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An exterior view of Hidden Oaks Nature Center.
Hidden Oaks Nature Center on schedule to reopen May 3
4/3/2025Renovations are progressing at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook and the building is scheduled to reopen to the public on May 3.
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An aerial view of an old railroad bridge over the Kankakee River.
Find the five: a bridge adventure across Will County
3/31/2025The Forest Preserve is rolling out a new spring challenge – The Bridges of Will County – that features five unique bridges in preserves throughout Will County. Visit all five from April 1 through June 30 to receive a Forest Preserve tote bag.
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Two men fish on a boat.
April kicks off boating, kayaking, fishing fun season
3/28/2025April 1 is the kickoff to the Forest Preserve District's boating season. Boat launches open at Rock Run Rookery and Whalon Lake and kayak rentals begin at Lake Chaminwood. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm opens April 5.
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A view of a restored tract of land.
Second wetland bank greenlit for restoration funding
3/24/2025The Forest Preserve District now has two wetland mitigation banks that will provide funding for restoration in two preserves. Farmers or developers who disturb wetlands elsewhere can buy credits in the banks to pay for wetland enhancements in Will County.
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A monarch butterfly on blazing star.
Isle a la Cache hosts buzz-worthy 'Pollination Investigation' exhibit
3/24/2025Smithsonian Gardens’ “Pollination Investigation” opens April 2 at Isle a la Cache Museum. The exhibit, which runs through June 22, highlights the crucial role pollinators play in our ecosystem.
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Volunteers work in the grass along a trail.
Spring into action with a Volunteer Morning program
3/21/2025Celebrate spring by giving back to nature and helping preserve local habitats. Join the Forest Preserve District for Volunteer Morning program opportunities throughout April, May, and June to make a positive impact on the environment.
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An image indicating a closure
Rock Run trail section, access area closed for improvements
3/20/2025The parking lot at Rock Run Preserve – Paul V. Nichols Access on Essington Road in Joliet and a portion of the Rock Run Greenway Trail are closed for an improvement project to repave and realign the trail. The closure is expected to last several months.
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A man and a woman pose for a photo outside a nature center with woods in the background.
Chapman named incoming executive director by Board
3/17/2025Deputy Director Tracy Chapman of Shorewood will be promoted to executive director in May when current Executive Director Ralph Schultz of Plainfield retires after 32 years with the Forest Preserve District.
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A girl holds a sled.
Be a Trailblazer prizes provide more ways for winners to enjoy nature
3/11/2025Cold weather didn't deter hundreds of people from joining the Forest Preserve's inaugural Be a Trailblazer experience. Around 900 participants completed 14,000 nature-themed missions to reap the benefits of being outside and qualify to win dozens of prizes.
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Image showing three digital newsletters
Stay up to date on Forest Preserve news by signing up for free digital newsletters
2/24/2025Subscribing to the Forest Preserve's free digital newsletters is easier than ever, and it's a great way to stay up to date on the District's news, features, events and programs.
Events
WonderKids: Less Is More!
Bring your little ones to Isle a la Cache Museum for WonderKids.
Lunch and Learn: Planting Natives in the Spring (Zoom webinar)
It’s almost time for spring planting, so spend the lunch hour learning which plants are best to plant in the spring for a summer full of color and life.
The Buzz
Avoid the heartbreak: Check your yard for rabbit nests before mowing
Before you cut your grass, it's a good idea to give your yard a once-over to look for rabbit nests. These nests often look just like a small patch of dead grass, but the babies are just under the surface, leaving them vulnerable to lawnmowers.