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