2024 Spring Landscapes

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From the Board President— This time of year, as winter slowly releases its icy grip and temperatures warm again, I re昀氀ect on the recent accomplishments made throughout the Conservation District. During 2023 we saw the development of a 昀椀ve-year Strategic Plan, worked with the McHenry County Conservation District Conservation Foundation to establish carbon credits at the former manages over 25,700 acres of open Camp Lakota, celebrated our police department’s accreditation and Destination Zero space graced with woodlands, prairies, Award and applauded sta昀昀’s e昀昀orts toward restoring freshwater mussel populations. wetlands and savannas. Trails and other Additionally, we rallied behind improvements made along the popular Prairie Trail, recreational amenities have been added new native gardens installed at the Lost Valley Visitor Center and enhancements made within 35 conservation areas where to Prairieview Education Center. New programs sparked public interactions as we the public can enjoy hiking, biking, Hiked with Mike (Buehler), Cycled Without Age, interacted with new audiences at the fishing, canoeing, picnicking, horseback Woodstock Farmer’s Market, promoted Pack-In and Pack-Out and encouraged our riding, camping, cross-country residents to Find Their Wild throughout the summer challenge. skiing, snowmobiling and hundreds Building on the momentum of the previous year, I look forward to seeing what we can of opportunities to attend outdoor accomplish as the year unfolds that will guide programming, services and investments. environmental educational programs The Board of Trustees are ready to help sta昀昀 advance strategic plan initiatives that will and events. o昀昀er opportunities for increased ecological health and community vibrancy. We are focused on exploring multiple funding strategies to secure a 昀椀nancially sound future for Our Mission the county’s protected open spaces, water and wildlife habitat. We will also continue to The McHenry County Conservation amplify our local conservation impact by aligning partnerships and o昀昀ering programs District exists to preserve, restore and that expand how our residents understand, connect and interact with nature. manage natural areas and open spaces I never cease to be amazed at how resourceful, creative and knowledgeable our sta昀昀 for their intrinsic value and for the bene昀椀ts are as they carry the torch to advance the District’s mission. We invite you to share in our to present and future generations. excitement and commitment as we tackle this next phase of initiatives – and as always, keeping you posted on our progress. In the meantime, get out and enjoy. Whether Our Vision you’re exploring new outdoor areas or returning to your favorite conservation trails close To ful昀椀ll our promise that McHenry to home, springtime’s promise of renewal and inspiration will soon be all around us. County’s public lands, water, wildlife Yours in Conservation, and way of life will thrive in a rapidly changing world. Where people of all ages, cultures and abilities are engaged and Christopher Dahm— Board President empowered to learn about and contribute to conservation in diverse and impactful Created by a group of ecologically conscientious citizens in 1971 and supported ways. Where wild and scenic places by the Illinois Conservation District Act of 1963, the McHenry County Conservation support thriving native plants and wildlife District began with the mission to preserve open space, and to provide populations and public lands support environmental education programs and resources for recreational opportunities diverse outdoor recreation, educational to the public. Today, McHenry County Conservation District continues as a special and immersive experiences. district governed by a seven member Board of Trustees. Our Values BOARD OF TRUSTEES At McHenry County Conservation District we work as a team, act with integrity, lead Christopher Dahm Reynaldo Gaytan Jr Ron Wieczorek with compassion, operate safely, maintain President Treasurer Trustee a sense of humor, innovate continuously, Lloyd Everard Linda 吀栀omas John Reinert deliver quality, ensure 昀椀scal responsibility, Vice President Trustee County Board Liaison and strive for excellence in all that we do. Patrick Fritz Shawn Zimmerman Elizabeth S. Kessler Secretary Trustee Executive Director Landscapes is a FREE publication. Connect with us: To subscribe or update your contact Sign up for our E-newsletter at MCCD.me/Subscribe info:[email protected] or call (815) 338-6223. Editor: Wendy Kummerer Layout & Design: Sarah Lorenz The publication can also be read Front cover: White Trillium by Linda Gurgone online at MCCDistrict.org. Back cover: Shooting Star by Caitlynn Martinez-McWhorter Photographic Contributors: Weg Thomas, sta昀昀 and others as indicated.

We Want You... to Serve as a McHenry County Conservation District Jen Eiseman Board of Trustee! Spend some time with us protecting our county's water, wildlife and way of life— McHenry County Conservation District is seeking Quincy Egert Ashley Laugal Brad Wackerlin two new Board Trustees to serve a 5-year term beginning July 2024. The Board of Trustees, CONGRATULATIONS! comprised of seven (7) members, represent the FIND YOUR WILD 2023 SUMMER CHALLENGE interests of ALL citizens in the County (people, 昀氀ora and fauna) in a non-partisan role. WINS IPRA STATE-WIDE OUTSTANDING PROGRAM AWARD Board members develop long-range plans, establish The Illinois Park & Recreation Association announced Find Your Wild Summer policy and chart a strategic course and direction Challenge as the state winner of the Outstanding Program Award for 2023. for the preservation of, education about and The District was recognized at the IPRA’s Annual Conference held in January. recreational use of the county’s natural and cultural The county-wide scavenger hunt encouraged game participants to resources. complete "missions" by exploring conservation areas, doing an outdoor Quali昀椀cations: Resident of McHenry County; activity or attending a special event, answering trivia questions, and taking Quali昀椀ed voter, and cannot hold any other political and submitting many pictures along the way, while earning points. o昀케ce and are not o昀케cers of any political party; The challenge amassed over 1,100 individual and family participants who Demonstrated interest in purposes of the District checked in at conservation areas over 5,400 times and submitted over 5,200 (preservation, education and recreation). photos. The campaign successfully reached new and existing audiences Interested candidates should submit completed applications while getting participants outdoors and educating them about the work of McHenry County Conservation District. to the County Board o昀케ce by 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 24. The success of the program is attributed McHenry County Government Center to that fact that it was a free, on-your-own 2200 North Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, IL 60098 time activity, close to home, that appealed to all ages and abilities. The challenge Interviews are conducted by the county’s Planning, also included incentives and prizes that Environmental and Development Committee, with encouraged participants to try new activities, a recommendation to the County Board Chairman. visit new sites and hike new trails. In late May, the District will launch the 2024 edition of Find Your Wild with new sticker Visit mchenrycountyil.gov/departments/county-board/county- designs and new missions to complete. We invite everyone to join in the fun! board-committees-and-appointments For more information visit >> MCCD.me/FindYourWild In Every Issue WE ARE HIRING! INSIDE 8 | Volunteer Opportunities Join Our Team this Summer — Features If you love the outdoors, enjoy interacting 10 | Seasonal Sightings with the public and desire camaraderie that 2 | F oundation News Nesting Birds comes with working with a diversi昀椀ed team of 4 | Back Into the Wild professionals, then you belong with McHenry 吀栀e Remarkable Recovery of Programs County Conservation District! We are leaders in Wildlife Species in Our Region 14 | S ummer Camps 2024 environmental stewardship and collectively, sta昀昀 / Endangered & 吀栀reatened 18 | Special Interest / Outdoor holds an impressive wealth of knowledge all within Recreation one agency. Species: On the Brink Our team members are passionate about our 12 | Spring Into Spring! 20| Nature Exploration / Outside mission and share the vision of safeguarding and Wild昀氀ower Viewing / Prairie Adventures appreciating our natural resources. Trail Clean-Up / Hikes With 22 | Se lf-Guided Opportunities Open Positions: Mike 23 | C alendars • Marketing and Promotions Intern 24 | Campgrounds 13 | Earth Day 2024 25 | District Sites Map • Outdoor Education Program Leader 16 | Special Events Editor: Wendy Kummerer • Park Maintenance Seasonal Worker Layout & Design: Sarah Lorenz • Restoration Ecology Field Crew Stargazing / Living History Front cover: White Trillium by Linda Gurgone • Wildlife Resource Center Seasonal Open Houses / Craft Brew Back cover: Shooting Star by Caitlynn Martinez-McWhorter Crawl / Sites Seldom Seen Photographic Contributors: Weg Thomas, sta昀昀 and others as indicated.MCCD.ME/EMPLOYMENT Landscapes | Spring 2024

Foundation News Conservation Foundation Protects 40 Acres in Hartland Township McHenry County Conservation Foundation purchased 40 acres of land in Hartland Township, located west of Hartland Road and east of Deep Cut Road. The property is adjacent to McHenry County Conservation District’s Brookdale Conservation Area, previously purchased land (Camp Lakota), and neighboring conservation easements, that together create over 1,875 acres of contiguous land that is now permanently protected. The acquisition was partially funded by a $197,904 grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, as well as donor support, and includes funds for restoration e昀昀orts over the next two years. In 2026, the property will be transferred to McHenry County Conservation District for long-term stewardship and management. “The Foundation is thrilled to strategically support McHenry County Conservation District’s goal of protecting key natural areas,” said Shawna Flavell, Executive Director of the McHenry County Conservation Foundation. “The Foundation’s work to raise funds in support of public lands and partnership with the Conservation District ensures the protection of open space that we depend on to enhance the quality of life for all McHenry County residents.” The property contains relic white-oak dominated woodlands, kettles and kames, basin marshes and 14 acres of wetlands that support numerous amphibian species, as well as habitat for threatened or endangered bird species, such as the least bittern, common gallinule and yellow-headed blackbird. The wetlands are also a part of a larger wetland complex that serves as an important recharge area for the county’s groundwater resources, and supplies 昀氀ood storage capacity of both the Nippersink and Kishwaukee River Watersheds. Additionally, the wetlands are recognized as signi昀椀cant by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and are listed on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Illinois Natural Areas Inventory (INAI). McHenry County Conservation Foundation Welcomes Two New Directors to the Board The Conservation Foundation Board of Directors come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Each bring their knowledge, unique talents, expertise and enthusiasm toward advancing the mission and vision of the McHenry County Conservation Foundation. Recently the foundation welcomed two new directors to their nine member board. "We are grateful and excited to have both Jack Kaskel of Richmond and Wendy Lauen of McHenry join the board. Both are passionate about our natural environment and dedicated to keeping our open spaces preserved and protected," said Conservation Foundation Board President Kevin Ivers. Jack Kaskel, owner of Red Bu昀昀alo Nursery Wendy Lauen treasures the sense of peace in Richmond, has been selling plants native and restoration she experiences when to the prairies, wetlands and forests of NE spending time in open spaces. She has Illinois and SE Wisconsin since 2000. He held various roles with McHenry County founded the nursery after volunteering College and Friends of McHenry College with the North Branch Prairie Project in Foundation, most recently working as Cook County where he started to realize the college’s Grants Director. “It was by that he was memorizing native plants circumstance that I 昀椀rst ended up in this by name. Passionate about our native county. However, it's by choice that I've ecosystems being worth restoring or recreating, Kaskel has instilled remained, and that is in part due to the many amazing services that ethos into his small business and beyond. “I hope to deepen and opportunities we have for residents, the McHenry County my impact on preservation e昀昀orts and our future generations.” Conservation District among them. Joining the Foundation board 2 Landscapes | Spring 2024 seems like a fantastic way to give back to our community.”

Foundation News McHenry County Conservation Foundation Celebrates 25 Years! For 25 years McHenry County Conservation Early accomplishments - At this time a key McHenry County’s four primary streams: Foundation has had a front row seat component in the Foundation’s mission the Fox River, the Kishwaukee River, to the incredible work being done in was to establish a Natural Resources and Nippersink Creek, and Boone Creek. conservation right here in McHenry Conservation Grant Program to help Early success realized - All told, the County. protect McHenry County’s unique natural organization awarded $55,000 in grants With this milestone we celebrate the resources. Through that program, the during its 昀椀rst year and put in place the success stories, people and donors who Foundation funded its 昀椀rst ever regional building blocks of the conservation work made the Foundation's work possible. environmental education opportunity: The that the Conservation Foundation and it's From habitat restoration to environmental Nature Conservancy’s Fall Festival, hosted partners focus on today. education, from outdoor recreation at Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area. In that Our appreciation - We thank all the enhancements to key land acquisitions, same year, the Foundation also supported individuals who dedicated their time and it has truly been a group e昀昀ort that has programs ranging from research to habitat resources to the Conservation Foundation made a di昀昀erence for our public lands development including: Nippersink Creek during those early years that set our course and open spaces. headwater stream restoration located in and paved the way for numerous projects, In the beginning - Created in October Glacial Park, known as “Cow Pie Creek”; partnerships and grant opportunities. 1999, the 昀椀rst meeting of the McHenry Illinois Audubon Society’s partnership County Conservation Foundation’s Board with the Boone Creek Watershed Alliance This work continues today because of the of Directors took place in January 2000. to restore natural areas along the dedication and passion for our natural This group of seven dedicated community scenic waterway; the McGraw Wildlife world embraced by board leadership, members worked hard formulating Foundation’s study of the state’s largest District sta昀昀, and numerous donors and policies, strategies and long-range goals nesting colonies of little brown bats; and volunteers. We look forward to new for the organization. the Friends of the Fox River’s educational initiatives that will enhance the vibrancy brochure on stream management along of our community and all its residents. For 25 years, McHenry County Conservation Foundation has dedicated its time, talents and 昀椀nancial resources to the conservation and preservation of the county's landscape and its cultural heritage. A sampling of their e昀昀orts pictured above include: Protecting the best of the last most vulnerable natural resources; funding multiple research studies including bird banding and brown bats; aiding in key land acquisitions like Elizabeth Lake; and enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities. 2255 Celebrate this Important Milestone! Support the Conservation Foundation by Becoming a Monthly Donor! YYeeaarsrs!! Sign up to donate a recurring $25 a month gift and help sustain our work and directly support on-the-ground e昀昀orts to protect our prairies, revitalize our rivers, restore our woodlands, 昀椀ght climate change and so much more. Our work to champion our natural world is not possible without your generous support. Glacial Park Lost Valley Visitor Center Every dollar donated to the McHenry County Conservation Foundation supports the 7210 Keystone Road, Richmond, IL 60071 vital work of the McHenry County Conservation District and its partners, while also enhancing the health and vibrancy of our community and its residents. Learn More: McHenryConservation.org Visit: McHenryConservation.org/Monthly Landscapes | Spring 2024 3

Back into the Wild 吀栀e Remarkable Recovery of Wildlife Species in Our Region by Cindi Jablonski, Wildlife Ecologist Ken Olsen Modern day wildlife populations face incredible challenges including climate change, habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive species, human disturbance and widespread pesticide use. Amid these challenges, a select group of once imperiled wildlife species have come back from the brink of extinction. Humans, who may have directly or indirectly caused many of the problems that led to their endangered status, intervened to save these species. While conservation e昀昀orts continue to prevent the loss of other species, it is encouraging to remember some success stories and what it took to make them happen. In this article we will discuss some species that very nearly became extinct and the actions that were taken to prevent their local or regional extinction with a focus on species that currently reside in McHenry County. Sandhill Crane Trumpeter Swans The recovery of sandhill crane populations in the upper Midwest Several events occurred simultaneously to drive trumpeter swans is nothing short of extraordinary. Sandhill Cranes within the U.S. to near extinction by the early 1900s: subsistence hunting, market were on the brink of extinction circa 1930 due to hunting and hunting for feathers, quills and skins for Europeans settlers, and habitat loss. Today they are a commonly recognized urban and loss of habitat. The introduction of the European mute swans rural species. Some 90,000 cranes now occur throughout the also occurred around this time. Originally brought over from Great Lakes states when their estimated population was only Europe for private ponds, they escaped and formed feral 昀氀ocks 25 pairs in the 1930s. Just as remarkable was that no breeding or in the wild. Mute swans will often nest in higher densities than reintroduction programs were needed for this to happen. trumpeter swans and are more aggressive towards other nesting Their recovery began with the protection a昀昀orded them by species of swans, geese and ducks, driving them out of available the Migratory Bird Treaty Act established in 1918 which made habitat. Mute swans have been known to attack, injure, and even hunting them unlawful. Increasing awareness that wetlands were kill other waterfowl for nesting or feeding grounds. valuable habitats that provided important ecological functions By the early 1900s the U.S. breeding population of trumpeter led to calls for regulatory changes in the 1970s. Federal incentives swans numbered less than 50 birds, and these were con昀椀ned to drain wetlands ceased, making the destruction of wetlands to a small area of the Rocky Mountains. Breeding populations of technically and economically less feasible. trumpeter swans were extirpated from the upper Midwest where The Swampbuster Act, o昀케cially titled the Wetland Conservation they had once been common. provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985, is a provision that Captive rearing and reintroduction programs began in 1960s. discourages the conversion of wetlands to cropland use. The Breeding aged swans (2-3 years old) were released in several Emergency Wetland Resources Act of 1986 also curtailed wetland Midwest states. As these populations grew, migrating trumpeter losses. Currently many wetlands are being preserved and swans began to overwinter in Illinois. By 2015, it was estimated restored by conservation agencies. that their population was over 27,000 and documented 7,337 In McHenry County, sandhill cranes nest in almost all District sites trumpeter swans overwintering in Illinois. that contain a wetland component. More northernly nesting They also started to nest in Illinois. The 昀椀rst record of trumpeter sandhill cranes migrate through McHenry County on their way swans nesting on a District site was in 2022, observed in Exner to wintering grounds. In the early spring and late fall, thousands Marsh in Lake in the Hills; two cygnets survived to migrate with can be observed as they stop over in District wetlands during their parents that fall. In 2023, a mated pair with six young was migration. observed at Brookdale in Woodstock; all six young survived. Recent research has shown that sandhill cranes are able to live in areas with urban development and that the probability of producing young was shown to be greater in landscapes with some urban development. If the current population trajectories continue, it is thought that sandhill cranes may become as common as Canada geese in the upper Midwest. 4 Landscapes | Spring 2024

Whooping Crane Bald Eagle 吀栀e Remarkable Recovery Historically, more than 10,000 whooping cranes once populated DDT is a synthetic insecticide Canada and the United States. A combination of habitat highly toxic to a wide variety of of Wildlife Species in Our Region destruction, human disturbance, hunting, and egg and insects upon contact. During specimen collection in the 1800s contributed to drastic its use, DDT accumulated in population declines. In 1942, it was estimated that only 22 soils, and its e昀昀ects on various whooping cranes were left in North America. A breeding groups of wildlife increased as program and reintroduction e昀昀orts were desperately needed it went up the food chain. The to save this species. But, at that time, no one knew where these stable structure of DDT allowed cranes were nesting, only where their wintering grounds were. it to bio-accumulate in insects Almost a million square miles were searched before nesting and the animals that ate those cranes were located in a remote area of Canada. insects. Birds of prey such as Tracy Mathesius In 1967 the 昀椀rst captive breeding program began when biologists bald eagles were most severely collected 12 eggs from the wild in Canada. All were taken to a昀昀ected and serious declines in their populations were traced to Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Maryland, where they were the e昀昀ects of DDT. The chemical interfered with the production of incubated and raised. Because breeding programs such as this their eggshells which became so thin that they often broke during were new at that time, scienti昀椀c research was needed on just incubation or failed to hatch. By 1963, only 417 nesting pairs of about every aspect of whooping crane biology. For over 50 years, bald eagles were known to exist. researchers at Patuxent nurtured young cranes and perfected In the 1960s DDT began to be restricted. In the 1970s DDT was techniques for breeding and rearing them. outright banned in many countries. In 1967, bald eagles were The current North o昀케cially listed as endangered in the U.S.; this opened the door American wild to captive breeding programs, reintroduction e昀昀orts and legal population is protection of nesting sites. Through these e昀昀orts, by 2007 an estimated to estimated 9,789 nesting pairs of bald eagles existed in the U.S. be roughly 700 which led to their removal from the USFWS threatened and birds. Most breeding endangered species list. Current population estimates are whooping cranes–536 316,700 individuals, including 71,467 breeding pairs. is the latest count–are Although the bald eagle is no longer listed as “Endangered”, it is part of the naturally still provided special protection under the “Bald and Golden Eagle Tom Johnson occurring 昀氀ock that Protection Act”. The Act provides criminal penalties for possessing, breeds in Canada and selling, or purchasing for any purposes, any bald or golden eagle, winters in Texas. There are also three reintroduced populations alive or dead, or any part of including feathers, claws, etc. This also that were started with the help of captive breeding programs. extends to their nests and eggs and provides them protection from The Eastern 昀氀ock spends the nesting season around Necedah any form of harassment or disturbance. Bald eagle sightings are National Wildlife Refuge in Wisconsin and migrates to Florida, now a common occurrence in McHenry County. Currently, there are with a current population estimate of 72 individuals. three active bald eagle nests within McHenry County boundaries, Whooping cranes often migrate with sandhill cranes. They have established respectively in 2018, 2020 and 2023. If this trend been spotted making overnight stops in District marshes with continues, and it should, we will see more active bald eagle nests in groups of sandhill cranes. If the Eastern population continues to McHenry County in the future. recover, nesting pairs may eventually 昀椀nd themselves in District marshes; however recovery of this species is slow. Whooping 4 Key U.S. Regulatory Changes that Drastically cranes will very likely continue to migrate through McHenry Changed the Trajectory of Declining Wildlife County, making periodic stopovers and giving residents the Populations: opportunity to observe these majestic birds in the wild. • The Migratory Bird Treaty Act in 1918, made it illegal to pursue, hunt, capture or kill or attempt to kill any migratory bird. This act alone has saved millions, Wild Turkeys if not billions of birds; it remains a law today. Habitat loss and overhunting • The Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 was the 昀椀rst law to eliminated wild turkeys from Illinois address water pollution. Amended in 1972, the law commonly known as the Clean Water Act by 1910. Beginning in 1918 the has not only saved aquatic species but has improved the lives of humans. Migratory Bird Treaty Act gave them • The 昀椀rst hunting license program was established in 1864, Ryan McDeeon protected status, but bringing them back took direct intervention. regulating hunting for the 昀椀rst time. Currently hunting and trapping regulations that protect To restore the once common game bird, IDNR obtained wild- many fur bearing mammals and avian game species are primarily regulated by state laws. trapped turkeys from Mississippi, Arkansas and West Virginia in • The Endangered Species Act was established in 1973 to protect and the 1960s and released them in small groups at 昀椀ve locations in aid in the recovery of declining populations of many southern Illinois. These initial populations successfully established animals and plants species at risk of extinction and self-sustaining breeding populations at each location. Enough to promote conservation of habitats necessary for o昀昀spring were produced that a trap-and-transfer program was the survival of those species. established to repopulate the rest of Illinois. Between 1970 and While these regional protections 2000, IDNR biologists relocated over 4,700 turkeys to 99 counties, have made a tremendous impact including McHenry County. on preserving wildlife, sometimes Wild turkeys now inhabit most areas of McHenry County. They direct, local intervention is necessary are a common nesting species on District sites and they are to rescue imperiled species. photo by Bob Williams once again a common game species in most of Illinois. 5

(Continued) Back into the Wild North American River Otter Once common in Illinois, habitat degradation and unregulated harvests caused populations of River Otter to decline dramatically by the mid-1800s and by the early 1900s they were considered rare in Illinois. Although, they were protected from hunting and trapping beginning in 1929, sightings were still uncommon. In 1989 otters were listed as state endangered, and IDNR developed recovery strategies that included reintroducing them into suitable habitats. More than 300 wild otters obtained from Louisiana were released into Wabash, Kaskaskia and Illinois River basins in 1994 -1997. Biologists American Black Bear closely monitored their population growth, and by 2004 they were American Black Bears were once common in Illinois but due to removed from state endangered status. By 2009 the state’s otter excessive, unregulated hunting were extirpated by 1870. There is population was estimated to be at least 11,000 individuals. currently no known resident population of black bear in Illinois. River otters currently live in every county in There are no plans to reintroduce black bears into Illinois, but Illinois, including McHenry County. Because the potential exists for individuals from Wisconsin and Missouri they are primarily nocturnal, sightings are not populations to travel into Illinois. If black bears enter McHenry common but signs of their presence like otter County, they would very likely be coming from Wisconsin. The scat, slides and footprints in mud and snow current Wisconsin population is estimated to be over 24,000 can be found in riparian zones. individuals with a higher density in the northern third of the state Pictured right: District trail cameras captured a family and lower densities southward. Currently, Wisconsin Department of otters along Nippersink Creek in Glacial Park. of Natural Resources manages the population size through American Beaver regulated hunting. Before European settlers, Black bear populations are expanding in much of North America American Beaver shaped the due in part to their ability to live in human-dominated landscapes. North American landscape. They can live successfully in fragmented agricultural landscapes Their dams and damming using small forest woodlots for food and cover. To date, there activities created meadows and have been several sightings of black bear in Illinois beginning John D. Kavc ponds which were 昀椀lled with in 2008 according to IDNR. A change made to the Illinois Wildlife lush vegetation and stands of young willows that provided food Code in 2015 protects large carnivores such as black bears. It and habitat for other wildlife. states that black bears may not be hunted, killed or harassed In addition, their dams often prevented bank erosion and unless there is imminent threat to person or property. maintained water sources in times of drought. Beaver meat Be Bear Aware— Is it possible McHenry County could have a was also an important food for Native Americans. resident black bear population? Not very likely soon, but transient When European settlers arrived, they discovered that beaver were individuals may cross into McHenry County from Wisconsin. In easy to trap; their meat and pelts became a valued commodity. the event of a black bear encounter: Do not surprise the bear. In colonial America beaver fur trade was closely tied into the Make noise to ensure it’s aware of your presence. Do not run and economic prosperity and viability of the colonies and exchange do not approach the animal. Look as large as possible by standing of furs often sustained the colonies' economic systems. America up straight and putting your arms up in the air while slowly was a major supplier of fur pelts for the garment trades of Europe. backing away, talking in a loud voice as you go. If a black bear is The demand for fur became so high, beavers were almost reported in your area, bird feeders and grills should be stored trapped to extinction by the early 20th century. Beavers are inside at night or when not in use, food residue should be cleaned thought to have been extirpated from Illinois by the early up and garbage should be secured. The Illinois and Wisconsin 1900s. IDNR reintroduced beaver into Illinois in the late 1920s and Department of Natural Resources continue to monitor and record continuing into the early 1950s. bear sightings, trail cam photos and any known movements. Today beavers are common throughout Illinois, including McHenry Online resources on living with black bears include: bearwise.org; County. They are primarily nocturnal, but beaver dams and lodges wildlifeillinois.org/sightings/large-carnivores/black-bear/ can be seen in many waterways and wetlands in the county. While these success stories are encouraging, our work is not done— We need to continue our e昀昀orts to preserve critical habitat for all species and promote healthy ecosystems. At a time when pesticide use is higher than ever, both in agricultural and home garden use, let’s not forget our less charismatic wildlife species that need our help, especially insects. Both omnivores and carnivores depend on insects to eat and to feed lower trophic level prey for higher trophic level species such as raptors. Insects are critical food sources for nesting birds to feed their young. The loss of insects impacts all wildlife species. The loss of pollinator insects also reduces the viability of some plant species. Mosquito fogging is marketed to kill mosquitoes without mentioning the impacts to other insects with this non-target, general insecticide. We may have forgotten the lessons learned in Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” but if this trend towards eliminating 6 insects continues, we will have no choice but to respond before it is too late.

ENDANGERED & THREATENED S P E C I E S On the Brink– Today wildlife species extinction is For the past 52 years, the Conservation 12 miles of Nippersink Creek and along happening faster than ever before. District has been dedicated to preserving 10 miles of the Kishwaukee River and Species can disappear due to a natural natural areas, protecting land along major its major branches, Coon Creek, Rush disaster that can eliminate an entire waterways and restoring wildlife habitats Creek and Piscasaw Creek. These are species or slowly because of continuous and greenways that contain remnant considered some of the best remaining changes to the earth over a span of time. natural plant and animal communities. water corridors in the state that support When plants and animals don't evolve or Over 6,500 acres of the last remaining habitat for numerous plant and animal adapt to their changing environment, they rare high-quality natural areas, signi昀椀cant species. Through the implementation are at risk of going extinct. wetlands, savannas and prairie habitats of additional conservation-based Currently, the Illinois Endangered Species are protected within Conservation Areas. land planning strategies, continued Protection Board lists roughly 450 species These are home to endangered and propagation and headstarting of critical as endangered or threatened in Illinois, threatened species such as the prairie species, and alignment with key partners 95 of which are in McHenry County. bush clover, short-eared owl and migrating in land protection, vital wildlife habitat can whooping crane. be spared from the pressures of a growing The main reason many species are suburban population. endangered or threatened today is habitat Within McHenry County's boundaries Help local wildlife by planting native loss due to urban sprawl, development of also exist three "A" quality streams and species and pollinator gardens, providing roads through migration routes and 昀椀lling a number of "B" quality streams. Major backyard wildlife habitat and avoiding the in of wetlands. protection e昀昀orts have occurred along use of herbicides and pesticides. We honor and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, a landmark piece of legislation enacted in 1973 to safeguard our planet's most vulnerable species and the habitats they call home. Marty Hackl Kitty Popenhagen Upland Sandpiper (E) Northern Harrier (E) Black-crowned Night Heron (E) Short-eared Owl (E) Dave Miller Blanding’s Turtle (E) Rainbow Mussel (E) Black Tern (E) Rusty Patch Bumblebee (E) The majority of Illinois listed species are plants, but Illinois threatened and endangered species also include 昀椀sh, amphibians, rep琀椀les, birds, mammals, mollusks and arthropods. Landscapes | Spring 2024 7

Volunteer Intro to Volunteering Ages 14+ Tiny Tom Talks -15 min Ages 16+ with McHenry County Conservation District Thursdays, 2:30 p.m. Fee: Free Code: 8917 Saturday, February 10th 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Fee: Free Code: 8858 Tune in Thursdays in February to hear Research Glacial Park, Lost Valley Visitor Center Ecologist Tom Simpson's perspectives on various conservation and environmental topics. Thursday, April 11th 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Fee: Free Code: 9118 February 15 - Bugs, Birds, & Bison in Conservation Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Farming Are you looking for a way to give back, get outdoors and enrich your life in a February 22 - Blades of Glory: Tips to identify fun-昀椀lled way? Check out our volunteer programs! District volunteers restore plants that look like grass, but aren't! habitat, preserve ecological diversity, educate people about nature, promote February 29 - Oak Reproduction in a Nutshell public safety and keep local history alive. Sta昀昀 will provide a brief presentation to introduce you to an overview of all March 7 - Hitchhikers & Ballistics: How do seeds the volunteer opportunities, perks and drop-in programs available. This is move? the perfect one-stop opportunity to ask questions, register and complete Visit MCCD.me/TomTalks to view the full webinar series. orientation procedures to get you started. VOLUNTEER RESTORATION DAYS welcome scouts, high school students, individuals and families with children over age six to assist with habitat restoration. Tools and equipment provided. Dress for weather and o昀昀-trail activities. Wear sturdy footwear and work gloves. RSVP to the restoration day leader or sign up online: MCCD.me/RestorationRSVP. Location – map inside back cover monthLy scheduLe site steward – caLL before you go! Alden Sedge Meadow South, Alden/ 3/16, 4/20, 5/18 Jack & Judy Speer, [email protected] Harvard Parking: 15820 IL Route 173, Harvard 1 -3:30 p.m. or (815) 690-6240 S 3/23, 4/27, 5/25 Y Boger Bog, Bull Valley Ders Anderson, [email protected] A Parking: 2100 Cherry Valley Rd, Bull Valley 10 am - 1 pm or (815) 451-8496 D TUR Du昀椀eld (McConnell Entrance), Woodstock 3/9, 4/13, 5/11 Je昀昀 Schumacher, schumacher.je昀昀[email protected] A Parking: 11418 McConnell Rd. Woodstock 9 am - Noon S Exner Marsh, Lake in the Hills 3/23, 4/20, 5/18 Len Bannon, & Tim Anderson Contact Steward for parking location 9 am - Noon [email protected] or (847) 669-1381 Glacial Park, Ringwood 3/30, 4/27, 5/25 Jim Andrews, [email protected] Parking: 8320 Macwood Drive, Richmond 9 am-12 pm Pat Heald, text 847-361-9498 Pioneer Fen, Johnsburg 3/9, 4/13, 5/11 Pat Sullivan-Schroyer [email protected] Parking: 4700 N. Waltshire Ln, McHenry 9:30 am-12 pm or 815-675-9004 Carla Hanrahan [email protected] Boone Creek, Woodstock 3/30, 4/27, 5/25 Brandie Dunn, [email protected] Parking: 916 Cold Springs Rd, Woodstock 10 am-1 pm (815) 347-2247 and Caitlin Benkoski Cotton Creek Marsh, Island Lake Saturdays 10 a.m. Mike Bouska (815) 759-0731; Parking: Lot behind St. John Lutheran Contact Site Steward for dates. Britt Salvador [email protected] Church 405 W State Rd #176, Island Lake Coral Woods, Marengo 3/22, 3/30, 4/19, 4/27, 5/17, 5/25 9-12 Dan Roth [email protected] or (847) 682-0475 Parking: 7400 Somerset Dr, Marengo Flexible Days Contact Steward Leahy Bonnie Leahy, [email protected] or (815) 923-2208 S High Point, Harvard 3/12, 4/9, 5/14 Orrin Bangert & Randy Stowe, Y Parking: Varies — contact steward 9 am - 1 pm [email protected] or (815) 943-6333 A D North Branch/McConnell Farmstead, Contact Site Steward for dates. Rommy Lopat & Michelle Wilson LE Richmond [email protected] or (847) 922-0437 IAB Oakwood Hills Fen, Oakwood Hills 3/19, 4/16, 5/21 Patrick Boros, [email protected] AR Parking: Lakewood Dr. & E Park Lane 1 pm-3 pm or 847-791-6767 V Stickney Run, McHenry 3/9, 5/4 - 9am-12pm Pete Jackson, [email protected] Parking: Varies — contact steward 4/7, 1-4 pm or (224) 612-1803 The Hollows, Cary Contact Site Steward for dates. Margie Szymanskyj, [email protected] Parking: Varies — contact steward Fel-Pro RRR Disc Golf Course, Crystal Lake Contact Site Steward for dates. Michael Castiglione, [email protected] Parking: Varies — contact steward or (773) 820-2767 Weingart Sedge Meadow, McHenry Contact Site Steward for dates. Sarah Hagen, [email protected] or Parking: Varies — contact steward (815) 687-2689 Glacial Park Rain Garden, Ringwood 5/22, 6/26, 7/24 - 10 am-12 pm Jen Oliver, [email protected] 8

FFeessttiivvaal l ofof t thhee S Sugugaar Mr Maapplleess!! March 9, 10, 11 & March 16, 17 Tours leave 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. every 15 minutes. Register online Coral Woods Conservation Area for a time slot. 7400 Somerset, Marengo • Hear how maple syrup was made hundreds of years ago. • Discover how maple trees produce sap each spring. • Learn how sap is collected from maple trees. • See how maple syrup is made at the evaporator house! Sponsored by: • Get a small taste of pure Coral Woods maple syrup. CARMICHAEL CONSTRUCTION, INC. • Stop by the sales tent to purchase maple cookies, syrup, candy and more! VVoolluunntteeer er aat tt thhe e FFeessttiivvaal ol of tf thhe e SSuuggarar M Mapaplleess Training Workshop • Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m.–Noon, Coral Woods, Marengo Don't just visit — Take part in this year's Festival! Volunteer Positions Needed: March 9, 10, 11 and March 16 & 17 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tour leader; sugar house assistant; tree tapping demonstrator; historical station presenter; or 昀氀oater. Note: Half day shift may be available. New tour leaders and first-time volunteers start off with a pancake breakfast before learning about the history and techniques of maple sugaring and tree-tapping. Contact Community Education Coordinator, [email protected] or 815-338-6223 to sign up to volunteer or to attend the training workshop. No experience necessary. Landscapes | Spring 2024 9

Seasonal Sightings Join us in May for our Canoe to a Heron Rookery program! (p. 18) NNeessttinging B Biirrddss by Kim Compton Education and Visitor Center Services Coordinator Springtime is the time for birds to build their nests and lay their eggs. About 115 bird species nest in McHenry County. As you hike on the trails this spring, see if you can spot any of these unique nests. MARCH-APRIL Great blue herons look very awkward perched in trees, but Killdeer nest on the ground and barely that is exactly where they build their nests. Great blue herons do anything to make a nest. They scrape will often nest together with other herons, egrets and a little divot in the ground and maybe cormorants. A group of nests in a colony like this is called a add a couple of pebbles. The eggs are rookery. Rookeries are usually located near water and are easy speckled and blend in very well. The to see due to the large stick nests all gathered together in a bene昀椀ts of this camou昀氀age are, of course, group of trees. The male brings sticks to the female and the female places them to make the nest. The inside of the nest is that predators have trouble 昀椀nding the nest. est The disadvantage is that humans may not see Killdeer N lined with smaller twigs, grasses and leaves. the nest either and sometimes step on or drive over the nest! Pay attention though, and the adults will warn you 昀椀rst. Both MAY males and females take turns on the nest and when someone Baltimore Orioles are probably best comes too close, the parent will start walking away, dragging a known for their unique and intricate wing, lean to the side, and make pitiful cries. They are faking an nest building. The female is the sole k ci injury and trying to lead the predator away from the nest. They n W builder and she creates an amazingly Ke walk further away until they feel the nest is safe before 昀氀ying t / strong nest that is suspended from a es away from the predator. e N branch and hangs in the wind. She uses iol e Or plant stalks like milkweed and weaves them Baltimor APRIL together into a sock-like shape with the opening Barn swallows, as their name implies, S W on the top. She may also use string, horsehair and grasses. F S have a fondness for barns. But they also U , y Hummingbird nests are not easy to 昀椀nd because they are so like to nest in picnic shelters. Look up at ne small and well camou昀氀aged. Usually about 10-20 feet up in a ar the rafters and you will see a nest made e K tree, on a downward leaning branch, the female will build a Le of mud and grasses stuck to the side of a t / nest that is only 1 to 2 inches in diameter. First, she attaches es wooden beam. You will probably also notice w N bud scales to the branch with spider silk. Lichens are added to allo the parents chattering and 昀氀ying back and forth Barn Sw the outside of this and then plant down as well. nervously if you are too close to their nest. Barn swallows are not very territorial with birds of their While looking for nests and watching nesting behavior may be own species, and you may see several nests in one small area. fascinating, please make sure to keep your distance. If the birds Tree Swallows are also aptly named. But instead of making a are getting agitated, you should move further away. It takes a nest on a branch like many woodland birds do, tree swallows tremendous amount of energy to raise young in the wild and take over a woodpecker nesting hole in a dead branch. They will we don’t want to cause any extra stress to the parents. But if also use nest boxes. Tree swallows take their time building their done carefully, watching nesting birds is a great experience! nest, sometimes up to a month. You may spot both the male and the female 昀氀ying to their nest with grasses, used for the Please note that bird nests are protected by law and for most you need a foundation, or feathers, used for the lining. Both sexes collect federal permit to have them in your possession. Please leave nests where they materials, but it is primarily the female that constructs the nest. are, even if they appear to be abandoned. 10 Landscapes | Spring 2024

Special Events World Migratory Bird Days! Saturday, April 27 12 - 4 p.m. at Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park Sunday, April 28 12 - 4 p.m. at Volo Bog State Natural Area Bird and Insect Passport Activity Stations Saturday, April 27 • Noon–4:00 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park Get your passport stamped as you participate in over 20 games and activities! More stamps = more prizes, including our ever-popular Audubon plush bird that sings its song when squeezed! Door prizes include binoculars, photo prints and more. Sponsored By: O昀昀 Site Activities Bird and Insect Passport Activities Sunday, April 28 • Noon–4:00 p.m. Volo Bog State Natural Area 28478 W Brandenburg Rd, Ingleside, IL Get your passport stamped as you participate in games and activities! More stamps = more prizes, including our ever- popular Audubon plush bird that sings its song when squeezed! This Year's Theme: INSECTS!" Insects are essential sources of energy for many bird species, not only during the breeding seasons but also during their extensive journeys. Insect availability greatly a昀昀ects the timing, duration and overall success of bird migrations. Along their migration routes, birds actively seek out insects in 昀椀elds, forests and wetlands in various nature areas; even your gardens and backyards. The timing of bird migration often coincides with peak insect abundance at stopover locations, supplying nourishment for birds to replenish their energy reserves before continuing their journeys. Wetlands & Waterfowl Walk Ages 14+ Woodland Wandering Ages 14+ Birding Blitz Ages 14+ Saturday, March 30, 8–10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 25, 6–8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 8–10:30 a.m. Meet at the Kettle Parking Lot, Meet at the Kettle Parking Lot, Meet at the Kettle Parking Lot, Glacial Park, Ringwood Glacial Park, Ringwood Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8957 Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8970 Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 9004 New and experienced birders enjoy Volunteer bird enthusiast Dave Miller Join volunteer birding enthusiast Dave a spring walk with volunteer bird leads this spring evening, 2-mile hike Miller as we explore the woodlands and enthusiast Dave Miller. We’ll drive through the woods. Catch a glimpse grasslands in search of as many species to various locations in search of of the birds that are passing through as possible. Can we break our former migrating waterfowl and other birds. on their migration and search for those record? Bring your binoculars and 昀椀eld Bring binoculars and field guides if that stay as summer or year-round guides if you have them, and have you have them. Dress for the weather residents. Join the group for discussion your eyes and ears ready for a careful, and the possibility of wet feet. We at the Lost Valley Visitor Center searching, but steady 2-3 mile hike. The will occasionally be off-trail. following the hike. Bring binoculars program concludes at the Lost Valley and field guides if you have them. Visitor Center to tally up our lists. Landscapes | Spring 2024 11

GeGet Ot Ouut Ot Offtteen tn to o CCaappttuurre te thhe Se Siiggnns os of Sf Spprriingng ——WWiillddfflloowewerr Vi Vieewwiinngg a att i ittss f fiinneestst Above: Jack-in-the-pulpit, purple trillium, wild geranium, hepatica, skunk cabbage; below bloodroot, spring beauty, mayapple Changing weather and longer daylight hours bring new sightings April brings carpets of wild昀氀owers to our woodlands and swelling every week in Conservation Areas throughout the county. buds on the trees. These buds in turn attract dozens of migrating McHenry’s earliest-blooming spring wild昀氀owers will soon begin warblers of all di昀昀erent colors and patterns to add delight to your to decorate the woodlands, prairies and marshes, signaling the spring walks. Then the rising temperatures of May bring even start of the wild昀氀ower-viewing season. From trilliums to bloodroot, more wild昀氀owers, more migrants and more animals preparing colorful blooms are always a welcome sight after a long, gray winter. their nests in a 昀氀urry of activity. Some spring wild昀氀owers only bloom for a couple weeks and migrant Venture out often, take a hike wildlife may stop for only a day. In order to see it all, you need to get and see if you can spot the out often. Here are just a few highlights of the season: changing signs of spring. Try In late February and early March, skunk cabbage appears the trails at Coral Woods and sometimes on still snowy ground. Spring beauties, toothwort, Marengo Ridge in Marengo, hepaticas and trout lily shortly follow suit, poking up from the still and Pleasant Valley in cold ground. These 昀氀eeting woodland ephemerals rush through Woodstock to enjoy the best their life cycles in early spring capable of 昀氀owering, fruiting displays of spring wild昀氀owers. and seeding before the tree leaves are out and they become Also check out the woodland shadowed in darkness. trails at High Point in Alden and Du昀椀eld Pond South Entrance in Woodstock, as well as Boger Bog in Bull Valley—all open to walk-in tra昀케c and parking lots open for the season in late March. Check MCCDistrict.org for updates. Join McHenry County Conservation Foundation Hike with Mike on a Prairie Trail Clean-up All Ages Welcome Hike the trails through woodlands, in the prairies and over the Once a month, Conservation Foundation staff and volunteers kames of McHenry County Conservation Areas with special guest meet for a morning stroll and pick up any debris along a one- McHenry County Board Chairman Mike Buehler. Lace up your mile stretch of the trail. Get some fresh air, help beautify the sneakers, curate conversations in conservation and enjoy all the Prairie Trail and meet some new people in the process! Dress for health bene昀椀ts of the great outdoors. Hikes are typically two miles the weather. Bring gloves and hand sanitizer. Long trash pickers in length. provided. Visit mchenryconservation.org/prairietrail • Saturday, March 16 - 10-11 a.m. or email [email protected] to sign-up. in conjunction with the Festival of the Sugar Maples at Coral Woods, Marengo Saturdays 9 – 11 a.m. • Saturday, April 20 - 12:15-1:30 p.m. in conjunction with Earth Day, Prairieview April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13 Education Center, 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake Meet a Mitchard Way Parking Lot, Algonquin • Sunday, May 19 - 10-11 a.m. 12 Landscapes | Spring 2024 Kishwaukee Headwaters, Woodstock Code: 8976

Green Living EARTH DAY When it comes to where we work, where 22 2244 we play, what products we purchase and how we see and treat our world, we all have CELEBRATION choices. A small shift in habits and practices can, over time, make an impact; Let's choose to help create a healthier, greener future. Saturday, April 20 Noon – 4:00 p.m. Eco Tip #1. Open the blinds, push back the curtains and take advantage of natural light Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake whenever possible. Partner Booths / Crafts / Earth-Friendly Activities Co-Sponsored with the Eco Tip #2. Avoid Packaging: Try to create a Guided Hikes – 12:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. 100% recyclable and compostable grocery list. Eat fresh food, buy in bulk, bring your Puppet Shows – 1:00 & 3:00 p.m. own bags. Bring your own “No waste” picnic lunch! Eco Tip #3. Stop using/buying plastic bottles. Invest in a water 昀椀ltration system and get your water from the tap. Carry a thermos HOUSEHOLD RECYCLING DROP OFF: and reusable water bottle. Get your spring cleaning done and stop by the event to recycle household items: Eco Tip #4. Walk, bike or carpool once a week to help lower emissions. • Electronics • CDs/DVDs/Cassettes • Textiles and athletic shoes • Household batteries • Fluorescent tubes • Polystyrene foam Eco Tip #5. Rediscover bars of soap and eliminate plastic bottled liquid soap. Some items may require a nominal fee. Eco Tip #6. Pay your bills online to reduce paper. Beyond the Color Wheel - The Bene昀椀ts of a Green McHenry County Every shade and hue of green can be found speckled on our landscape. But the bene昀椀ts Eco Tip #7. Use cloth napkins and dishtowels of being green go way beyond the color wheel. Our human health and viability is vitally and forego using paper towels. dependent upon the health and biodiversity of our natural landscapes and the services Eco Tip #8. Switch from incandescent light they provide: the food we eat, the water we drink, and the sense of place we enjoy for bulbs to compact 昀氀uorescent bulbs which solitude, renewal and physical activity. use 75% less energy. Replace 昀椀ve bulbs and The Conservation District protects and manages over 25,700 acres of open space save up to $100 per year. comprised of woodlands, wetlands, prairies and waterways. Protecting open space reduces air pollution, improves water quality, provides areas for excess 昀氀ood waters, Eco Tip #9. Hang a clothes line and dry your clothes outdoors instead of in the dryer. limits storm water impacts, reduces erosion and increases property values. Open space acts as a sponge and natural water 昀椀ltration system, letting rainwater slowly Eco Tip #10. Use a ceiling fan to push heat soak into the ground, while deep-rooted prairie plants create natural ecosystems capable down to where it is needed and reduce the of holding thousands of gallons of water within the soil. need for air conditioning in the summer. Additionally, our forests and woodlands take in carbon dioxide. The District has planted Eco Tip #11. Turn down the water heater over 12,000 trees throughout the county. One large tree can remove over 1,000 pounds temperature to 120 degrees. Consider an on- of CO2 from the atmosphere each year. An acre of trees produces enough oxygen for 18 demand tankless version. And, shorten your people. That same acre of trees can remove 13 tons of dusts, gases, and pollutants from showers to under 昀椀ve minutes. the atmosphere each year. Trees can also lower the surrounding air temperatures by as much as 15 degrees and reduce noise pollution by acting as sound barriers. Eco Tip #12. Capture rainwater for indoor and outdoor plant watering. While these functions are not always accounted for in traditional economic indicators, they signi昀椀cantly contribute to the County’s economy and quality of life. The natural Eco Tip #13. Practice composting to areas preserved by the Conservation District and the associated bene昀椀ts provide a return decompose organic waste such as food on investment that is tangible, measurable and essential to sustaining the long-term scraps and yard trimmings. health and viability of McHenry County. Eco Tip #14. Switch to rechargeable or lithium batteries. They are less toxic and save money in the long run. Eco Tip #15. Open the dishwasher and air-dry dishes. Only run with full loads. RESOURCES: McHenry.edu/greenguide Earth911.org Epa.gov Freecycle.org Weg Thomas Footprintnetwork.org 13

SSSSuuuummmmmemememerrrr C C C Caaaammmmpppps 2s 2s 2s 2000022224444 Nature's Preschool Ages 3⼀挀–5 Eco-Explorer Camp Ages 8–11 Is your little one ready to explore the outdoors in a preschool- In this 昀椀ve-day noncompetitive program, campers canoe style setting away from mom and dad? Send them to Nature's the Nippersink Creek and hike Glacial Park's trails, exploring Preschool to learn about the reptiles and amphibians or their prairies, woodlands and wetlands. They also play popular camp natural senses! Each day includes a themed lesson with outdoor games such as Predator-Prey—an o昀昀-trail game about food exploration, a storybook, snack and a craft under the supervision chains—and Restoration Tag, a camp favorite! Campers get of experienced Conservation District educators. to decorate their own t-shirts to take home and take part in a This is a drop-o昀昀 program and children must be toilet-trained. A healthy snack is provided but Friday cookout and graduation. Register for one session only. please apply sunscreen and bring a water bottle. Fee: R $25 / NR $32 Frogs & Friends Code: 8996 Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fee: R $125 / NR $157 August 6– 9, Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.–11 a.m. AGE CAMP DATES CODE Nature Senses Code: 9120 8–9 June 3-7 9010 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake 10–11 June 24–28 9013 August 13–16, Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.–11 a.m. 8–9 July 22–26 9016 Young Explorers Camp Ages 6–7 Outdoor Adventure Camp Ages 8–11 Here's a chance for younger children to enjoy a half-day summer Fishing, canoeing, camp昀椀re building, outdoor challenges, hiking camp. Through games, hikes and other fun activities, campers adventures, camp crafts and t-shirts make this day camp exciting learn about the habitats of our conservation areas and the and fun! Outdoor Adventure Camp is a 昀椀ve-day program that animals that live in them. They have the opportunity to explore promotes fun and learning in a noncompetitive environment. wetlands, prairies and woodlands. Register for one session only. Register for one session only. Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–Noon Fee: R $70 / NR $87 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fee: R $125 / NR $157 CAMP DATES LOCATION CODE AGES CAMP DATES CODE June 17-21 Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood 9012 10-11 June 10–14 8979 July 22-26 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake 8984 8-9 July 15–19 8983 August 5-9 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake 8986 8–9 July 29–Aug 2 8985 Mini-Camp: Habitat Heroes Ages 9-11 Nature and Art Camp Ages 8–11 Investigate a variety of ecosystems including pond, woodlands, Artistic adventurers wanted! Campers sample a variety of creative and prairies while exploring relationships between humans and the arts and explore nature on a daily basis. These investigations environment! Play games, explore, and do hands-on data collection of their natural surroundings provide campers with inspiration while making connections between habitats in local watersheds. and possibly even the supplies for their artistic endeavors. Will Note: This camp meets at three di昀昀erent locations. it be weaving, painting, photography, music, poetry or pottery? Tuesdays, June 4, 11, 18, 9 a.m. - Noon Fee: R $35/$44 Code: 8959 Every day o昀昀ers opportunities for some hands-on fun along with Tuesday June 4 at Coral Woods, Marengo traditional day camp activities. Tuesday June 11 at Pleasant Valley, Woodstock Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fee: R $125 / NR $157 Tuesday June 18 at Marengo Ridge, Marengo AGES CAMP DATES LOCATION CODE 8-9 June 24–28 Prairieview Education Center 8980 10-11 July 15–19 Lost Valley Visitor Center 9015

Summer Camps REGISTRATION BEGINS February 10 for Residents Fishing Camp Ages 10–13 February 20 for Non-Residents Join us for a 昀椀n-tastic 昀椀shing camp where campers not only learn the art of 昀椀shing, but also develop a deeper appreciation for wetland environments through exploration, play and crafts! June 17–June 21, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Prairieview Education Center / The Hollows / Pleasant Valley Fee: R $125 / NR $157 Code: 8987 Camp pick up times and locations: Monday- Tuesday - Friday at Prairieview, Crystal Lake Wednesday at The Hollows, Cary Thursday at Pleasant Valley, Woodstock Wild Things Camp Ages 12-15 This camp is 昀椀lled with fun and adventure, including an overnight camp out! During our week together we will participate in Time Travelers Camp Ages 10–12 survival skills: 昀椀re building, shelter building, tomahawk throwing, way昀椀nding, and outdoor preparedness! We'll have plenty of food Campers experience a di昀昀erent era of history each day. From for energy and still 昀椀nd time for sleeping in tents and sitting by early Native American life through French exploration, pioneer the camp昀椀re. Plus there are 2 other days 昀椀lled with exploration, life and farm life, all facets of our heritage are explored through outdoor activity, paddling, and fun. games, activities, hikes, crafts, and visits to historical sites. As early Tuesday: Drop o昀昀 9 a.m. /Pick up at 3 p.m. at Prairieview explorers, campers canoe the wilds of Glacial Park and participate Wednesday: Drop o昀昀 1 p.m. at The Hollows for overnight in a fur trade. As early farmers they conduct their daily chores, Thursday: Pick up 1 p.m. at The Hollows enjoy a harvest lunch, and more! This camp is primarily outdoors Friday: Drop o昀昀 9 a.m., pick up 3 p.m. at Prairieview and includes extensive hiking. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Prairieview Education Center & The Hollows July 8-12, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. July 9-12, Tuesday–Friday Fee: R $125 / NR $157 Code: 9014 Fee: R $125 / NR $157 Code: 8982 STEEM Camp Ages 10–12 Hunter Safety Camp Ages 9–17 Campers explore STEEM topics–Science, Technology, Engineering, Aspiring young hunters, this camp is for you! In this 5 day non- and Math–using the natural Environment as the organizing competitive day camp, we teach all the requirements of the theme. Along with all the traditional day camp activities such Illinois hunter safety course, including hunter responsibility and as games, crafts, hikes and a cook-out, campers spend time ethics, firearms and ammunition, firearm safety in the home, state with hands-on activities that build skills, foster critical thinking regulations and more. We also offer you the chance to go out into and pique their curiosity about how the natural world works. the park off-trail to practice blood trailing and tracking, setting up These activities will vary, but campers may use scienti昀椀c tools to a tree stand, first aid scenarios, and transporting your deer. As a investigate native habitats, check out the engineering abilities summer camp opportunity, we also include games and activities of local wildlife, learn about the technologies used by today's regarding wildlife management and conservation as well as an ecologists, use math to 昀椀nd their way around outdoors and archery class! At the end of the week you will be offered the test much more! Camp activities are primarily outdoors and include for Illinois hunter safety certification for free. This camp includes lots of hiking. instruction from certified hunter safety instructors as well as camp Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood counselors. July 29-August 2, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fee: R $125 / NR $157 Code: 9017 Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood June 10-14, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fee: R $135 / NR $170 Code: 9011 Police Camp: Conservation Science Investigation Ages 10–15 Summer Camp Financial Assistance Conservation o昀케cers not only protect people, they also McHenry County Conservation Foundation is pleased to provide an opportunity for protect our natural areas and the plants and animals that call County residents to apply for financial assistance for summer day camp scholarships. the conservation area their home. This week, we will learn Families experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply for up to two conservation laws and what it takes to protect our natural children in your household. Applications are processed first come, first served, and resources. Alongside McHenry County Conservation District police applicants are notified of eligibility within 5 business days. Financial assistance is not o昀케cers, we will put all of our training together to investigate guaranteed and funds are limited. conservation scenarios throughout the week! Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Download an application form at MCCD.me/SummerCamps or pick one up from Prairieview Education Center, June 3-7, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake. For more information Fee: R $125/NR $157 Code: 8978 contact [email protected]; (815) 338-6223.

Special Events STAR PARTY Friday, April 19, 7–10 p.m. Coral Woods, Marengo All Ages Spend an evening viewing stars, nebulae, galaxies, and even a planet or two with the Northwest Suburban Astronomers and their telescopes! Dress for a chilly evening and bring a 昀氀ashlight covered with red plastic or cellophane PARTIAL ECLIPSE (red light preserves your night vision). OF THE SUN Visit www.nsaclub.org for more information. Hosted by MMoonnddaayy, A, Apprriil 8l 8, 1, 1––3 p3 p..mm.. the Northwest Suburban PPrarairieirievvieieww E Edduuccaattioionn C Ceenntteerr,, C Crryyssttalal L Laakkee Astronomers FeFeee: R $: R $3 N3 NR $R $6 Co6 Coddee: : 88979777 AAlll Al Aggeess EExxppeerriieenncce a pe a paarrttiiaal sl soollaar er ecclliippsse we wiitth Mh MccHHeennrry y CCouounnttyy C Coonnsseerrvvaattiioonn D Diissttrriicctt!! Lea Learnrn a abbououtt t thehe eecclliippssee, h, hoow ow offtteen in it ht haappppeenns is in In Illlliinnooiiss, w, whhy y sshhaaddoowws ls looook dk dii昀昀昀昀eerreent nt dduurriinng eg ecclliippssees as annd md moorree! ! PPaarrttiicciippaantnts ws wiilll rl reecceeiivve a pe a paaiir or of ef ecclliippsse e ggllaasssseess. L. Liigght rht reeffrreesshhmmeentnts ws wiilll bl be e Artist Reception prproovviidededd.. Saturday, May 4, 2 – 4 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center Meet the artists and tour the exhibit! Light refreshments will Volunteers in historical ART EXHIBIT be served. attire will be available to answer questions! Explorations in Fiber Arts Tree Project Saturday, May 4 thru Friday, May 31 LIVING HISTORY OPEN HOUSES Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Powers-Walker House, Glacial Park, Ringwood The Explorations in Fiber Arts Tree Project explores the Drop in any time during the open hours. beauty of trees through the themes of Habitat, Roots and No registration required. Environment. There are countless ways to capture the Visit this 1854 Greek Revival restored house and learn more wonder of trees and their contribution to nature and other about the resident families who called this area home. living beings. Each artist featured in this exhibition uses their individual Norman & George Powers and unique inspirations that come together to form a Sunday, April 21, Noon–4 p.m. collective body of work of 2D and 3D pieces representing April's program centers around the Powers family the importance and value of trees. and honoring their military service. Just Who is Samuel Walker? Sunday, May 5, Noon–4 p.m. May’s open house features Samuel Walker, a prominent and in昀氀uential man who owned the house in the late 1800s. 16 Landscapes | Spring 2024 Paul Litke

Special Events Craft Brew Crawl Ages 21+ Friday, May 3, 7-9 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R$20 / NR $25 Code: 9003 Join us for a beer-tasting hike through Glacial Park! We will make several stops to taste di昀昀erent micro-brews from local breweries. While you taste your beer, we’ll share some educational snippets to keep your brain and taste buds invigorated. Must be 21+ and National "Disc" Golf Day: Play-a-Round Ages 8+ present a valid ID to attend this program. Friday, May 10, 4–6 p.m. Fel-Pro Disc Golf Course at Fel-Pro RRR, Cary Weekend of Restoration Stop out to the Fel-Pro RRR Disc Golf course to play a round of disc golf. Choose to do the front 9, back 9, or all 18 holes. XXIV: How Does Nature Inspire Us? Program Coordinator Nate and volunteers will be at the disc golf April 20-21  8 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. and 8 a.m.-Noon Sun. info board to give 10 minute tutorials, answer questions and talk Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood about disc golf. This is a drop-in program. Fee: $25 per person; $15 for Seniors (60+) $20 Students16+; $10 Conservation District Volunteers Code: 9133 We will explore our relationships with the natural world through storytelling and hands-on team-building activities that incorporate Native American perspectives. Sta昀昀 from the Trickster Cultural Center will join us as we discuss how nature inspires us. In conjunction with our learning, we will plant Sites Seldom Seen: Bystricky Prairie Ages 14+ hundreds of native trees and shrubs to restore an ancient oak Saturday, May 18, 3–4:30 p.m. savanna. Dress for the weather. Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8971 Fee includes lunch and supper on Saturday and breakfast Pre-settlement Illinois was covered in 60% prairie habitat. Now, Sunday. Several motels are only 0.01% of that prairieland remains. Visit and learn about a within 15 minutes and black soil remnant prairie, nestled right in Greenwood township. camping in the park is Be prepared to hike o昀昀-trail on uneven ground. free for this event only! In the event of inclement weather, this program will be rescheduled to May 19th. Join us this weekend Details and parking information will be sent to registrants ahead of the program. and make a di昀昀erence! Visit our Facebook Page @MCCDWEOR der Sny ny atti rB H olden Patrick Y Kasa ost rski Run Wild: Family Fun Run - 5k or 1 Mile Grass Trail Course Ages 5+ Saturday, June 8, 9 a.m. @Damian3 Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake Fee: Ages 5-13 R $20 / NR $25 Code: 8994 Fee: Ages 14+ R $25 / NR $32 Connect with your wild self on this run through the woodland, prairie and wetland habitats of Silver Creek Conservation Area. Summer Challenge 2024 Edition! This is a fun run—run a 5k or 1 mile. Dress up as your favorite wild animal and take a picture in front of our photo wall. VViissitit S Sititeess Fee includes race t-shirt, bib, snacks and a medal for Running Wild! CComomplpleettee C Chhaalllleennggeess MMaayy 25 25 Register by May 19 to be guaranteed a t-shirt in size requested. After May 21 t-shirts CCoolllleecct Pt Pooiintntss tt hhrr u Su Sepep 昀椀rst come, 昀椀rst served. Children ages 5–13 must be accompanied by an adult also EEaarrn Pn Prrizeizess . 2. 2 registered to run. Bib/Packet Pickup Friday, June 7; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., JOIN THE CHALLENGE: MCCD.me/FindYourWild Prairieview Education Center 17

Special Interest Cast Iron Cooking: Spring Breads Ages 14+ Bison Ranch Stories Ages 14+ ER Sunday, April 14, Noon–4 p.m. Sunday, April 14, 1-2:30 p.m. V Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Location and parking info will be sent to registrants. O Fee: R $20 / NR $25 Code: 8999 Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8961 C Learn to cook tasty Dutch oven bread recipes McHenry County Conservation District is S while learning about cast iron use and care. using bison and regenerative grazing to I Sample the results of your e昀昀orts at the end restore and manage soil health and D of the class and leave with knowledge as well wildlife habitat in the prairie and savanna as recipes! Taught by the "Dutch Oven Diva", ecosystems. District sta昀昀 and a special guest Lesley Tennessen. will discuss habitat management using e s grazing animals to create the conditions that o e R u allow these ecosystems to 昀氀ourish. S E Spring Wildflower Walk All Ages Shooting Star Plant Talk & Trek: Spring Ephemerals Ages 14+ IK Wednesday, May 1, 6-7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4, 9-10:30 a.m. Coral Woods, Marengo Coral Woods, Marengo H Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 9002 Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8968 The woodlands spring to life with colorful Join a naturalist as we enjoy the warming wild昀氀owers before the trees leaf out and days and spring ephemeral wild昀氀owers, shade the forest 昀氀oor. Join us for a 1.5 mile many of which only bloom for a short time. hike through the woods to take in the beauty We will learn the normal blooming sequence, of the ever-changing palette of wild昀氀owers. how to identify them, and what makes them unique. This is a 1-2 mile hike. E Paddling McHenry County Ages 14+ Canoe to a Heron Rookery Ages 14+ L Wednesday, March 20, 7-8 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 8–10:30 a.m. D Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Hickory Grove Riverfront, Cary D Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8997 Fee: R $20 / NR $25 Code: 9006 With new launches on the Kishwaukee River Spend a spring morning canoeing on the PA and Nippersink North Branch, paddling in Fox River, learning about this riparian habitat McHenry County has never been better. and visiting a heron rookery! Equipment is In this indoor presentation, we will discuss provided and binoculars will be available to paddling on the Nippersink, the Kishwaukee borrow, but bring drinking water. and the Fox Rivers. Everything you need to This paddling trip is not suitable for beginners. Every know is included in this program—how to participant must be con昀椀dent in their ability to paddle both up dress, how to plan your shuttle, how to read and down stream for 2 miles. the USGS water level website, where to get equipment, and more! Climate Conversations Ages 14+ Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R Free / NR $5 Join us for a new series that explores climate change and how it a昀昀ects our local area. Climate Conversations: Water Resources Climate Conversations: Observations from a Naturalist Tuesday, Tuesday, May 7, 7-8:30 p.m. Code: 9008 May 21, 7-8:30 p.m. Code: 9009 McHenry County's unique water resources support McHenry County Conservation District life, healthy environments, vibrant communities and Environmental Educator Kim Compton will economic opportunities. However, these water resources share her personal observations of nature in are vulnerable to a variety of threats including overuse, our area that spans over 20 years. She will pollution and climate change. share her phenology calendar and what it Scott Kuykendall, McHenry County tells us about climate change. Water Resources Specialist, will share Watch for more upcoming guest speakers as part of this new series. the fascinating story about water in our Do you want to learn more about phenology and climate change? region and how to help communities protect our vital water resources. Check out our web series "Tom Talks" on our YouTube channel: MCCD.me/TomTalks. 18

Outdoor Recreation L 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, DA 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 PE must be age 55+). Family and friends are encouraged to bring their own bikes and ride along! Time slots are o昀昀ered at 9:00, 10:00 or 11:00 a.m. at the locations listed below: Saturday, May 4 Hebron Trail - Keystone Road Parking Lot, 10106 Church St., Hebron, IL Saturday, May 11 Hillside Parking at Prairie Trail, 5275 Hillside Rd, Crystal Lake, IL Saturday, May 18 Glacial Park – Prairie Trail Glacial Park pavilion parking lot, 6482 Harts Rd., Ringwood, IL Prairie Trail Riders Age 10+ Fee: R Free /NR $5 Grab your bike and join us as we explore the Prairie Trail Bike Path from North Branch Conservation Area south to Algonquin over the course of 昀椀ve trips. Register for one ride or the entire series. Ride the entire length and receive a Prairie Trail sticker! We will ride 10 to 14 miles each day, starting and ending at the same location. Saturday, April 27, 9-11 a.m. Code: 9018 Glacial Park, Harts Rd. Lot, Ringwood Saturday, May 4, 9-11 a.m. Code: 9019 Glacial Park, Harts Rd. Lot, Ringwood Saturday, May 11, 9-11 a.m. Code: 9020 Peterson Park, 4300 Peterson Park Rd., McHenry Saturday, May 18, 9-11 a.m. Code: 9021 Sterne's Woods, 5617 Hillside Rd., Crystal Lake Saturday, May 25, 9-11 a.m. Code: 9022 Prairie Trail, Main St. Parking Lot- Eastgate Rd. North of Commercial Rd., Crystal Lake A Grounding Yoga & Meditation Ages 14+ Grateful Yoga Ages 14+ G Sunday, April 7, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Sunday, April 21, 1-2 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Pleasant Valley Conservation Area, Woodstock YO Fee: R $10 / NR $13 Code: 8993 Fee: R $10 / NR $13 Code: 8963 Enjoy a gentle 昀氀ow yoga practice this spring! Enjoy a session of gentle hatha yoga and a During this practice, you will be inside the guided gratitude meditation in the beautiful Prairieview Education Center with a view surroundings of Pleasant Valley Conservation of the prairie. This program is perfect for Area to celebrate Mother Earth. All levels of beginners as well as the seasoned yogi in experience are welcome for this outdoor taking a gentler, slower approach to your practice. The program will be led by Cara practice. This program will be led by Tracy Chang Mutert of Woodstock Yoga Lounge. Soos-Walker, owner of Nurture Yoga & Please dress for movement and the weather, Massage. Please bring your own mat. and bring your own yoga mat and water. S Functional Fitness Hiking Ages 14+ S Sunday, May 19, 10-11 a.m. E Kishwaukee Headwaters, Woodstock N Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8976 T Let's focus on 昀椀tness! Join us on a guided 昀椀tness hike with a professional FI coach that incorporates functional 昀椀tness movements along the way. This class is great for those wanting to work out and get 昀椀t in the outdoors. Emphasis is placed on proper technique, pacing and fueling the body during the hike. No equipment needed but bring water to hydrate. Wear clothing that allows for movement. Landscapes | Spring 2024 19

Exploration Build-A-Bug Ages 9-14 Saturday, April 13, 1-2:30 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $5 / NR $6 Code: 8967 h Does your child love art and invertebrates? Explore the world of mit S a i h insects and arachnids by learning about special adaptations that t n y help invertebrates to survive. Afterwards, choose key traits to C / og design your own special insect using modeling clay, which you r lf ul B get to take home with you. n a c i This is a drop o昀昀 program. er m A Bug Buddies Ages 5–10 with adult Fabulous Frogs All Ages Sunday, May 5, 11 a.m.-Noon Friday, May 17, 7-9 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8988 Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 9005 Join us on a fascinating journey into the world Learn about frogs and toads with a colorful slideshow and of arthropods as we explore the di昀昀erences then take a 1.5-mile hike to hear Glacial Park's amphibian and similarities between insects and arachnids! chorus sing! First we'll identify the main parts of insects and arachnids, then we'll head outside with sweep Turtles of McHenry County Ages 8+ nets to see what we can 昀椀nd in our prairie! Sunday, May 19, Noon-1:30 p.m. Stickney Run, McHenry Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8972 Celebrate World Turtle Day by learning about the local turtles in McHenry County! We will look at di昀昀erent species and learn to identify them, then search for turtles on a short hike around part of the Stickney Run pond. Bring binoculars if you have them, otherwise we will have binoculars available to borrow. Letterboxing Ages: 7+ Friday, March 29, 2-3:30 p.m. Rush Creek, Harvard Fee: R Free / NR: $5 Code: 8962 Go on an adventure through nature while following a story-like scavenger hunt! Individually or as a group you will set o昀昀 to follow the clues that are along the trail. Dress for the weather. Rocks, Ridges, Ice Oh My! Ages: 7+ Wednesday, April 24, 6-7:30 pm Marengo Ridge, Marengo Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code 8966 The rocks and ridges of McHenry County's landscape tell more than meets the eye! Join a naturalist on a journey through time to learn how Marengo Ridge was formed by hiking 1.25 miles on hilly terrain. We will make occasional stops to experience artifacts and witness a demonstration. Endangered Species Day: Be a Hero! Ages 8+ Fire Building Ages 7+ Friday, May 17, 5-6 p.m. Saturday, May 18 10:30 a.m. - Noon Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Rush Creek, Shelter, Harvard Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8995 Fee: R $3 / NR $6 Code: 8975 Discover which threatened or endangered animals and plants Do you know how to start a 昀椀re? How about without live in your community. Workshop a plan and design a map that using a match? Join us as we explore di昀昀erent methods would help provide increased habitat for these animals and of getting a 昀椀re going! plants. Collect an Endangered Species button to show support 20 for these endangered species and spread the word to others.

Discovery Discovery Days Ages 2–6 with Adult Enjoy an hour of fun including a game, craft, snack and educational activity based around the theme of the day! RACCOONS Friday, March 29, 10–11 a.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R $3/NR $6 Code: 8960 SPRING HAS SPRUNG! Saturday, April 13, 10–11 a.m. CCononsseerrvvaattiion Eon Eggg Hg Hununtt Ages Infant–12 with Adult Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $3/NR $6 Code: 8958 Saturday, March 23, 1:30–2:30 p.m. FLOWER POWER Winding Creek, Hebron Friday, May 10, 10–11 a.m. Fee: R $5 / NR $6 (Fee for children only.) Code: 8998 Hickory Grove Highlands, Cary A short hike leads kids to various bird habitats Fee: R $3/NR $6 Code: 8991 where they search for “eggs” of local birds. finds eggs and everyone gets a prize! Everyone Tying Flies with Trout Unlimited Ages 10+ Thursday, April 25, 6-7:30 p.m. Gone Fishing with Trout Unlimited Ages 6+ Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8973 Sunday, May 5, 1-2:30 p.m. Trout Unlimited will lead a class on tying 昀氀ies! This Lake Atwood Shelter, The Hollows, Cary class is a great start to 昀氀y 昀椀shing and will help prepare Fee: R Free /NR $5 Code: 8964 you for spring 昀椀shing. No previous experience Enjoy casting for and reeling in 昀椀sh at beautiful Lake Atwood! necessary. All equipment is provided. Trout Unlimited will be out to teach 昀氀y 昀椀shing basics from casting to tying 昀氀ies, and provide equipment for individuals to share. We will practice catch and release during the program. Bait and tackle are provided. Storytime on the Trail Ages 2-6 with adult Sunday, April 28, 11 a.m.–Noon Beck's Woods, Chemung Fee: R Free/NR $5 Code: 8974 Get Out and Explore: Hike to Haiku Ages 8+ Join us for an adventure on the trail as we explore with the Thursday, April 18, 5-6:30 p.m. book "You Can Be a Nature Detective!" What will we discover as Hickory Grove, Cary we explore nature's secrets on the hiking trail? Join us and 昀椀nd Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8981 out! The hike includes exploration activities and observing the wildlife around us. We continue our Get Out and Explore series with a hike to serve as inspiration for writing nature-themed haikus. Learn Wild昀氀owers and Watercolors Ages 10+ about the very 昀椀rst haiku ever written, a short history of haikus, Saturday, May 4, Noon-1:30 p.m. and how to write your own. Haikus written on this day will be Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake featured on Earth Day! Notebooks and pencils provided. Fee: R $5 / NR $6 Code: 8969 Family STEM Challenge Ages 7+ Join us as we learn spring wild昀氀ower identi昀椀cation, paired Saturday, April 27, 10:30 a.m. - Noon with a lesson on basic watercolor painting. We will each Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake choose a wild昀氀ower to paint as part of a homemade greeting Fee: R $3 / NR $6 Code: 8990 card perfect for Mother's Day, an upcoming birthday or even Solve outdoor STEM challenges with the whole family! just for yourself! Participants will complete tasks, from building a small bridge to constructing a bird's nest, while using natural materials. Choose a challenge or two and blend fun with learning, teamwork, creativity and problem-solving skills! Please have at least one adult per four children for supervisory purposes. Landscapes | Spring 2024 21

Adventure s es N a n n Lost Valley re B / es h reec B Nature Detectives s ' n a m h c t Self-Guided Outdoor Explorations at Glacial Park Du Come to the Lost Valley Visitor Center and 昀椀nd self-guided activities to take with you as you explore Glacial Park. Check out a free exploration backpack with binoculars and 昀椀eld guides to help you search nature's wild spaces! March: Animal Homes Learn who lives in various animal homes in our conservation areas, and how they build and use their homes to stay safe, warm and raise their young. Then hit the trails and see if you can spot any animal homes for yourself! April: Signs of Spring Learn some local signs of spring so you can track the progression of spring events in our 昀氀ora and fauna. Learn the basics and keep an eye out for the signs of spring as the season progresses. You might be surprised at just how quickly nature changes with the warmer weather! May: Wild Babies From ducklings to fawns to more unique baby names like poult or cygnet, learn the names for local baby animals and match them to their adult forms while learning fun facts about these amazing little creatures. Then hike the trails to see if you can spot any wildlife babies and apply what you learned! Century Ages 14+ Hikers Club  Become an Looking to get outdoors and enjoy the natural areas of McHenry County Conservation District? The Century Hikers Exploring the outdoors will motivate you to hit di昀昀erent milestones and receive a keeps kids active, happy, variety of rewards! Members can participate in exclusive and healthy. Need a little programs. Hike with others by joining “The Trail Pack.” Families with Children Age 14 and Under extra help motivating Enroll online at MCCD.me/Registration, enter Code 5122. kids to step away from the computer screen and onto the trails? Questions? 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Four guides the f o tion he lica of t on cati bli ounty pub pu he A C t A t f c ounty o tri tion enry s C lica cH i pub A publication of the enry M cH A ct M tri ion D g s at r i ounty oion D C enry erv ict. H McHenry County r at c t M are available for the two-mile Deerpath Trail ons serv rg ct Di o stri C ons ict. i C Distr ation D Conservation District .MCC onserv C .MCC rg www www District.o www.MCCDistrict.org .MCC interpretive loop that begins at the Visitor www For more information, please contact McHenry County Conservation District 18410 U.S. Highway 14 ct nta t o ac se c a Woodstock, IL 60098 cont e se pl a n, t ic , ple o tr ti s tion a i D orma rm ict n o (815) 338-6223 io inf n Distr t a e inf atio rv r rv e Center parking lot: Geology—points out o se ns For more m n r Co onty Co y Fu Co 4 www.MCCDistrict.org 14 ry t 1 ay ay Count cHen tac ry hw w M g i h H g en on . i S . H c 10 U .S. McH 184 t U8 009 8 lease ric 10 p 6 09 4 IL 0 8 , , 6 1 ck L I ion sto d o k, o at on Dist W  m ti oc st va 23 or 62 f 38- ood W 23 in onser 5) 3 e 62 - 14 C (81 or y y org338 m ) ct. 15 or ount hwa istri g 8 r D ( o F C CC ct. y .M ri nr w st e ww i 60098 L McH I .MCCD w glacial landforms and explains the Ice Age and k, 18410 U.S. Hig w w oodstoc 6223 W - 338 t.org (815) Distric w.MCC Here is a free opportunity designed to help your family spend quality time outdoors ww how it a昀昀ected what is now Glacial Park; Cultural History— while learning about nature! FOX Club families receive an exploration backpack, points out clues of previous residents and explains what parts Conservation District site and trail maps, fun seasonal activity ideas, a bimonthly of our heritage the Conservation District hopes to preserve; newsletter, and the opportunity to join our Fox Club Facebook Group. The club o昀昀ers Plant Life—de昀椀nes certain plant communities and their six organized gatherings a year, hundreds of outdoor exploration ideas, and a chance importance; Wildlife—increases your understanding and to meet other outdoor-loving families. For more information call (815) 338-6223. appreciation of our native wildlife residents and how we help Code 5123. them continue to thrive. 22

MARCH Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Festival of the Sugar Maples, p. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Festival of the Festival of the Festival of the Sugar Maples, p. 9 Sugar Maples, p. 9 Sugar Maples, p. 9 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Festival of the Paddling McHenry County, Conservation Egg Hunt, Sugar Maples, p. 9 p. 18 p. 21 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Discovery Days: Wetlands & Waterfowl Raccoons, p. 21 Walk, p. 11 31 Letterboxing, p. 20 APRIL Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 rd District 's 53 Anniversary 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Grounding Yoga & Partial Eclipse of the Sun, Introduction to Volunteering, Discovery Days: Meditation, p. 19 p. 16 p. 8 Spring Has Sprung, p.21 Build-A-Bug, p. 20 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Cast Iron Cooking: Get Out and Explore: Star Party, p. 16 Earth Day Celebration, p. 13 Spring Breads, p. 18 Hike to Haiku, p. 21 Weekend of Restoration, p. 17 Bison Ranch Stories, p. 18 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Living History: Rocks, Ridges, Ice Oh My!, Tying Flies with Trout World Migratory Norman & George Powers, p. 20 Unlimited, p. 21 Bird Days!, p. 11 p. 16 Grateful Yoga, p. 19 Woodland Wandering, p. 11 Prairie Trail Riders, p. 19 Family STEM Challenge, p. 21 28 29 30 Storytime on the Trail, p. 19 Landscapes | Spring 2024 23

MAY Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 Spring Wildflower Walk, Craft Brew Crawl, p. 17 Cycling Without Age, p. 19 p. 18 Prairie Trail Riders, p. 19 Talk & Trek Spring Ephemerals, p. 18 Wildflowers and Watercolors, p. 21 Art Exhibit: Exploration in Fiber Arts Shay Cooper with Artist Reception, p. 16 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Bug Buddies, p. 20 Climate Conversations: National "Disc" Golf Day: Cycling Without Age, p. 19 Living History: Who is Water Resources, p. 18 Play-a-Round, p. 17 Prairie Trail Riders, p. 19 Samuel Walker? p. 16 Discovery Days: Flower Birding Blitz, p. 11 Gone Fishing with Trout Power, p. 21 Unlimited, p. 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Endangered Species Day: Canoe to a Heron Rookery, p. 18 Be a Hero!, p. 20 Cycling Without Age, p. 19 Fabulous Frogs, p. 20 Prairie Trail Riders, p. 19 Fire Building, p. 20 Sites Seldom Seen: Bystricky Prairie, p. 17 19 21 22 23 24 25 Functional Fitness Hike, p. 19 Climate Conversations: Find Your Wild Summer Turtles of McHenry County, Observations from a Challenge Begins p. 20 Naturalist, p. 18 Prairie Trail Riders, p. 19 Jessica Fine昀椀eld Memorial Day  26 27 28 29 30 31 District Offices Closed Lost Valley Visitor Center Open Campgrounds • Firewood is available to purchase at time of reservation for $7/bundle (apx. 10 pcs) • Group Campgrounds are open April – November. For more information visit • Thomas Woods open for winter camping November–March. MCCD.me/Reservations. Reservations are made online only at MCCD.me/Reservations and require one week notice (exception: Thomas Woods Campground—see right). Individual Camp Sites Cancellations up to two weeks prior your reservation will receive a 90% refund. Thomas Woods, in Marengo Ridge No refunds issued for cancellations less than two weeks from the reservation date. Open April–October, Weekends Only All reservations are subject to a $2 administrative fee. Call 815.338.6223 for weekday or special use permit location Person Parking Resident / Non-resident Holiday Surcharge* Advance reservations are not required for Capacity Capacity per night per night Thomas Woods. Camp sites are 昀椀rst come, 昀椀rst served for last minute camping plans, until full. Rush Creek – 20501 McGuire Rd., Harvard Exclusive Use 1-100 20 $55 / $90 $20 / $30 If you wish to secure a site, make advance Beck’s Woods – 5940 N Pagles Rd., Chemung reservations online at MCCD.me/Reservations with a credit card until noon on the Wednesday 1-25 6 $25 / $50 $10 / $20 prior to the upcoming weekend. Payment by Marengo Ridge – 2411 N Route 23, Marengo credit card, cash or check is accepted on site. Exclusive Use 1-100 18 $55 / $90 $20 / $30 Resident / Non-resident per site, per night Hickory Grove – 500 Hickory Nut Grove Lane, Cary Non-electric $20 / $25 Riverfront 1-25 5 $25 / $50 $10 / $20 Electric, RV only $25 / $35 The Hollows – 3804 U.S. Hwy. 14, Cary Holiday surcharge per night* $2 / $5 Large Area 1-100 50 $45 / $90 $20 / $30 Overnight Cyclist Camping Small A 1-40 50 $25 / $50 $10 / $20 North Branch, in Richmond; April–December Small B 1-40 50 $25 / $50 $10 / $20 $10/tent. Permit required. No formal amenities. *Holiday surcharge fees apply. Two night minimum applies to holiday weekends. See MCCD.me/Camp for guidelines. 24 Landscapes | Spring 2024

Last updated: July 2020 ELEVATION 700 750 800 850 900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200 Recreational Trails Open Sites Protected Areas FeetaboveSeaLevel Brookdale Administrative O昀케ce Prairieview Education Center McHenry County Conservation District manages over 25,700 acres 18410 US Highway 14 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 of open space graced with woodlands, wetlands and prairies. Woodstock, IL 60098 815.338.6223 Trails and other recreational amenities have been added within 815.338.6223 September–May: Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 35 conservation areas where the public can enjoy hiking, biking, June–August: Mon.–Thurs., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. fishing, paddling, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, cross- country skiing, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing and hundreds of opportunities to attend outdoor environmental educational Lost Valley Visitor Center programs and events. Route 31 and Harts Rd., Ringwood, IL Wildlife Resource Center 815.338.6223 815.728.8307 November–March: Daily, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. April–October: Daily, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Police Report suspicious activity: 815.338.6223 If no answer call: 815.338.2144

18410 U.S. Highway 14, Woodstock, IL 60098 815.338.6223  MCCDistrict.org Socialize with us and other outdoor enthusiasts just like you! #DiscoverMCCD In Home Delivery Requested Before February 6 Spring Special Events Festival of the Sugar Maples Saturday, March 9–Monday, March 11 Saturday, March 16–Sunday, March 17 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Daily • Coral Woods, Marengo Earth Day Celebration Saturday, April 20, Noon–4 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake World Migratory Bird Days Saturday, April 27–Sunday, Noon–4 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood