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Aerial view of dam removal at Hammel Woods
When the river wall came down: Video chronicles Hammel Woods Dam removal
11/5/2021Read moreA video titled, "The Dam Project at Hammel Woods" is now available for viewing on the District's YouTube page. The video chronicles the dam removal process and explains why it was necessary and how it was done.
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Black dog at dog park
Keep your dogs safe during excessive heat and humidity
8/10/2021Read moreWith excessive heat and humidity this week, the Forest Preserve District is reminding dog owners to take precautions so their pets don't overheat.
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Police and cyclist on trail
Follow safety guidelines for a safe preserve outing
6/18/2021Read moreKnow which numbers to call and other safety practices before you visit a preserve or trail.
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Woman standing outside old barn
Largest property gift honors donor’s husband and family’s love of land
5/28/2021Read moreLisbet "Beth" Temple of Flossmoor is donating 160 acres in Washington Township near Beecher to the Forest Preserve. The land was purchased by her husband, Dr. Arvid Temple, in 1965, and it was a place where the couple grew vegetables, raised animals and enjoyed nature and being together.
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Raccoons peeking out of tree
'Coexisting with Wildlife' section debuts on website
5/10/2021Read moreThe Forest Preserve's new online feature will help you find information on 16 creatures that you might encounter around your home, in your neighborhood or at a local preserve. The section features the benefits of each and also how to handle potential problems.
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Large dog running at dog park
How to have a successful dog park outing
5/7/2021Read moreFollowing the Forest Preserve District's rules and paying attention to advice from dog experts will help you have an enjoyable and safer experience. Know your dog, stay with your dog and pick up after your dog for the safety and benefit of all involved.
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Coyote in field
Use common sense when encountering coyotes during pupping season
4/29/2021Read moreCoyote pupping season is underway, so it's important to take steps to prevent potential conflicts.
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Old metal dumped in a forest preserve
Destruction not allowed: Don’t tamper with nature or use preserves as dumping grounds
4/26/2021Read moreThe Forest Preserve District's General Use Ordinance No. 124 prohibits the destruction of natural resources and vandalisms in the preserves. The rules are in place to protect Will County's last undisturbed natural areas and to create new habitats for native species and places of respite for visitors.
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Boardwalk at Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve
State transfers Thorn Creek Woods acreage to Forest Preserve
3/8/2021Read moreThe transfer of 466 acres in February gives the Forest Preserve ownership of around 780 acres of the 1,000-acre preserve located in eastern Will County.
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A great horned owl takes off from a tree
Mysterious, night-dwelling owls may just be the coolest birds around
12/31/2020Read moreThe Forest Preserve's Bob Bryerton tells us why owls are such fascinating creatures and why we just can't learn enough about these stealthy, winged beasts.
Events
Turtle Tuesday
Meet some of our ambassador Blanding's turtles up close and learn the story of their journey as an endangered species.
Little Explorers: Reptiles
Bring your children to Four Rivers to learn all about turtles.
The Buzz
Quiz: Test your hummingbird braininess
While these bright and beautiful birds can be seen in our area, learn more about these miniature but mighty marvels.
Nature curiosity: How do flies find garbage and other stinky things?
How do flies find garbage and other sources of stink so fast? They rely on their antennae to help them hone in.