Current headlines

Rob Gowens and Samantha Eberhardt are among more than 1,000 people who are participating in the yearlong Take It Outside Challenge. Gowens was looking for something to do in retirement, and Eberhardt is having a blast completing missions with her husband and four children. 

The Forest Preserve District is reminding visitors to keep safety in mind as they venture out into the preserves to enjoy the milder weather we've been experiencing. Keep valuables locked away, or leave them at home. And travel on trails with a partner whenever possible. 

Four acquisitions pushed the Forest Preserve over the 23,000-acre mark in 2022. Land acquisitions will continue in 2023 with the $3 million that is left in a land preservation program fund. 

The Forest Preserve District's 2023 budget is balanced and its tax rate will drop 6.46% next year. The spending plan includes money for operations, maintenance and preserve improvement projects. 

A dozen state-threatened redspotted sunfish have been added to a 'gorgeous' new 2,000-gallon aquarium at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center. The fish ambassadors will educate visitors about the plight of threatened and endangered fish species in Illinois. 

The Rev. Adrian Heath grew up on the east side of Joliet where his recreational outings were held mostly indoors. He now leads a ministry that offers free nature outings in area preserves. It's his way of helping others find the peace that nature offers. 

Born with a tumor on his spine and paralyzed since he was eight months old, Bill Bogdan of Mokena is extremely active in adaptive sports and loves nature. His lifetime of exploring the preserves, especially Hickory Creek Preserve near his home, has inspired his daughter, Hannah, to seek a career in adaptive outdoor recreation. 

Improvements are coming to the Forest Preserve District's extensive trail system. Some of the work will take place this year, and other projects are part of long-range plans with multiple partners. 

Some of the land was purchased, some donated and some was transferred from the state.

The Forest Preserve District's newsletter, The Citizen, which debuted 40 years ago, has a new name, a refreshed look and a new mix of content that is designed to inform, entertain, inspire and educate readers. You can subscribe to The Compass with a click of a mouse to receive this weekly digital publication in your email inbox. Current subscribers to The Citizen do not need to sign up a second time to receive The Compass.