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Seven northern Illinois agencies are launching a regional bike safety initiative in May to promote safe, responsible riding. The effort includes bike safety events, increased patrols and unified trail messaging.

View tiny acorn people and their intimate interactions with nature during the 'Becorns: Little Acorn People Living Big Lives' exhibit from May 3 through June 29 at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook. 

The grand reopening of Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3. The celebration will feature food, live music, activities and a chance to see the renovated building. 

John Fuqua received the Forest Preserve District of Will County's Volunteer of the Year Award and Don and Espie Nelson were given a Lifetime Achievement Award during the annual volunteer banquet.

The Be a Trailblazer challenge is back for spring, offering new missions, nearly $4,000 in prizes, and fresh ways to explore the forest preserves. The spring session runs from April 10 through May 24. 
 

Donate to the Recycle Your Bicycle program from April 12-27 at Hidden Oaks Preserve, McKinley Woods or Monee Reservoir. Or drop a bike off during the Spring Biking Kickoff With REI on April 12 at Prairie Bluff Preserve. 

The 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. 

April 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. 

The 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. 

Smithsonian 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.