Winter 2023 Landscapes

McHenry County Conservation District Landscapes Winter 2023-24 Candlelight Ski and Hike What's Inside? December 15 & 16 Harrison Benwell, Wonder Lake Get Your Jingle On January 12 & 13 Marengo Ridge, Marengo February 9 & 10 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal LakeCandlelight Skis In Search of Eagles Winter Activities

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

WHAT'S INSIDE 2 | In The News What to Know When it Snows 4 | Foundation News Enjoy Conservation District sites all winter long! We work hard to keep many sites 6 | Volunteer Opportunities open—no matter what Mother Nature throws our way. 8 | Seasonal Sightings During the Winter We Plow, De-ice & Shovel 14 Sites 9 | Winter Activities The District does its best to accommodate McHenry County residents 10-12 | Special Events and their outdoor recreational pursuits. 14-17 | No Time to Hibernate 14 Open Sites + 11 Sites Where Walk-In Tra昀케c Allowed = 25 Places to Play!! Cool Kids Winter Fun Winter Explorations Sites Open Year Round 18 | At-a-Glance Calendar Brookdale, Woodstock Marengo Ridge, Marengo 20 | Seasonal Sight Closures Coral Woods, Marengo Pleasant Valley, Woodstock 21 | All Sites Map Fel-Pro RRR, Cary Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Glacial Park, Ringwood Rush Creek, Harvard Harrison Benwell, Wonder Lake Silver Creek, Crystal Lake Hickory Grove Highlands, Cary Stickney Run, McHenry Visit us online at MCCDistrict.org Lyons Prairie & Marsh, Cary The Hollows, Cary to learn more about our mission, current happenings, programs and outdoor adventures. Closed for the Season? Not So Fast! Due to sporadic bouts of snow and warming trends, the 11 sites where parking lots do not get plowed, but are open to pedestrian tra昀케c, gates will reopen if snow recedes. However, after Jan. 2 parking lots will close for the season. Visit MCCD.me/Closures for up-to-date site alerts and alternative places to visit. What to Expect after a Winter Storm — Depending upon the time of day it snows…how long it snows… and how much blowing and drifting occurs… How Long Until a Site is Open? 1–2” of snow * * 4–10" of snow * * 10+" of snow 1 day or less 1–2 days 2–3 days Up to 4 days All Sites & Visitors Centers Ski Trails Packed & Tracked Facilities Plowed O昀케ces Priority Landscapes | Winter 2023-24

In the News Collaborating and Connecting Community Mussels - The Silent Storytellers to Conservation Over the past three years, the collective initiatives of McHenry County Conservation District and its multiple community partners signi昀椀cantly expanded outreach e昀昀orts to connect diverse populations with opportunities to increase outdoor participation. Programs focused on removing language, income and mobility barriers in under-served populations to embolden the success of a cross-cultural environment, to provide opportunities for impactful living and to create an environment inclusive to everyone. McHenry County Conservation District and its partners seek to ful昀椀ll a goal where people of all ages, cultures and abilities are engaged and empowered to learn about and contribute to conservation in diverse and impactful ways in order to gain a greater appreciation for the communities in which they reside. From clean air and water to positive impacts on our mental health, the bene昀椀ts of nature are countless and meant to be shared by all. Nature is not an amenity but a necessity for everyone’s health and Mussels, sometimes called the "silent storytellers" are vital to well-being. the health of our streams. Because mussels are indicator species, our Wildlife Ecologist, with help from members of our Natural Removing Mobility Barriers: Cycling Without Age of McHenry Resources team, conducts surveys of di昀昀erent stream segments County provides Trishaw rides to senior citizens and persons with to document species diversity and population size to determine limited mobility to enjoy cycling and the outdoors. The program stream health. helps to reduce social isolation and build bridges between This year, some of our surveys of District sites were extremely generations. Rides are o昀昀ered weekends Spring through Fall on successful. One such survey collected, identi昀椀ed and enumerated multiple Conservation District regional bike trails. Cycling Without 1,042 live individual mussels, using a 10 man crawl protocol! Age is an international nonpro昀椀t program that arose from grass roots e昀昀orts by local cyclists and lovers of the outdoors. The success of these surveys were attributed to the location Partners: Cycling Without Age of McHenry County and Crystal Lake Park District at which they were conducted. Both were completed in areas of the streams that have not been altered by channelization, Making Outdoor Immersion A昀昀ordable: An overnight camping were bu昀昀ered by natural areas, or existed far downstream from program immerses families in nature and includes guided nature agricultural 昀椀elds and water treatment plants (thus, not being as hikes, environmental learning opportunities and camp昀椀re greatly impacted by chemical runo昀昀 and erosion). programs. Free transportation and camping equipment is In an ideal world, this is what ALL of our streams would look like, but provided. This new initiative aims to break down access and unfortunately many freshwater mussel species are endangered or cost barriers that exist for families that may not feel comfortable threatened, indicating that the streams and other life within them recreating in the outdoors on their own. The program allows to are not as healthy as they should be. discover the value of nature and develop a long-term relationship Many mussels are sensitive to changes in their environments. with the great outdoors. Populations of mussels have declined alarmingly in recent decades Partners: McHenry County Conservation Foundation, Lake in the Hills Rotary Club because of siltation, pollution, and competition from exotic and the Youth and Family Center of McHenry County mollusks. One way to increase stream health is the implementation of large 昀椀lter strips, at least 40-feet of vegetation where streams Reaching the Latino Population: Conversación de Conservación, border agricultural 昀椀elds. These strips 昀椀lter chemicals and prevent a collaboration between local conservation organizations and soil erosion from entering the streams. Latino community leaders, helps local Latinos connect with the many places and opportunities in McHenry County related to McHenry County Conservation District Police conservation and the environment. Numerous outreach e昀昀orts Department wins National Wellness Award have resulted in special bilingual programs; planting a pollinator The Conservation District Police Department received the 2023 garden; themed picnics, hikes, and paddling outings; as well as Destination Zero Award for their implementation of a proactive scholarships and internships for Latino students. o昀케cer wellness program that focused on physical 昀椀tness, mental Partners: The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, The Land Conservancy, health, nutrition, stress management and healthier lifestyles. Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, Youth & Family Center of McHenry The program, which was launched in 2019, has become an integral County and The Hispanic Connections Woodstock component of employee/o昀케cer development and management of the department. Indigenous Perspectives: Program and event coordination with Destination Zero, an initiative of the National Law Enforcement the Trickster Cultural Center helps raise awareness, educate and O昀케cers Memorial Fund, is designed to help agencies improve the make meaningful Native American cultural connections about health and safety of law enforcement o昀케cers across the country, indigenous peoples’ relationship to the land today. Community from agent to correctional o昀케cer, from trooper to patrolman. engagement include featured speakers, a winter solstice story- The goal of the program is to create a platform that provides law telling session and a cultural medicine seed harvest day. Future enforcement agencies the ability to o昀昀er safety and wellness programs will honor Native American heritage and the District’s programs and identify resources necessary to begin their own risk grassland grazing bison herd. Partner: Trickster Cultural Center management initiatives. Each year, awards are presented in 昀椀ve 2 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 categories, and winners are acknowledged in Washington, DC.

Do you know a Conservation Champion? Nominations Due December 31st for Conservation Champion and Conservation Legacy Awards— McHenry County Conservation District is seeking nominations of individuals who are and have been Conservation Champions for the Public Open Space Conservation District Awarded of McHenry County. The two inaugural $200,000 Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Conservation Awards, Conservation Champion and Conservation The Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Legacy, will recognize exceptional Natural Resources, selected the Conservation District's Prairie Trail project for funding. contributions of individuals who have In Spring of 2024 the District will resurface an existing 1.25 mile section of the Prairie made extraordinary impacts to the Trail, between Hillside and Edgewood Roads in Crystal Lake, and will include restoring conservation movement through their the turf shoulders for better drainage and implementing detectable warnings at continued dedication and support of the intersections. mission of the Conservation District. Funding for the Illinois Bicycle Path Grant program comes from a percentage of the The Conservation Legacy Award motor vehicle title fees with the aim to provide 昀椀nancial aid to eligible local units of will acknowledge the signi昀椀cant past government to assist in acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of public o昀昀-road, contributions of an individual who non-motorized bicycle paths and related facilities. “The Illinois Department of Natural exempli昀椀ed the Conservation Ethic and Resources is pleased to provide funding to help local communities encourage families in昀氀uenced the growth and awareness and individuals to get outside, enjoy the outdoors, and reduce their carbon footprint of the Conservation District whether with more biking and less driving,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. it be through leadership, innovation, With a population of nearly 308,000 McHenry County has a vibrant bicycle community. environmental legislation, community The trail provides access and a safe and convenient route for cyclists to bike to work, building, restoration 昀椀eldwork, run errands or go out to lunch. Numerous businesses cater to the bicycle community by citizen science and volunteering, or employing people and purchasing goods/services which is an economic driver for the donations of money and land. local communities. The Conservation Champion Award The entire Prairie Trail provides access to nearly 100 miles of trails, linking to the District's will be awarded to a person who Ridge昀椀eld Trace (Crystal Lake to Woodstock) and to Kane County's Fox River Trail which embodies the passion for our local also connects to DuPage County's Prairie Path. It is also serves as a section of the Grand environment and has shared their Illinois Trail which, at 575 miles in length, is the longest multipurpose recreational trail in inspiration with others by preserving, the state of Illinois. restoring, and/or teaching about McHenry County’s beautiful natural landscapes. To nominate a Conservation Champion or Legacy Award, download and submit an electronic nomination from the District’s website (MCCD.me/ ConservationAwards). Nominations will be accepted through December 31, 2023. SAVE THE DATE Bring the Past to Life—We Want Your story! Intro to Volunteering Old Photographs & Oral History Interview Requests with the Conservation District Contact Bailey at [email protected] or leave a message at the Lost Valley Visitor Center (815) 338-6223. Do you have memories of farms, day camps or other activities on properties the Saturday, February 10 Conservation District now owns? The Conservation District collects the history of what 1 – 2:30 p.m. occurred on these lands through the past 100+ years. This captured history helps tell the Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood story of life in McHenry County. If you have photos/movies to share, or would like to set up Fee: Free Code: 8245 an oral history interview—we would love to talk to you! Come learn about the di昀昀erent volunteer These stories anchor us in a larger whole, connecting us to the past, giving us a sense of opportunities available throughout identity, roots and belonging. the year. No prior experience needed In every community—families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools—there are for most positions, just a willingness to people, “bearers of tradition” who have knowledge to share; these persons become learn. Give back, get outdoors, meet new primary sources of culture and history. As folklorist Barbara Kirshenblatt-Gimblett writes, people, learn new skills, preserve nature, “they are living links in the historical chain, eye witnesses to history, shapers of a vital and build community, enrich your life, and indigenous way of life. They are unparalleled in the vividness and authenticity they can pay it forward! bring to the study of local history and culture.” 3

$25,000 Enbridge Fueling Futures Grant Awarded to Support Conservation District’s Prescription Burn Program On behalf of the Conservation District, the Conservation Foundation was awarded a $25,000 grant from Enbridge’s Fueling Futures program. Funds will be used to purchase a 200 gallon portable 昀椀re昀椀ghting unit, an essential tool for land managers who use prescribed 昀椀re. The District’s previous portable unit was nearly 20 years old and reaching the end of its useful life. Regular implementation of prescribed burns by trained professionals in both prairie and BECOME A woodland habitats helps control invasive plants from competing with native species. CONSERVATION CHAMPION Prescribed burning helps recycle nutrients into the soil, promotes the growth of native species, and allows for the creation of a mosaic of habitat for a variety of plants and animals Every dollar donated to the McHenry including numerous threatened and endangered species. By conducting controlled burns County Conservation Foundation supports great strides have been made in restoring our conservation areas to a healthier and more the vital work of the McHenry County sustainable condition. The District typically conducts an average of 29 prescribed burns Conservation District and its partners, while on roughly 1,770 acres of land each year. also enhancing the health and vibrancy of our community and its residents. Make a Gift: Online: McHenryConservation.org/Donate By Check: Payable & Addressed to — McHenry County Conservation Foundation Lost Valley Visitor Center 7210 Keystone Road Richmond, IL 60071 Learn More at McHenryConservation.org McHenry County Conservation Foundation Awarded Nicor Gas Oak Ecosystem Conservation Grant Big Woods Donate a Tree! The Conservation Foundation was awarded a $9,997 Nicor Gas Oak Ecosystem Conservation Community Projects grant to assist with woodland reforestation e昀昀orts at Marengo Ridge Conservation Area. The funds were applied to the Conservation District’s Donate a native tree or shrub in celebration, Big Woods planting program, where nearly 600 native trees and shrubs were planted on in memory, or in love of the woodlands. 10+ acres at Marengo Ridge Conservation Area as part of two OAKtober planting parties. Tree and shrub plantings will restore During the 昀椀rst planting party, District sta昀昀 and volunteers reforested the heart of historically wooded sites and reconnect Marengo Ridge by planting 350 oak trees and shrubs on 5.8 acres. This tree planting existing stands to create contiguous oak completed a 27-acre restoration area within the 818 acre woodland site. The second savannas and woodlands. volunteer planting involved the planting and caging of 240 trees on 4.5 acres, and With your help, the Conservation District included a guided, educational hike where attendees learned about woodland will purchase native trees and shrubs and management and invasive species management best practices. plant them each fall on District sites that When mature, these plantings will connect a fragmented woodland and create functional were historically wooded. Through this habitat for numerous species, including four of the Illinois Department of Natural program, we plan to restore and recreate Resources’ 昀椀ve focal species of concern: the Acadian Flycatcher, the Eastern Whip-poor- will, the Northern Flicker, and the Redheaded Woodpecker. Additional species that will the “big woods” of McHenry County. be positively impacted by these plantings include Blue winged warbler, wood thrush, MCCD.me/BigWoodsTreeDonation American woodcock, Brown Creeper, Brown thrasher and Eastern Towhee, all species of concern, and the state threatened Black Billed Cuckoo. We are grateful for your support of our The “Big Woods” once covered over a third of McHenry County, and these programs treasured oak savannas and woodlands. support McHenry County Conservation District’s e昀昀ort to reestablish and reconnect hundreds of acres of woodland across the County. Since 2016, more than 4,155 native trees and shrubs have been planted on over 50 acres, supporting the long term goal of improving the health of our county’s oak ecosystems by 昀椀lling in the fragmented landscape with contiguous woodland communities. MCCD.me/BigWoodsTreeDonation 4 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24

Foundation News Employers and Employees in McHenry County! Are You Engaging Your Community in Conservation? Corporate collaboration and partnerships are essential to the success of the McHenry County Conservation Foundation’s work. When you partner with the Foundation, you invest in the community and strengthen your workforce’s connection to it. Corporate commitment to the land makes our county a more attractive place to live and work, raises property values, and protects our critical and treasured natural areas for generations to come. There are a variety of ways the McHenry County Conservation Foundation collaborates with local businesses to build community involvement and support their social responsibility goals: • Event Sponsorship to build awareness and funding partners. • Charitable Dollars toward speci昀椀c projects to enhance the value of the county’s open space. • Establish Corporate Volunteer Days or Lunch & Learns to engage employees in meaningful, purpose-driven and passion-aligned work. To learn more about how we can meet your speci昀椀c needs while ful昀椀lling your charitable goals, contact Shawna Flavell at 815-338-6223 or s昀氀[email protected]. 2024 Marks the 25th Anniversary of the McHenry County Conservation Foundation! Celebrate this important milestone with us by becoming a monthly donor! By signing up to make a recurring gift, you not only mark the special occasion, but also 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. Volunteer With Us as We Adopt-A-Trail! Help us reach our goal of 25 inaugural monthly donors in 2024 at the $25 or more level! Between All Ages Welcome now and September 2024, supporters who sign up Once a month, Conservation Foundation staff and volunteers to give $25 each month to the McHenry County meet for a morning stroll and pick up any debris along a one-mile Conservation Foundation will receive a free stretch of the trail. Get some fresh air, help beautify the Prairie Foundation tote bag or co昀昀ee mug. Trail and meet some new people in the process! Dress for the weather. Bring gloves and hand sanitizer. Visit McHenryConservation.org/Monthly Long trash pickers provide. The Foundation supports the mission of the McHenry County Conservation District by working to safeguard our natural Visit McHenryConservation.org/PrairieTrail heritage: our health, our wildlife, our freshwater, our way of or email [email protected] to sign-up. life. If we want to preserve and protect these things for future Saturdays 9 – 11 a.m. generations, a 昀氀ourishing natural environment is critical. November 18 and December 16 Meet a Mitchard Way Parking Lot, Algonquin Our work to champion for our natural world is not possible without your generous support. 5

Volunteer Opportunities Ages 14+ Get Outdoors and Give Back! Intro to Volunteering — Restoration Day with McHenry County Conservation District GREEN FRIDAY November 24 Saturday, February 10, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood No experience necessary. Dress for outdoors and bring work gloves. Fee: Free Code: 8858 Families welcome, ages 6 and up! Great for scouts and high school Are you looking for a way to give back, get outdoors, students needing service hours. and enrich your life in a fun-昀椀lled way? Come check out Alden Sedge Meadow, Alden 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. our volunteer programs! Hear about all the di昀昀erent Boger Bog, Bull Valley 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. volunteer opportunities available throughout the year. Boone Creek, Woodstock 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. No prior experience needed for most positions, just a willingness to learn. Volunteer and meet new people, Exner Marsh, Woodstock 9 a.m. - Noon learn new skills, preserve nature, build community and Stickney Run, McHenry 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. pay it forward! New Year’s Eve Restoration Day Dec 31 • 1-4 p.m. at Boone Creek, Woodstock RSVP to steward Brandie Dunn, [email protected] Egg rolls and crab rangoons provided by Lakeland Animal Hospital! VOLUNTEER RESTORATION DAYS — Here is a great outdoor service opportunity for scouts and high school students, as well as individuals and families with children over age six. Tools and equipment provided. Dress for weather and o昀昀-trail activities. Wear sturdy footwear and work gloves. RSVP directly to the restoration day leader or sign up online: MCCD.me/RestorationRSVP. Note: Students ful昀椀lling requirements and groups of 昀椀ve or more should sign-up at least 1 week in advance. Corporate/business groups, contact Shawna Flavell at (815) 338-6223. Location – map inside back cover monthLy scheduLe site steward – caLL before you go! Alden Sedge Meadow South, Alden/ 11/18, 11/24, 12/16, 1/20, 2/17 Jack & Judy Speer, [email protected] Harvard Parking: 15820 IL Route 173, Harvard 1 - 3:30 pm or (815) 690-6240. Boger Bog, Bull Valley 11/24 & 25, 12/16, 1/27, 2/24 Ders Anderson, [email protected] S Parking: 2100 Cherry Valley Rd, Bull Valley 10 am - 1 pm or (815) 451-8496 Y A Cotton Creek Marsh, Island Lake D Parking: behind St. John Lutheran Church Every Saturday 10 a.m. Mike Bouska (815) 759-0731 TUR 405 W State Rd #176, Island Lake Contact Site Steward for times. A S Du昀椀eld (McConnell Entrance), Woodstock Contact Site Steward for dates. Je昀昀 Schumacher & Mike Evans, Parking: 11418 McConnell Rd. Woodstock 9 am - Noon [email protected] or (815) 575-8080 Exner Marsh, Lake in the Hills 11/18, 11/24, 12/16, 1/20, 2/10 Len Bannon, [email protected] Contact Steward for parking location 9 am - Noon or (847) 669-1381 Glacial Park, Ringwood 11/24, 11/25, 12/30, 1/27, 2/24 Jim Andrews, text (847) 361-9498 Parking: 8320 Macwood Drive, Richmond 10 am - 1 pm Pioneer Fen, Johnsburg 11/11, 12/9, 1/13, 2/10 Pat Sullivan-Schroyer & Carla Hanrahan 4700 N. Waltshire Ln, McHenry 9:30 am - Noon [email protected] or 815-675-9004 Stickney Run, McHenry 11/18, 12/9, 1/13, 2/4 Pete Jackson, [email protected] Parking: Varies — contact steward 9 am - Noon or (224) 612-1803 Boone Creek, Woodstock 11/15, 1/17, 2/21: 10am-1pm Brandie Dunn, [email protected] Parking: 916 Cold Springs Rd, Woodstock 12/31: 1 - 4 pm or (815) 347-2247 Coral Woods, Marengo Flexible - Contact Site Steward Bonnie Leahy, [email protected] or (815) 923-2208 Parking: 7400 Somerset Dr, Marengo Available weekdays & weekends E High Point, Harvard 11/14, 12/12, 1/9, 2/13 Orrin Bangert & Randy Stowe, L B Parking: Varies — contact steward 9 am - 1 pm [email protected] or (815) 943-6333 IA R Oakwood Hills Fen, Oakwood Hills Patrick Boros & Jim Anderson, A Contact Site Steward for dates. V Parking: Lakewood Dr. & E Park Lane [email protected] or (847) 639-6547 North Branch (McConnell Farmstead), Contact Site Steward for dates. Rommy Lopat & Michelle Wilson, Richmond [email protected] or (847) 922-0437 Fel-Pro RRR Disc Golf Course, Crystal Lake Contact Site Steward for dates. Michael Castiglione, [email protected] 6 Parking: 1520 Crystal Lake Rd, Cary or (773) 820-2767

Volunteer Opportunities Tom Talks! Once you've signed up, a Zoom meeting invitation will be emailed with instructions on how to join the webinar 1-2 days before. Free and Open to the public. View the complete Tom Talks Series on our YouTube channel: DISCOVERMCCD/TOMTALKS. A History of Climate and What Nature’s Engineers: Tiny Tom Talks - 15 min Ages 16+ to Expect Ages 16+ The Ecology of Beaver Ages 16+ 2:30 p.m. Fee: Free Code: 8917 Friday, December 15 - Webinar Wednesday, January 17 - Webinar Research Ecologist Tom Simpson will give 10 a.m. – Noon Fee: Free Code: 8915 10 a.m. – Noon Fee: Free Code: 8916 you his perspectives on various topics. Climate is in the news. Every day we Beaver didn’t simply live in the water, they February 1 - The 0.01%-Remnant Prairies hear about another climate-related made the water. They made the pond, February 8 - What's in a Weed? What to event—a wild 昀椀re, a 昀氀ood, a drought. Yet, the marsh, the meadow. They made the do if phragmites is here to stay? how could anyone be sure it’s climate places where hundreds of species and change? In this webinar, we will give you millions of creatures lived. And then one February 15 - Bugs, Birds, & Bison in some background concerning climate day they were gone—gone by the time Conservation Farming in general, how it has changed in earth European-Americans settled the area in February 22 - Blades of Glory: Tips to history, why it changes, why ice ages the early 1800s. This is the tale of their identify plants that look like grass, but happened in the past (and will happen former abundance and in昀氀uence, their aren't! again!), how we can be pretty sure of disappearance, and the promise of their February 29 - Oak Reproduction in a certain things but not absolutely sure, recovery. Nutshell and how a few billion puny little human March 7 - Hitchhikers & Ballistics: How do beings could actually change a planet’s seeds move? climate. Phenology Orientation Ages 18+ Chicago Wilderness Thursday, February 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Prescribed Burn Crew Training Ages 18+ Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Feb 23 & 24, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Fee: Free Code: 8905 Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: $75 Code: 8509 If you like to watch our natural areas come alive in the spring Each fall and spring, volunteers join prescribed burn crews led and summer, consider joining our phenology program. by District sta昀昀. Though prescribed burning only happens a few Volunteers visit the site of their choice every other week to days per season, it remains one of the most e昀昀ective tools for record which plants are blooming May through September. restoration, and volunteer involvement allows us to cover larger This data is used for an on-going research study. A moderate areas. knowledge of plant ID is necessary, but more important is an Burn crew volunteers are required to complete the Chicago enthusiasm for being in the 昀椀eld on a regular basis and the Wilderness Alliance (CWA) Prescribed Burn Crew Member Training willingness to learn. The phenology program is in its ninth year Course. Registered McHenry County Conservation District and more than 30 volunteers have been part of the fun! volunteers receive a discount. Contact [email protected]. s o m Volunteer at a a R n i h Festival of the Sugar Maples! a n Z h o J Volunteer Training Workshop Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. – Noon Volunteer Positions Needed for: Saturday, Sunday and Monday March 9, 10 & 11 and March 16 & 17 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. No experience necessary. During this workshop, event volunteers learn the history and techniques of maple sugaring and tree-tapping. An introductory tour of the Coral Woods trail follows with an explanation of the di昀昀erent stations. Volunteers then choose their preferred dates and station assignments. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator (815) 338-6223 or email [email protected]. 7

Seasonal Sightings Learn more or test your tree ID skills at a District program this winter! Trees in Winter Experience Evergreens! (p. 11) Winter Tree ID (p. 16) by Education and Visitor Center Services Coordinator Kim Compton Many think the lack of green in the winter makes the landscape look barren. But the lack of leaves on trees gives us a chance to see much more than we can in summer months. Woodpecker holes, squirrel nests, bird nests, lichen and bark beetle tunnels all suddenly become easy to see. And the trees themselves show o昀昀 their shape, size and branch structure, meaning you can identify tree species in winter, even without their leaves! A majestic crowned bur oak with its spindly branches and stout trunk is beautiful to behold. Go for a walk in the woods this winter and see what you can identify! Identifying by Shape Identifying by Bark A) are Mature black cherry trees (A) are very distinguishable by bark. Shagbark hickory trees ( usually tall and narrow while The bark looks like burnt corn昀氀akes which just happens to start weeping willows (B) are wide with the same letters as the tree, "bc" for black cherry, a tip to and arching. Bur oaks have help you remember. Shagbark hickory (B) is pretty obvious as spindly branches and black well with “shaggy” peeling bark. walnuts are full and round. A B Identifying by Branching Tree branches can either be opposite or alternate. An opposite tree will have a twig sticking out of both sides of a branch on the exact same spot (unless it broke o昀昀 or was eaten by an animal). A tree with alternate branching has twigs alternating A B up and down the branches, not directly across from each other. When you identify the branching style, you have narrowed your Evergreens search. In our area only maples, ashes, dogwoods, and non- native horse chestnut and buckthorn are opposite. Of course evergreens do still have their leaves, or needles, and so that is the easiest way to identify them in the winter. Pine Opposite Alternate trees have needles in bundles—multiple needles come from the twig in the same spot. Red pines have 2" longer needles in bundles and white pines have 5" medium length needles. Identifying by Twigs Spruce and 昀椀r trees have needles all over the twig in singles. Twigs are probably the most unique by species and a good way Spruce needles are four sided and can be rolled between your to identify trees in winter. Sugar maples (C) have reddish very 昀椀ngers. Fir tree needles are 昀氀at and will not roll if you try to pointed buds while hickory trees (D) have fuzzy large terminal rub them between your 昀椀ngers. Although evergreens are not buds on the end of the twig. Bur oaks (E) have a cluster of buds native to McHenry County, we have a large variety that were at the end of the twig. planted and still live in our conservation areas. Pine Spruce / Fir B R BR U T u ob uob n . D g g i w R we v a ou C r D e v E o ot r i o o V sis S d.t d.i t l dé y y o e o , d rgdge rgk Bn i u o , g , D r S or w , T a o h u on o e O l d. t i C c o h o u rgi l m o S l e K ge t f a , t t . e , 8 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24

Winter Activities Hike or Ski on Glacial Park Solar Lit Trails Snowshoe Rental November 5 – March 10 Get out and hike in the winter wonderland. Once there is 5" of snow or more stop in the Trails close at 9 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center to rent a pair of snowshoes for just $10 for the entire day! We have men’s, women’s and Pleasant Valley children's sizes available on a first-come, first-served basis. 13315 Pleasant Valley Rd., Woodstock Snowshoe rental hours are 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Note: last This half-mile looped trail located on the rental is at 2:30 p.m. You will be required to leave a drivers’ Cash, check or credit accepted for payment.) east side of the entrance drive is fairly flat license. ( terrain, perfect for beginners or shorter outings. Use the first parking area. Hickory Grove Highlands Sledding at Glacial Park (Note: Closed Nov. 10-12 ) Open when there is 4" or more of snow 500 Hickory Nut Grove Lane, Cary Take a ride down the sled hill at The 0.79 mile looped trail travels through a Glacial Park. restored savanna, offering a longer scenic route suitable for intermediate skiers. The unsupervised hill is located east of the amphitheater Winter Trail Etiquette: by the Wiedrich Barn and is perfect for some great old-fashioned, outdoor wintry fun with family or friends. When there is snow, hikers and leashed dogs are asked to walk on the Afterwards, warm up in the Lost Valley Visitor Center and OUTSIDE of the ski tracks. explore the exhibits, or use the binoculars, puzzles, story books and activity pages available. Snowmobile Winter Camping The Conservation District has over 17 miles of snowmobile trails in Glacial Park and along the Prairie Trail that connect November 1–March 31 Daily with numerous County trails. Snowmobile trails are open Thomas Woods in Marengo Ridge, Marengo in the winter after Dec. 10 and when there Take in the sights and sounds of the quiet, peaceful is at least 4" of snowfall winter woods and sleep under crisp, star-昀椀lled skies. on frozen ground; 6" snow Hike the trails, follow animal tracks, bring your cross on unfrozen ground. country skis or snowshoes and stoke the camp昀椀re as you enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Call the Snowmobile Hotline for county snowmobile Reserve online at MCCD.me/Reservations. trail updates and classes: 815-334-SNOW. Ice Fishing Winter Ice Fishing on Lake Atwood at The Hollows in Cary is 昀椀sh at your own risk. Open/Closed Signs are not posted. Stay o昀昀 ice that is less than 4" thick. Skate Ski Trail Silver Creek 1200 Block of Rawson Bridge Road, Cary A skate ski trail di昀昀ers from a traditional cross country ski trail by being packed, but not tracked. The trail at Silver Creek is a 1½ mile, relatively 昀氀at, trail loop. No pets please. 9

Special Events Get Your Jingle On! December 9 • Noon – 4 p.m. Glacial Park All Ages – Drop In FREE! HOlidAy AT gRANdMA'S HOUSE Powers-Walker House Step back in time to visit the 1854 restored Greek Revival, Powers-Walker House and watch volunteers in historical attire preparing for winter and the holidays in the mid- 19th century. See the fresh tree decorated with homemade and natural trimmings and experience the beauty of the season as it was in earlier times. NATURE'S ORNAMENTS Lost Valley Visitor Center Join us to create one-of-a-kind historical pioneer ornaments using materials from nature. There will be a variety of ornaments you can create and hang in your home! HOlly JOlly ScAvENgER HUNT Lost Valley Visitor Center Participants pick up a self-guided scavenger hunt and return it for a prize! PRiMiTivE SPORTS: ARcHERy & TOMAHAwk THROw Saturday, December 9, 10:30 a.m. - Noon Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R $5 / NR $6 Code: 8881 Ages 7+ Once a part of everyday life, archery shooting and tomahawk throwing were an integral part of survival. Today, many enjoy archery as part of sport hunting and recreation. Join us for an evening of testing our primitive outdoor survival skills of the past as we try our hand at shooting archery and throwing tomahawks! 10 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 Register online at MCCDistrict.org.

Forest Bathing Ages 18+ Tuesday, December 5, 3-4:30 p.m. Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area, Cary Fee: R $20 / NR $25 Code: 8892 Join certi昀椀ed Forest Therapy Guide Jennifer Boudart on a guided walk through Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area. During this program, you will learn about forest bathing and the Fel-Pro site itself before concluding with tea and water. Welcome Winter Solstice Ages 6+ Thursday, December 21, 2-4 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: Free Code: 8909 Welcome winter with traditional indigenous music, dancers, and family-friendly arts and crafts, as well as Candlelight Ski/Hikes All Ages story-telling by Gina Roxas, Executive Director for the Trickster Cultural Center, ethnobotanist, and citizen of Friday and Saturday evenings from 5–9 p.m. the Prairie Band Potawatomi. Learn about indigenous December 15 & 16 Harrison Benwell, Wonder Lake peoples’ connections to the winter solstice in this multi-cultural celebration. January 12 & 13 Marengo Ridge, Marengo Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided, along February 9 & 10 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake with a camp昀椀re and warming stations on the patio! Depending on snow conditions we will hike or ski on trails lit only by Activities will move indoors in case of bad weather. candlelight! No pets please. Bring your own skis. Trails are groomed when there is 4" of snow or more. Winter Solstice Soiree All Ages Not enough snow? Leave the skis at home and enjoy a candlelight Thursday, December 21, 4-5:30 p.m. hike, a campfire and the allure of the winter woods. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Check Before You Go: Cancellations may occur if trails are icy, hazardous Fee: R $2 / NR $6 Code: 8872 or wind chill drops below -20˚. Alerts are posted at MCCDistrict. org. Experience the longest, darkest night of the year while creating new traditions! Take a 1 mile, star-lit night hike ending at a cozy camp昀椀re. Please leave 昀氀ashlights at home. We will let the stars light our way! 2024, Get Out and Explore: New Year’s Resolution All Ages Saturday, January 6, 7-8:30 a.m. Experience Evergreens! Ages 14+ Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area, Cary Friday, December 29, 1-2:30 p.m. Fee: R $2 / NR $6 Code: 8898 Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, Marengo Happy New Year! Let’s start 2024 with some time outdoors. Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8874 We will start by heading to the Lake Shelter and toasting to 2024 Join a Certi昀椀ed Arborist on a seasonal hike to view before setting o昀昀 on a short hike around the pond or on the paved evergreens planted at Marengo Ridge by former path. We’ll 昀椀nish with some treats, cheers with sparkling grape juice landowner, Dr. Emerson Kunde. Learn more about and warm up with a 昀椀re. the history of this site while discovering what makes these evergreen species unique. Kicko昀昀 From the Kames: Out with 2023 Ages 14+ Saturday, December 30, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R $2 / NR $6 Code: 8875 Join us for a 1.5–2 mile hike as we venture to the top of the kames. We will count down to noon and symbolically release anything from 2023 that we are ready to let go. The hike will end with a small bon昀椀re and warm beverages on the patio of the Lost Valley Visitor Center. Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 Register online at MCCDistrict.org. 11

Special Events In Search of Eagles S he ryl Ma yhe Saturday, January 20, 8 - 10 a.m. w McHenry Dam, Algonquin Dam, Carpentersville Dam, Lake Geneva Representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Friends of Hackmatack Wildlife Refuge, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and McHenry County Audubon will be on hand at locations along the Fox River in Illinois and Geneva Lake in Wisconsin to help you search for eagles. There will be scopes and binoculars available for use at each location, along with guided activities for children. Visit the site closest to you or visit them all! Presentation Eagles of Illinois All Ages Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. FREE Code: 8865 People have been inspired by eagles for centuries. See the power and beauty of these truly magni昀椀cent birds of prey when you meet a Bald Eagle and a Golden Eagle. You will also see other birds of prey that are commonly misidenti昀椀ed as eagles. Presented by the Illinois Raptor Center; Sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Sandy Lorenz Carlson An Afternoon with the Short-Eared Owls Ages 8+ Sunday, February 18, 4:30–6 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R Free/NR $5.00 Code: 8868 The short-eared owl is an Illinois endangered species, but we are fortunate to have them visit Glacial Park every winter! We will teach more about the owls while driving through the park to look for them at dusk. 12 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 Register online at MCCDistrict.org.

r u o k Y r a M s FFFFesesesesttttiiiivvvvaaaallll ooooffff tttthhhheeee r lenda a C SSSSuuuuggggaaaarrrrMMMM apapapaplelelelessss March 9, 10, 11 and March 16, 17 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Coral Woods Conservation Area 7400 Somerset, Marengo • Hear how maple syrup was made hundreds of years ago… • Learn how sap is collected from maple trees… • Discover how maple trees produce sap each spring... • See how maple syrup is made at the evaporator house! PASSPORT >>> to LOST VALLEY ADVENTURES > > Interactive Exhibit > > > OOppeen dn daaiilly 9 ay 9 a..mm. - 4. - 4::000 p0 p..mm.. > Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood > Experience the Passport to Lost Valley Adventures exhibit! Learn about the prairie, woodland and river habitats. Smell the scent of a marsh, open discovery drawers, touch the furs of a muskrat, deer, coyote and badger, try on pioneer clothes, use binoculars to spy birds up-close, and pick up a scavenger hunt sheet to complete for a prize! Color pictures and do activities in the passport to adventure activity booklet. Register online at MCCDistrict.org. Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 13

Stay Active This Winter! Nature’s Preschool: Mammals in Winter Wednesday, January 3–Friday, January 5 9:30–11:30 a.m. Ages 3⼀挀–5 Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R $15 / NR $19 Code: 8877 Send your little one to camp to learn about mammals in winter! This program includes outdoor activities and a craft. A healthy snack is provided but bring a water bottle and dress the kids in layers for indoor and outdoor activities. Children must be 3½ years by the start of the program and must be toilet-trained. This is a drop-o昀昀 program. Winter Break Day Camp Wednesday, January 3–Friday, January 5 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 8-11 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $60 / NR $75 Code: 8883 Join us for three days of exploring Prairieview in winter. We will hike, play games, and (hopefully) spend time in the snow. If you are a fan of the Conservation District’s Spring Break Camps and Summer Camps, you don’t want to miss Winter Discovery Days Ages 2–6 with an adult Break Camp! Enjoy a morning of fun, educational activities focused on our special theme This is a drop-o昀昀 program just for kids. of the day. Games, lessons and other hands-on experiences help participants explore our conservation areas. Dress for the weather. Fee: R $3 / NR $6 (Fee for child only) Educational Loan Materials Pinecone Pizzazz Friday, December 8, 10-11 a.m. Code: 8896 Available At: Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, Marengo Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Animals in Winter Friday, January 19, 10-11 a.m. Code: 8863 Discover a variety of free materials you can Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood borrow for use o昀昀 site or while you visit! Animal Tracks Tuesday, February 20, 10-11 a.m. Code: 8891 Take-Along Packs Boone Creek Conservation Area, Bull Valley May Include: Field guides, equipment, hands-on activities, GPS units and scavenger hunts Lost Valley Nature Detectives: Themed Trunks Self-Guided Explorations at Glacial Park May Include: Books, games, Stop by the Lost Valley Visitor Center to learn about a new topic puzzles, activities, posters, each month with various crafts and activities! DVDs and hands-on items December — Deer Learn about our local white-tailed deer and make a Water Quality Kits craft. Then, lace up your boots, check out an explorer backpack and themed May Include: Reference scavenger hunt, and hit the trail in search of signs of deer! materials, curriculum guides, January — Tracks & Scat Learn the tracks of common local animals, plus the water quality monitoring stinky signs they leave behind - their scat! Make your own mini tracking guide manuals, test kits and to take on the trails or use in your own backyard. equipment for biological February — Animal Sweethearts Did you know that several local animal monitoring species mate for life, take special care in raising their young, and are great examples of the meaning of love? Learn about our most unique “love birds” Learn More: MCCD.me/LoanMaterial and get inspired to create your own Valentine craft. 14 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 Register online at MCCDistrict.org.

No Time to Hibernate! Stories & Explore! Ages 2-6 with an adult Enjoy seasonal stories while relaxing inside a picnic shelter. We will read books about seasonal life for the 昀椀rst half and then do a little exploring around the site. Bring a blanket for extra warmth or a pillow to relax on while you listen to the stories. Fee: R Free / NR $5 Monday, December 18, 10-11 a.m. Coral Woods Conservation Area, Marengo Code: 8897 Monday, January 15, 10-11 a.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Code: 8899 Monday, February 19, 10-11 a.m. Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Code: 8900 “The Mitten” Ages 3-6 with Adult Winter Cake Decorating Ages 10+ Saturday, January 13, 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, December 16, 10 a.m.-Noon Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R $2 / NR $6 Code: 8885 Fee: R $38 / NR $48 Code: 8882 Join us for an interactive story time adventure Take your winter decorating to the next level! as we explore the characters from “The Mitten.” Learn to design a two layer, 6-inch round A young boy’s grandma knits him a pair of mittens but when winter-themed cake that will be perfect for he plays outside, he loses one in the snow. What a cozy place holiday gift-giving to others...or yourself! for woodland animals to get warm! This program includes a Our instructor will take you step-by-step from layering to the hike, outdoor activities, and a craft. Dress for the weather. 昀椀nishing touches. You will leave with your cake and decorating supplies so you can recreate your designs at home! Craft Corner Make Your Own Paper Ages 5+ Upcycled Crafts: Magazine Beads & Flowers Ages 9-14 Saturday, January 6, 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday, January 14, 1-2:30 p.m. Just for Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood kids! Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8729 Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8894 Learning to make your own paper is easy, fun and Learn how to upcycle magazines into beautiful beads and environmentally friendly. Take your samples home and paper 昀氀ower decorations. Basic supplies are provided, but you amaze your family and friends! This is a beginner class. are welcome to bring your own magazines for speci昀椀c colors. Papermaking: Natural Valentine All Ages Watch the Love Grow Ages 8+ Saturday, February 10, 1:30–3 p.m. Saturday, February 3, 9-11 a.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8867 Fee: R $2 / NR $6 Code: 8901 Do you need a Valentine’s Day gift idea? Have your family’s Give a gift from the heart this Valentine’s Day! Create a picture taken outdoors in beautiful Glacial Park and then paper card and a paper seed heart as a gift for someone make a “natural” picture frame to complete your gift. special to you. This is a beginner class. Register online at MCCDistrict.org. Youth 13 & under must be accompanied by an adult. Register online at MCCDistrict.org. Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 15

Cool Kids Winter Fun Skulls & Skins Ages 6+ Friday, December 29, 10-11 a.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8862 Join us for an indoor presentation on the fascinating adaptations of local wildlife. We will use skulls and furs to more closely examine each animal’s traits. Owl Pellet Dissection Ages 8+ Saturday, December 30, 2-3 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R $5 / NR $6 Code: 8876 In this dissection lab, we will have a short presentation to learn about how owls hunt and eat, and then dig into Sensory Night Hike Ages 5+ our own real, sanitized owl pellets Saturday, December 2, 7–8:30 p.m. to see what’s inside. Marengo Ridge, Marengo Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8880 Not everything goes to bed when the sun goes down! Experience the nighttime by using sight, touch, taste, sound and smell. We’ll also learn Crazy About Canines Ages 8-13 Just for kids! about nocturnal animals and how they use their senses at night. Saturday, February 17, 1:30-3 p.m. Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard Family Scavenger Hunt All Ages Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8879 Wednesday, December 27, 9:30-11 a.m. Do you love dogs? Come learn about their local Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood wild cousins - coyotes and foxes! We will take a Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8861 closer look at their skulls and furs, and learn how Bring the whole family out for a winter scavenger hunt adventure! Meet at the they survive in our area before going on a short visitor center for an introduction and to pick up your map and scavenger hunt hike to see if we can 昀椀nd any evidence of wild sheet. Then head out on the trails for a self-guided exploration. Bring your canids. completed sheet back to the program leader and get a prize! Fort Building Fun Ages 7+ Saturday, January 6, 9-11 a.m. Hickory Grove Conservation Area, Cary Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8731 Participants are invited o昀昀-trail to use their creativity and ingenuity to build forts and shelters using the natural materials around them. We will then discuss the importance of “Leave No Trace” as we disassemble our creations. Winter Tree ID Ages 12+ Sunday, February 11, 2-3:30 p.m. Harrison Benwell Conservation Area, Wonder Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8886 How do you tell tree species apart in the winter when there are no leaves? We Cynthia Smith will take a 1.6 mile hike and learn about tips and tricks to identify some of our common tree and shrub species in the cold months. 16 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 Register online at MCCDistrict.org.

Winter Explorations Research Roundup Brendan Connell Lora Petrak Marty Hackl Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m.-Noon Ages 14+ Lost Valley Visitor Center, Savanna Room, Glacial Park, Ringwood Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8884 Learn about the latest research conducted in our county from this trio of experts. Co昀昀ee and light snacks will be available Marsh and Sedge Wrens Study Anastasia Rahlin, Urban Biotic Assessment Manager & Ornithologist / University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign PhD Student, Illinois Natural History Survey, PhD Student at U of I will discuss her examination of wetland wrens from previous research and compare the 2022 and 2023 results. Bison Observation Field Study Gina Roxas, Executive Director / Ethnobotanist, Trickster Cultural Center will highlight the results of their bison behavior observation study, as well as the bisons' impact on vegetation, soil and wildlife. Local Plant Genetics & Restoration Kevin Scheiwiller, Restoration Ecologist, McHenry County Conservation District will discuss local plant genetics and the "Sought after 60" list for restoration e昀昀orts. SiteS Seldom Seen County Line Road Access Saturday, January 27, 10-11:30 a.m. County Line Road Access, Marengo Fee: R Free / NR $5 Ages 14+ Code: 8893 Join us on the county line as we explore our westernmost conservation area! This 10-acre site of wooded and open History Hike: Glacial Park areas offers hiking and fishing opportunities, as well as Saturday, February 10, 9:30-11 a.m. paddling access to the Kishwaukee River on the Boone Wiedrich Barn, Glacial Park, Ringwood County side. Also learn about the partnership between Fee: R Free / NR $5 Ages 14+ Code: 8866 McHenry and Boone County Conservation Districts to offer miles of river paddling opportunity. Learn about the former inhabitants of Glacial Park as we look for signs of their presence. Visit the Wiedrich Barn, the kettle marsh, the Thomas cemetery and more. Indigenous Storytelling and Nature Hike Ages 8+ Stories with Gerald Savage Ages 10+ Wednesday, December 27, 2-3 p.m. Thursday, January 18, 6-7:30 p.m. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake Fee: R Free / NR $5 Code: 8873 Fee: R $12 / NR $15 Code: 8887 Join Gina Roxas, Program Director for the Trickster Cultural Join us for an evening with Gerald Savage, Chief White Center, ethnobotanist and citizen of the Prairie Band Winnebago, Ho Chunk Ska Ga his formal native name, oldest Potawatomi on a family-friendly nature hike. Through the art grandson of Chief Walks with the Wind. Gerald will introduce of story-telling, you’ll learn about indigenous peoples’ cultural the Ho Chunk tribal customs, family names, clans, language, connections to the prairie and how traditional practices territory, manhood rites and ceremonies. Also hear his stories continue to shape indigenous peoples’ relationship to the handed down from generation to generation, including the land today. history of Starved Rock, a site central to his own family’s story. Register online at MCCDistrict.org. Youth 13 & under must be accompanied by an adult. Register online at MCCDistrict.org. Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 17

Education Program Registration Procedures Choose one of the following convenient ways to complete your registration. Payment must accompany your registration. Accepted: Checks payable to McHenry County Conservation District, cash and credit card. When registering by mail or drop o昀昀, be sure to sign the participant waiver at the bottom of the registration form (download at MCCD.me/RegistrationForm.) 8Online: +Mail: Drop off locations/hours:   MCCD.me/Programs Attn: Program Registration Lost Valley Visitor Center Prairieview Education Center Glacial Park, Route 31 & Harts Rd., Ringwood 2112 Behan Road Daily: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 'Phone: Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Prairieview Education Center (815) 338-6223 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake Tuesday & Thursday: 9 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Winter Registration Dates TipSign up for multiple people/programs at once Registration is processed 昀椀rst come, 昀椀rst served. to incur only one $2.00 transaction fee. (Fee programs only). Beginning on the following dates: Residents N on-residents November 10 N ovember 20 Withdrawal/Cancellation If you need to withdraw from a class, Confirmation You will receive a con昀椀rmation by email contact Prairieview Education Center at (815) 338-6223 or email and/or mail to verify your space in the program. [email protected] as soon as possible. Unless otherwise noted, advance notice of 昀椀ve business days is required to receive a Register Early Classes are typically canceled one week ahead refund. Cancellations may occur if there are an insu昀케cient number of time if they do not meet their minimums. of people registered or in the event of severe weather in the forecast. DECEMBER Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 Sensory Night Hike, 7–8:30 pm (p. 16) Corinne Hardt 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Forest Bathing, 3–4:30 pm Discovery Days: Pinecone Get Your Jingle On! (p. 11) Pizzazz, 10–11 am (p. 14) Archery & Tomahawk Throw 10:30 am–Noon (p. 10) Nature's Ornaments Holiday at Grandma's House Noon–4 pm (p. 10) 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Tom Talks: Climate, 10 am–12 pm Winter Cake Decorating, (p. 7) 10 am –Noon (p. 15) Candlelight Ski / Hike, 5–9 pm Candlelight Ski / Hike, 5–9 pm (p. 11) (p. 11) 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Stories & Explore, 10–11 am Welcome Winter Solstice, (p. 15) 2–4 pm (p. 11) Winter Solstice Soiree, 4–5:30 pm (p. 11) Lost Valley Visitor Center Open Christmas Day   24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Family Scavenger Hunt, Skulls and Skins, 10–11 am Kickoff from the Kames, Lost Valley Visitor Center open. 9:30–11 am (p. 16) (p. 16) 10:30 am–12:30 pm (p. 11) Indigenous Storytelling and Experience Evergreens!, Owl Pellet Dissection, 2–3 pm 31 Nature Hike, 2–3 pm (p. 17) 1–2:30 pm (p. 11) (p. 16) All District offices closed. Lost Valley Visitor Center Open 18

JANUARY Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday   New Year's Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 Winter Break Day Camp, Winter Break Day Camp, Winter Break Day Camp, 2024, Get Out and Explore, 9 am–3 pm (p. 14) 9 am–3 pm (p. 14) 9 am–3 pm (p. 14) 7–8:30 am (p. 11) Lost Valley Visitor Center Open Nature's Preschool: Mammals Nature's Preschool: Mammals Nature's Preschool: Mammals Fort Building Fun, 9–11 am (p. 14) District offices closed. in Winter, 9:30–11:30 am (p. 14) in Winter, 9:30–11:30 am (p. 14) in Winter, 9:30–11:30 am (p. 14) Make Your Own Paper, 2–3:30 pm (p. 15) 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Candlelight Ski / Hike, 5–9 pm "The Mitten", 10–11:30 am (p. 15) (p. 11) Candlelight Ski / Hike, 5–9 pm (p. 11) 14 Martin Luther 15 16 17 18 19 20 King Jr. Day Upcycled Crafts: Magazine Stories & Explore, 10–11 am Tom Talks: Beavers, 10 am–12 pm Stories with Gerald Savage, Discovery Days: Animals in In Search of Eagles, 8–10 am Beads and Flowers, 1–2:30 pm (p. 15) (p. 7) 6–7:30 pm (p. 17) Winter, 10–11 am (p. 7) (p. 12) (p. 15) Eagles of Illinois, 11 am–12:30 pm District offices closed. (p. 12) Lost Valley Visitor Center open. 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Sites Seldom Seen: County Line Road Access, 10–11:30 am (p. 17) 28 29 30 31 Keith D. Leman FEBRUARY Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 Tiny Tom Talks: Remnant Papermaking: Watch the Love Prairies, 2:30–2:45 pm (p. 7) Grow, 9–11 am (p. 15) Cynthia Smith 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Tiny Tom Talks: Weeds, Candlelight Ski / Hike, History Hike, 9:30–11 am (p. 17) 2:30–2:45 pm (p. 7) 5–9 pm (p. 11) Research Round Up, 10 am - Noon (p. 17) Intro to Volunteering, 1–2:30 pm (p. 7) Natural Valentine, 1:30–3 pm (p. 15) Candlelight Ski, 5–9 pm (p. 11) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Winter Tree ID, 2–3:30 pm Tiny Tom Talks: Bugs, Birds & Crazy About Canines, 1:30–3 pm (p. 16) Bison, 2:30–2:45 pm (p. 7) (p. 16) 18 Presidents Day 19 20 21 22 23 24 An Afternoon with Short-Eared Stories & Explore, 10–11 am Discovery Days: Animal Tracks, Tiny Tom Talks: Blades of Glory, Chicago Wilderness Prescribed Chicago Wilderness Prescribed Owls, 4:30–6 pm (p. 12) (p. 15) 10–11 am (p. 14) 2:30–2:45 pm (p. 7) Burn Crew Training, Burn Crew Training, Phenology Orientation, 8 am–4:30 pm (p. 7) 8 am–4:30 pm (p. 7) District offices closed. 6:30–8:30 pm (p. 7) Lost Valley Visitor Center open. 25 26 27 28 29 Tiny Tom Talks: Oak Reproduction, 2:30–2:45 pm (p. 7) Landscapes | Winter 2023-24 1919

Go Make Tracks—Your Winter Fun Guide d. * ) R * s l d il h n M rs la er d ch/ a ns igh t arnar ne e M yo e H PLEASE NOTE: ) en ) B y li ran ) ) ) iri ss L ov ) ow C ow o nt h B ow now ‡ ow ra cce r ow n n n 6 t u t n n y G n 7 o r f s ; a r ** Temporary closures f s io f s 1 f s n f s s P o f s ) s o t s o t. o c No l s o s o e s o n ow ick ing he a he : R h t / rai he he s F he o n ell es o ‡ Open for walk-in traffic * i c c th t th c e c l c y f s h H ch u l L * * * n duc n r o r n T n n i n g w * n ‡ sk / o o o ley " o u * * e * E N l dg s e o n ◊ Ice fishing/ice skating k at h 4 i d. s r a h 4 i v h 4 r e k R h s * un e ek ith 4 i it l– l N eb V ith 4 i it w ith 4 i o it h B th 4 i R rs * R sk t R o Ri he H o r ar i a e e r e iew ai t ai H l h t n ood when 4"+ ice present y Cr fo d w v d w r yo r nt d w ed w n t l d w d w rs o P d w o R ne d Cr e ie e e T P e T sa e ng e ry G e a is al e r r M W dal k er e h m ir m i : ri a m re om e i m o m r i m P l k Visit MCCD.me/Closures c k o a oo r h o a o k o k oo ie M r ac o l- ne ra o i lv ac us o r r ai ut ai le o r a he Hoo r r l o t i r r r r c i r x o o S P R G P G r P G M G L T G i G a Ha G G Fe E r S ( ( P So P ( H ( r C B ( ( ( P (                Hiking  †         Cross-Country                 (N) 1 mi. 4 mi. Skiing 1 mi. 1.3 mi. 3 mi. Beg. 4 mi. 10 mi. 2.7 mi. 2.2 mi. 1.5 mi. Beg. 4.5 mi. 2 mi. Beg. 2 mi. 1.5 mi. 1.5 mi. 4.5 mi. Int. Beg. Beg. Beg./Int. Beg. Beg. Beg. Beg. Beg. Beg. Beg. Beg. Beg. Multi-use trail † (S) ( Skate Skiing) 4.5 mi. 2.3 mi. 1.75 mi. 2 mi. Beg. Int. Int. Adv. Sledding /  Snow Tubing                Snow Shoeing    Ice Fishing / ◊ Ice Skating   Snowmobiling  Site & Seasonal Closures Hunting – seasonal site closures to ensure maximum safety for our visitors. October 1, 2023 - January 14, 2024 (then parking lots remains closed as weather conditions dictate.) County Line Road Access, Marengo (parking lot remains open for canoe launch access, then closed as weather conditions dictate.) Community Research Forest, Harvard (Exception: trail remains open 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. daily.) Fel-Pro RRR, west loop trail and west of power lines, Cary Silver Creek, East Loop South of Behan Rd., Crystal Lake (open for 昀椀shing.) Winding Creek, Hebron (Exception: early morning lot remains open) November 1, 2023 - January 14, 2024 Brookdale, Paulson Rd. Multi-Use Trail, Woodstock (then parking lot remains closed as weather conditions dictate.) October 27-29, November 3-5, and 10-12 Fox Blu昀昀, Cary (then parking lot remains closed as weather conditions dictate.) Silver Creek, Crystal Lake • Stickney Run, McHenry • Hickory Grove Highlands & Lyon's Prairie Marsh & Riverfront, Cary (open for 昀椀shing until 昀椀rst ice) November 17-19 Marengo Ridge, Marengo • Rush Creek, Harvard November 30 - December 3 Glacial Park including Lost Valley Visitor Center • Prairie Trail from W. Solon Rd. south to School Rd. November 30 - December 3, December 8-10; December 28-31; and January 12-14, 2024 Pioneer Road Canoe Landing, Richmond; then as weather conditions dictate closure. Weather Related – Check the website for current updates. Sites reopen mid to late March. Parking lots close with 2"+ of snowfall and reopen with mild weather but trails remain open to walk-in tra昀케c. After January 2, parking lots close for the season. Beck's Woods & Piscasaw North, Chemung Elizabeth Lake NP Varga Archaeological Site, Richmond Prairie Trail Meyer Lot, Algonquin Boger Bog, Bull Valley Exner Marsh/Lakewood & Miller Road, LITH Prairie Trail Hillside Lot, Algonquin Brookdale, Paulson Rd. Entrance, Woodstock High Point, Harvard Lake in The Hills Fen, LITH Community Research Forest, Harvard Huntley-Union-Marengo (HUM) Trail, Marengo North Branch, Richmond Du昀椀eld South, Woodstock Kishwaukee Headwaters, Woodstock Seasonal Closures or Special Conditions: Coral Woods, Marengo - Closed for Festival of the Sugar Maples, March 9-11 and March 16-17, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Du昀椀eld Pond: Pond, N., Woodstock - North Lot & Pond Close at 昀椀rst ice & stays closed. Hickory Grove Riverfront, Cary - Closed at 昀椀rst ice; trails open to walk-in tra昀케c, except hunting weekends: Oct. 27–29, Nov. 3-5, Nov. 10-12 Nippersink Canoe Base, Spring Grove - As conditions dictate 20 Landscapes | Winter 2023-24

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, prairies, wetlands and Woodstock, IL 60098 815.338.6223 savannas. Trails and other recreational amenities have been added 815.338.6223 September - May: Tues. & Thurs. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. within 35 conservation areas where the public can enjoy hiking, Closed: Nov. 23 biking, fishing, canoeing, picnicking, horseback riding, camping, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and hundreds of opportunities Lost Valley Visitor Center Wildlife Resource Center to attend outdoor environmental educational programs and events. Route 31 and Harts Rd., Ringwood, IL 815.728.8307 815.338.6223 November - March: Daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed: Nov. 23, Nov. 30 thru Dec. 3 and Dec. 25 Police Report suspicious activity: 815.338.6223 Trails are open to walk-in If no answer call: 815.338.2144 tra昀케c, but parking lots close with 2" of snowfall and stay closed unless temperatures become mild for a predicted

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 November 6 Special Events Get Your Jingle On! Intro to Volunteering Saturday, Dec. 9 Saturday, Feb. 10, 1–2:30 p.m. Glacial Park, Ringwood Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park Festival of the Sugar Maples In Search of Eagles Saturday, Jan 20, 8–10 a.m. Mar. 9, 10, 11, 16 & 17, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Various Locations Coral Woods, Marengo Candlelight Ski and Hike December 15 & 16 Harrison Benwell, Wonder Lake January 12 & 13 Marengo Ridge, Marengo February 9 & 10 Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake