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Picnic and camping permits for 2025 go on sale Thursday, Jan. 2. Permits will be available on a first come, first served basis and can be purchased online or at a visitor center.

Volunteers can meet other environmentally oriented individuals and get some exercise while removing invasive species and making the preserves more hospitable for native plants and animals. 

Sarah Goodin of Channahon won first place in the Fall Frolic installment of the 2024 Take It Outside Challenge. She completed all 212 missions to win a $500 gift card for first place. 

The Forest Preserve District's Board reorganized on Dec. 19 and elected officers for the next two years. Destinee Ortiz of Romeoville was selected as president for the first year of a two-year term, and Judy Ogalla of Monee will serve as president for the second year of the term. 

Eight, free Winter Walkers hikes are scheduled for every weekend in January and February through the Will County preserves. Registration is required for the all-ages hikes, with range from 1 to 3 miles. 

The Forest Preserve District's 2025 calendar is chock full of exciting events and exhibitions ranging from Eagle Watch and a Smokey Bear art exhibition in January to Pelican Party and Woods Walk in the fall. 

The bridge over Thorn Creek has been closed at Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve due to structural safety concerns. The bridge closure has affected the trail system and only the Thorn Creek Nature Center Loop Trail will be open for public use until further notice. 

As the year draws to a close, we look back at the six Will County residents who shared their struggles in life and the successes that followed as they embraced nature for better mental and physical health. The Healing With Nature series details their honest transformations on Forest Preserve paths. 

If you go eagle watching this year, remember to keep your distance so as not to disturb these amazing creatures. If a bird is reacting to you, then you are too close. 

The Forest Preserve District offers a variety of recreational opportunities in winter including hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding. With 135 miles of trails, 40 improved preserves, two sled hills and six dog parks, there are many ways to stay active.