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 bene昀椀ts to present and From the Board President— future generations. This fall marks my third year at McHenry County Conservation District Our Vision and I can tell you that every day I’m impressed, surprised, and moved by the people I meet and the stories I hear. I’m proud to be a part of this To ful昀椀ll our promise that McHenry organization and work with such a dedicated, professional sta昀昀 and board of trustees. County’s public lands, water, wildlife Earlier this year, the Board of Trustees and sta昀昀 worked collectively to prepare and accept and way of life will thrive in a rapidly the new 2023–2028 Strategic Plan that will guide the priorities, time and resources of the changing world. Where people of organization over the next 昀椀ve years. Broadly, these initiatives outline the steps to accomplish all ages, cultures and abilities are projects, programs and improvements under three signi昀椀cant pillars: Healthy Landscapes, engaged and empowered to learn People and Wildlife; Visitor Experience; and Organizational Excellence. In many areas, about and contribute to conservation initiatives go above and beyond what is currently o昀昀ered including fostering partnerships, in diverse and impactful ways. breaking bilingual barriers, diversifying audiences, developing working landscapes and Where wild and scenic places diversifying revenue. As an agency, we take great personal pride in our shared stewardship support thriving native plants and and management of over 25,700 acres of public lands entrusted to us for protection and preservation for the bene昀椀t of current and future generations. wildlife populations and public lands support diverse outdoor recreation, In McHenry County we are fortunate to live in harmony among the wide-open spaces that educational and immersive support wildlife and outdoor recreation right outside our back door. Residents do not need experiences. to travel great distances to 昀椀nd adventure and unique, one-of-a-kind places that are alive with wonder and excitement. While these public lands provide habitat for native plants and wildlife, they also connect residents to the natural world, are a source of inspiration, and allow for BOARD OF TRUSTEES countless opportunities to learn, discover and recreate. Christopher Dahm This winter, don’t let yourself hibernate! Get outside and experience why our conservation President areas are special places, and so important to our quality of life in McHenry County! Lloyd Everard Yours in Conservation, Vice President Patrick Fritz Secretary Christopher Dahm— Board President American with Disabilities Act Reynaldo Gaytan Jr. Landscapes is a McHenry County Conservation District Treasurer FREE publication. welcomes the participation of all To subscribe or individuals in our programs, including Linda 吀栀omas those with disabilities. We are fully committed to update your contact complying with the ADA and providing reasonable Trustee info: email MCCD@ accommodations to facilitate participation in our MCCDistrict.org programs. It is the responsibility of participants, Shawn Zimmerman or call (815) 338-6223. parents/guardians to contact the District to make Trustee arrangements for any accommodation at the time of The publication can registration; no later than two weeks prior to the start Ron Wieczorek also be read online of a program or special event. at MCCDistrict.org. Trustee Safety is a Priority Safety is a top priority to John Reinert all who visit our sites and facilities. If, while on County Board Liaison Editor: Wendy Kummerer a Conservation District site, you see or witness Layout & Design: Sarah Lorenz something that appears to be unsafe, please call the Elizabeth S. Kessler Photographic contributors: Weg Thomas, sta昀昀 Conservation District and let us know (815) 338-6223. Executive Director and others as indicated. Photography Participants in McHenry County Front cover: Raccoon By Tracy Mathesius Conservation District programs and visitors at our Upcoming Board Meetings Back cover: Winter Prairie by Pierre Steygers sites may be photographed, videotaped or 昀椀lmed for use in District publications, promotions, and on the Public sessions vary, check website for District web site or social media channels. All dates. Agendas posted at MCCDistrict.org. Connect with us: photos taken on District property are the sole Sign up for our E-newsletter at property of the District. Brookdale Administrative O昀케ces MCCD.me/Subscribe 18410 US Hwy. 14, Woodstock (815) 338-6223 Help us Update Our Mailing List! To update your address, request an E-version or to unsubscribe, Landscapes | Winter 2023 please email [email protected] and let us know your changes or updates.