Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard Crystal Lake Fee: R $2.00 / NR $5.00 Code: 9347 Fee: R $20.00 / NR $25.00 Code: 9382 Impress Thanksgiving guests with Some animals have special markings or colors that a handmade wreath created from let them blend into their surroundings. Join us as we natural materials found in our explore the di昀昀erent ways animals can hide as we hike prairies and woodlands. Participants and play camou昀氀age games. will take a short guided hike through the fall prairie to collect materials (under sta昀昀 supervision) for their creations. Basic wreath-making supplies will be provided Family Nature Bingo & Trivia Ages 5+ but feel free to bring additional materials from home. Tuesday, November 26, 3 - 5 p.m. NOTE: Collecting of any materials on District sites is prohibited unless authorized by staff. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park Conservation Area, Ringwood Fee: R $6.00 / NR $8.00 Code: 9407 Crazy About Canines Ages 8 - 13 Drop O昀昀 Use your nature knowledge to win ultimate bragging Saturday, November 9, 10 - 11:30 a.m. rights and a unique gift for your family during this Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood game night! If weather permits, the nature bingo will Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9355 take place outside on the Visitor Center's paved paths. Learn about domestic dogs' local wild cousins—coyotes Seasonal snacks provided. and foxes! We will take a closer look at their skulls and furs and learn how they survive in our area before going on a short hike to see if we can 昀椀nd evidence of wild canids. Youth 13 & under must be accompanied by an adult registered for the same program, except Just for Kids programs. Register online at MCCDistrict.org/Programs. Landscapes | FALL 2024 17

Adult (AGE 14+) Programs Cycling Without Age – Open Air Trishaw Trail Rides for Seniors Feel the wind in your hair! Bring an elder out for a pleasant ride along one of the beautiful Conservation District trails, provided by Cycling Without Age McHenry County and conducted by trained volunteers on their comfortable open-air trishaws. All rides are free, but pre-registration is required. Each ride accommodates one to two people (one passenger must be age 55+). Family and friends are encouraged to bring their own bikes and ride along! Please register for a time slot (o昀昀ered at 1:00, 2:00 or 3:00 p.m.) for the dates, times and locations listed below at MCCD.me/Cycling. Hebron Trail Saturday, September 7 & October 5 10106 Church Street, Hebron Prairie Trail from Petersen Park Saturday, September 14 & October 12 S. of Petersen Park Road, McHenry Prairie Trail from Glacial Park Saturday, September 21 & October 19 Harts Road Parking Lot, Ringwood Migratory Madness Ages 14+ Talk & Trek: Autumn Wild昀氀owers Ages 14+ Glacial Park Kettle Parking Lot, Glacial Park Conservation Area, Ringwood Saturday, September 28, 4 - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 11 5:30 - 8 p.m. Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9394 Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Area, Saturday, September 14 8 - 10:30 a.m. Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9395 Woodstock Join volunteer bird enthusiast Dave Miller on a search for migratory birds Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9352 stopping over at Glacial Park Conservation Area. After the hike we'll gather Join a naturalist as we explore some of the last to compare notes and tally up the species we spot. Bring binoculars and wild昀氀ower blooms of the season. Learn about 昀椀eld guides if you have them. new species, what makes them unique and how they contribute to their ecosystem. This is a Harvest Moon Rises Ages 14+ slower paced hike of approximately 1 mile with Tuesday, September 17, 7 - 9 p.m. several stopping points along the way. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Night Hike for the Health of It Ages 14+ Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9384 Join us for a short hike through prairie trails, leading to a perfect spot to Friday, October 4, 8 - 9 p.m. watch the full moon rise. Fox Blu昀昀 Conservation Area, Cary Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9389 Sites Seldom Seen: Seed Processing Facility Ages 14+ Join us for a fast-paced night hike to bene昀椀t your Saturday, September 28, 9 - 11 a.m. physical and mental well-being. The group will Location details provided upon registration. stop for occasional breaks to catch our breath Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9397 and learn about the site. This program is for intermediate to advanced hikers. Join our Ecologists for a behind-the-scenes look at the District’s seed processing facility! The Conservation District collects local seed from native plants every fall in order to restore and enrich natural areas throughout the county. In 2023, District sta昀昀 and volunteers harvested over 4,000 pounds of seed by hand and/or mechanical collection. See what happens to the seed next on a rare opportunity to tour this facility. 18 Landscapes | FALL 2024

WEWEOROR Adult (AGE 14+) Programs XXXXVV Field Sketching & Introduction to Plein Air Painting Saturday, October 12, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Ages 16+ 99..2277 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake - - Fee: R $15.00 / NR $19.00 Code: 9377 99..2299 Visit our Facebook Page @MCCDWEOR Join 2024-25 Artist in Residence Mark Cleveland in an introductory plein air sketching exercise appropriate for all skill levels. Materials provided. Weekend of Restoration XXV: Relationships Ages 16+ Friday, September 27 & Sunday, September 29 OAKtober Woodland Hike Ages 14+ Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Monday, October 14, 12:30 - 2 p.m. Fee: $25 per person / Seniors (60+) $15 / Students $20 Code: 9454 Coral Woods Conservation Area, Marengo This fall, we say goodbye both to summer and to the Weekend Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9391 of Restoration. Number 25 will be our last Weekend and it will Let's celebrate all things oaks in honor of this month's be a good one! The theme is the relationships between humans OAKtober! Join a naturalist on a woodland hike to learn about and nature that make conservation possible. The 昀椀nal Weekend native trees and the ecosystems they belong to. Admire the of Restoration includes a discussion of human relationships autumn colors on this 2-mile hike on uneven trails. with native wild昀氀owers facilitated by Sarah Taylor from Colonel Palmer House, Crystal Lake Park District; early morning hikes, and a geocaching treasure hunt on Friday evening. Our restoration Functional Fitness Hike Ages 14+ activity will take us back to the sites of the 昀椀rst Weekends as we Sunday, November 10, 10 - 11 a.m. plant hundreds of native trees and shrubs and dig up the time Lake in the Hills Fen Conservation Area, Lake in the Hills capsule buried back in 2015. Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9346 Learn More & Register: MCCD.me/WEOR Join us for a guided 昀椀tness hike with a professional coach Fee includes breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday. Several motel options that incorporates functional 昀椀tness movements along the are within 15 minutes of Glacial Park or camp for FREE exclusively for this event. Bring your own camping way. No equipment needed but bring water to hydrate. equipment. Shower facilities available. Career Panel Ages 14+ Wednesday, October 9, 5 - 6:30 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9390 Curious to learn about what it takes to work for a conservation organization like McHenry County Conservation District? A panel of District sta昀昀 from various departments will discuss their career paths and past projects before participating in a Q&A. Snacks and refreshments provided. Tree Planting and Care 101 Ages 14+ Thursday, October 10, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9353 Join a certi昀椀ed arborist to learn how to choose and properly plant a tree in your home landscape, as well as how to maximize the chance that the tree will survive into adulthood and thrive for years to come by providing the care that young trees need. History Hike: Brookdale Ages 14+ Friday, October 11, 1 - 2:30 p.m. Brookdale Administrative O昀케ce, Woodstock Fee: Free Code: 9373 Join District Landscape Architect Jen Oliver for a walking tour of the facilities and grounds that make up the administrative campus of McHenry County Conservation District. We will explore the cultural and natural histories of the site, from early taverns to its days as a nationally recognized conference center. Landscapes | Fall 2024 19

All Ages Programs Sunrise on the Prairie All Ages Sunday, September 29, 6:15 - 7:30 a.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9385 Join us for a short scenic hike, ending at the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise with orange juice and sparkling grape juice! The Big Sit All Ages Drop In Sunday, October 13, 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: Free Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week with The Big Sit, an annual, international, noncompetitive birding event. Find a good location for birdwatching, sit in one spot and count all the bird species you see or hear. Stop by for a few minutes, stay an hour or join the whole sit! Hosted by Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge and McHenry County Audubon Society with support from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and McHenry County Conservation District. For more information, visit www.hackmatacknwr.org. HIKES WITH MIKE All Ages Fall Family Scavenger Hunt All Ages Curate conservation conversations with Monday, October 14, 10 a.m. - Noon McHenry County Board Chairman Mike Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, Marengo Buehler while exploring the trails of Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9345 McHenry County Conservation District! Bring your family out for a fall scavenger hunt adventure. Bring your completed worksheet back to the program leader for a prize! Saturday, September 14 10-11:30 a.m. Nature Prepares for Winter All Ages High Point Conservation Area, Harvard Saturday, November 16, 1:30 - 3 p.m. Code: 9421 Coral Woods Conservation Area, Marengo Saturday, October 19 Fee: R Free / NR $5.00 Code: 9402 10-11:30 a.m. Join us for a 1.2-mile hike to look for signs of plant life and wildlife preparing for Prairie Trail Mitchard Way Parking Lot winter. What changes will we see? at Prairie Trail, Algonquin Code: 9422 Saturday, November 16 10-11:30 a.m. Harrison Benwell Conservation Area, Wonder Lake Code: 9423 Landscapes | Fall 2024 20

Lost Valley Self-Guided Opportunities Nature Detectives Explore this free opportunity JOIN designed to help your family spend Self-Guided Outdoor Explorations at Glacial Park quality time outdoors while learning Explore Glacial Park with self-guided activities and about nature! check out a free exploration backpack with binoculars FOX Club o昀昀ers 4-6 gatherings a year and 昀椀eld guides to help you search nature's wild spaces! and a chance to meet other outdoor- September: BEAVERS AND MUSKRATS loving families. FOX Club families receive an exploration backpack with While muskrats and beavers are very similar in many a guide to animal tracks of McHenry ways, they are di昀昀erent animals. Visit the display at the LEARN MORE: County, a journal, and District site Lost Valley Visitor Center to learn about these unique [email protected] trail maps, as well as fun seasonal animals. Read a story, do a puzzle and activity sheet, (815) 338-6223 activity ideas, a bimonthly newsletter, try out beaver and muskrat adaptations, and then head and the opportunity to join our FOX out on a hike to see if you can spot any muskrat lodges Code 5123 Club Facebook Group. in Glacial Park! October: NUTS TO YOU! As we notice the leaves and 昀氀owers changing color with CENTURY HIKERS CLUB Ages 14+ the cooler weather, we might notice something else… all of the tree nuts on the ground! Learn about the Looking to get outdoors and enjoy Y H di昀昀erent kinds of tree nuts we have in our area and do a the natural areas of McHenry County TUR IKE tree nut craft. Then grab a nutty scavenger hunt and see Conservation District? The Century CEN RS what you can 昀椀nd! Hikers Club will motivate you to hit Note: This is an allergy friendly activity, no real tree nuts will be present. di昀昀erent milestones and receive a variety of rewards! Members can MC CT HE RI August: WOOLLY BEARS NR ST participate in exclusive programs. Hike Y DI CO N We have all heard of woolly mammoths, but what about UNT ATIO with others by joining “The Trail Pack.” Y CONSERV woolly bears? Learn all about the woolly bear caterpillar with an activity and a woolly bear craft before grabbing Enroll at MCCD.me/CHC and enter Code 5122. an exploration backpack and heading outside for an Questions? Email [email protected] or call (815) 338-6223. adventure in Glacial Park in search of this critter! Become an MCCD.me/OutdoorExplorer Exploring the outdoors keeps kids active, happy, and healthy. Need a little extra help motivating kids to step away from the computer Families with Children Ages 14 and Under screen and onto the trails? What is a w Certificat Ther e ae of Achievement r oodland? e McHen man M pr y types cHen esen c ry C oun of w om t r ed b y C mo ty oun y oo . Wh n ar the ty Conse dl OO ands i e tr a UU t the TT ee r n SS v DD s. y al a uu 琀椀on Purchase a full color, 8.5 x 11" Outdoor Explorer OO Sa l mm OO v R D ha R anna i mm s v t e i ri EE ct t n e e s h XX o rr spr PP a L L v CC __ e mo ead ou OO __ hh R R __ aa __ E s E _ _ tl ll t RR __ l y l gr enough tha ee __ oak and hi as __ nn ses an _ _ gg __ _ _ e e __ __ d ss 昀氀o __ c t sunl k _ _ or  w __ y t __ er __ igh Hi s bel r k F __ t r ees e th or __ _ _ eaches r o ee m es __ w __ ts ar . __  il activity book. Complete scavenger hunts, wildlife __ es i _ Go c speci e _ the n thi __ one a es and ck noei hik er w n e.  g o o r k l ods wi Hi a ess sunl k y e a akin __ t su g. __ th m nse __ _ _ i The ne g  t. __ h or __ t. Hi __ e tr k __ x e thr _ _ ee t __ o f M e ugh a __ c w H w ac琀椀vi en _ _ oo r y  __ C o w u __ dl n t Hi y oodl __ C ands and l o k n __ serva e a 琀椀es _ _ and 琀椀on t t tr __ hr D __ ees, m ask y . i st r ee __ i ct Emp __  d ea _ _ i l o 昀昀 ye ou t observations, tree measurements, hiking adventures Ri __ er am e rn t S de i __ en g n w a __ t o u t Con y F mal r or o i e oo __ our e c omp __ xpl dl den s, and o bi serv l e k 琀椀n ands ho or  e g 琀椀f a th on e 琀椀on i Hi s b y s the a oo k k ther thi om e thr bi Di y ou k me. s e tri h a e of o tr v ugh a ct e ai earn l ar . ed ngs the  p eas. a p L Hi r os ri ai z k t e! tha r V e u i al St e l op . e p y b t c Vis y t i an al he t y o r Ce of l c  th n a Ope me t ese er n da , Gl loc Go on a lback a a i ci 琀椀ons l y a O , l 9 Pr p Pa : en 0 ai t 0 o p k r r k Mond gui a ame ie m , . R i m vie c an k i n .- i w g 5: a w t y de u 30 p s i y E d p - duc o i . 昀昀 Fr o d n Gl d er i . da m on a hi en 琀椀 and more. Notify us at [email protected] . y o Thoma , y k t n Cen 9: our aci e! sum 00 gu 昀昀 a. Th al t s W m er m i P e er de , . ood - C Mc 5: ark. r p d y 00 r s h s Cam ogr Hen t i a p k l . e, L m i am Loc r a y . wha k pgr , S e s an C a a oun 琀椀on: o tu und t d r y d ou ty gu a y H , _________ sa i C o 12 de onser s w t : d 30 , , M O h - an i 4 a b v k r : d ser a es. 3 e 琀椀on 0 n _____________ h go a p. v W a v m. e 琀椀ons: R ri Di i y t tl d s e our ge tri d , o c __ M t p _____________ wn r o昀昀 a __ og r e wher _ er n r go __ am __ ____ s e l __ ead _____________ y __ ou er __ w _____________ ____ si en a __ gn _ t _____________ __ b el __ o __ w __ ____ . _____________ ____ __ _____________ __ _____________ ____ __ __ _ after you complete at least 10 pages of activities _____________ __ __ P ____ __ ____ r R ogr __ am _____________ ____ __ ___ __ Le _____________ ____ __ ad __ er _ Si _____________ __ gn __ a ____ __ tu _ r e: _____________ ____ __ __ _____________ ____ __ __ ___ __ __ ey __ ____ __ __ _____________ ____ __ __ ___ __ _ __ __ __ ____ __ n __ ___ __ __ __ _ __ t __ __ r to redeem a prize! Purchase online; $3.00 per book. _ u o C Explore District sites through geocaching, an outdoor "treasure hunt" that uses a GPS device or smartphone to locate hidden geocaches! Through October 31 Complete your sheet to claim the 2024 Geocoin, the Rusty Patch Bumblebee! LEARN MORE: MCCD.me/CYW Find us on Facebook @MCCDCache Landscapes | FALL 2024 21

Education Program Registration Procedures Choose one of the following convenient ways to complete your registration. Payment must accompany your registration. 8Online: 'Phone: TipSign up for multiple people/programs at once MCCD.me/Programs (815) 338-6223 to incur only one $2.00 transaction fee. (Fee programs only). Fall Registration Dates Register Early Classes are typically canceled one week ahead of Registration is processed 昀椀rst come, 昀椀rst served. time if they do not meet their minimums. Registration begins on the following dates: Withdrawal/Cancellation If you need to withdraw from a class, Residents N on-residents contact Prairieview Education Center at (815) 338-6223 or email August 10 August 20 [email protected]. Unless otherwise noted, advance notice of 昀椀ve business days is required to receive a refund. Cancellations Confirmation You will receive a con昀椀rmation by email may occur in the event of severe weather in the forecast. to verify your space in the program. i k s l a k z c o P Landscapes | FALL 2024 Ray 22

SEPTEMBER Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 O昀케ces Closed, LVVC Open 2 3 4 5 6 7 First Friday Concert: Hike With Mike, p. 20 The StingRays, p. 15 Fire Building, p. 16 Cycling Without Age - Hebron Trail, p. 18 Paper Pulp Painting, p. 16 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Archaeological Awareness, Migratory Madness (Evening Star Party, p. 15 Migratory Madness (Morning p. 14 Session), p. 18 Session), p. 18 Cycling Without Age - Prairie Trail at Petersen Park, p. 18 Creek Peek, p. 16 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Harvest Moon Rises, p. 18 Cycling Without Age - Glacial Park, p. 18 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Discovery Days: Who Lives in Sites Seldom Seen: Seed These Woods?, p. 16 Processing Facility, p. 18 Migrating Monarchs, p. 16 Prairie Trail Riders: Camping Out!, p. 16 Talk & Trek: Autumn Wildflowers, p. 18 29 30 Prairie Trail Riders: Camping Out!, p. 16 Sunrise on the Prairie, p. 20 OCTOBER Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 Twilight at the Farmhouse, p. 14 Night Hike for the Health of Cycling Without Age - Hebron It, p. 19 Trail, p. 18 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Career Panel, p. 19 Tree Planting & Care 101, p. 19 Discovery Days: Spider Web Hike With Mike, p. 20 Wonders, p. 16 Plein Air Field Sketching, p. 19 History Hike: Brookdale, p. 19 Cycling Without Age - Prairie Trail Star Party, p. 15 at Petersen Park, p. 18 OAKtober Big Woods Planting Party, p. 15 13 O昀케ces Closed, LVVC Open 14 15 16 17 18 19 The Big Sit, p. 20 Fall Family Scavenger Hunt, p. 20 Native American Story Telling Cycling Without Age - Glacial Prairie Trail Riders: OAKtober Woodland Hike, p. 19 with Gerald Savage, p. 16 Park, p. 18 Off Campus, p. 16 Hallowoods Walk, p. 15 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Fall Colors Watercolors, p. 17 Tying Flies with Trout Introduction to Unlimited, p. 17 Volunteering, p. 13 Halloween Geocache, p. 17 27 28 29 30 31 Landscapes | FALL 2024 23

NOVEMBER Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 Election Day 5 6 7 8 9 Harvest Time in 1858, p. 14 Crazy About Canines, p. 17 Natural Wreath Making, p. 17 Earth Sculptures, p. 17 10 Offices Closed, LVVC Open 11 12 13 14 15 16 Functional Fitness Hike, p. 19 Letterboxing, p. 17 Leafy Dreams Mobile, p. 17 Discovery Days: Hike With Mike, p. 20 Wild Canines, p. 16 Hiding in Plain Sight, p. 17 Nature Prepares for Winter, p. 20 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Offices Closed 28 Offices Closed, LVVC Open 29 30 Family Nature Bingo & Trivia, Thanksgiving Holiday Green Friday Restoration p. 20 Days (Multiple Sites), p. 13 SEASONAL CLOSURES Closed Sites October 1, 2024 - January 19, 2025 Community Research Forest, Harvard Exception: trail remains open 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. daily. County Line Road Access, Marengo Note: parking lot remains open for canoe launch access, then closed as weather conditions dictate. Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area, west loop trail and west of power lines, Cary Silver Creek Conservation Area, East Loop Trail South of Behan Rd., Crystal Lake Note: open for 昀椀shing Winding Creek Conservation Area, Hebron Exception: early morning lot remains open Closed Sites Oct 25-27, Nov 1-3, Nov 8-10: Fox Blu昀昀 Conservation Area, Cary Hickory Grove Riverfront Conservation Area, Cary Note: open for 昀椀shing until 昀椀rst ice; campground closed. Hickory Grove Highlands & Lyon's Prairie Marsh Conservation Area, Cary Silver Creek Conservation Area, Crystal Lake Stickney Run Conservation Area, McHenry Closed Sites November 1-January 14: Brookdale Conservation Area, Paulson Rd. Multi-Use Trail, Woodstock Closed Sites November 5-8 Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, Marengo Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard Nov 22-24; Dec 13-15; Dec 26-29; and Jan 17-19: Pioneer Road Canoe Landing, Richmond; then closed as weather conditions dictate. Closed November 22 - 24 All of Glacial Park including Lost Valley Visitor Center and Prairie Trail from W. Solon Rd. south to School Rd. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Check MCCD.me/Alerts for site updates before heading out. 24 Landscapes | FALL 2024

North Branch North Branch 12 47 14 173 High Point Lange Rd. High Point 173 Alden Gap Alden Gap Winding Creek Winding Creek 31 O’Brien Rd. 12 V ande W. Solon Rd. rkar 173 r Rd. Pioneer Rd. Pioneer Rd. Landing Landing Queen Anne Rd. 12 173 Keystone Rd. Keystone Rd. Landing Landing Streit Rd. 23 Community Community 14 Research Forest Research Forest Raycraft Rd. 47 31 Bunker Hill Rd. 120 Boone Creek Boone Creek 120 Brookdale Rd. Queen Anne Rd.120 120 Rd. alley V Cherry Mason Hill Rd. Boger Bog 31 Zim Boger Bog m e Kishwaukee rm M Kishwaukee a cCo n nn e Headwaters R ll R Headwaters d. d alley Rd. Cherry V 176 23 14 47 Ridgeeld T race 176 20 176 176 31 14 FIND A SITE Lake in the Hills Fen Lake in the Hills Fen 22 47 14 90 20 23 62 31 Brookdale Administrative O昀케ce Prairieview Education Center McHenry County Conservation District manages over 25,800 acres 18410 US Highway 14 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 of open space graced with woodlands, wetlands and prairies. Woodstock, IL 60098 September–May: Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Trails and other outdoor recreational amenities exist within June–August: Mon.–Thurs., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 35 conservation areas where the public can enjoy hiking, biking, Lost Valley Visitor Center fishing, paddling, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, cross- Route 31 and Harts Rd., Ringwood, IL Wildlife Resource Center country skiing, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing and hundreds of April–October: Daily, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Wonder Lake, IL 60097 opportunities to attend environmental educational programs. November–March: Daily, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Phone Directory Main O昀케ce: 815.338.6223 Police: 815.338.6223 Wildlife Resource Center: 815.728.8307 Police after hours: 815.338.2144 LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT To many Indigenous groups and Tribal Nations, including the Ho-Chunk, Kickapoo, Lakota Dakota, Mascouten, Miami, Peoria, Potawatomi, Sauk and Meskwaki, McHenry County is part of their traditional homeland. We invite you to join us in o昀昀ering respect to the Indigenous peoples living here today, and their ancestors’ stewardship of the land. Together, we celebrate these special places, seek to learn and honor the history of those who came before us, and strive to forge meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities to deepen our collective connection to the land.

18410 U.S. Highway 14, Woodstock, IL 60098 815.338.6223  MCCDistrict.org Fall Registration Dates Residents: August 10 Non-residents: August 20 @DiscoverMCCD In Home Delivery Requested Before August 5