Horizons quarterly // summer 2016

HORI Z ON S LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

PRESERVATION, RESTOR ATION , EDUCATION AN D RECRE ATION

QUARTERLY

Adopt-a-Turtle Become a Turtle Champion.

Learn how you can adopt baby Blanding’s turtles and help them thrive.

summer 2016 VOLUME 25, ISSUE 3

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4

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On the cover: Blanding’s turtle hatchling emerges from a natural nest more than

30,700 acres are

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

protected

by the lake county forest preserves .

BACK COVER

BOARD of COMMISSIONERS

A MESSAGE from

PRESIDENT

ANN B. MAINE PRESIDENT LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

VICE PRESIDENT

meet our

PRIORITY SPECIES

Ann B. Maine, Lincolnshire Linda Pedersen, Antioch TREASURER

S. Michael Rummel, Lake Forest

Leadership and conservation goals outlined in our Strategic Plan emphasize the importance of cooperative work to further our 100-year Vision for Lake County (LCFPD.org/Vision). In partnership with other agencies, and Lake County residents, business owners, volunteers, and others, we can break through constraints on budget and resources, allowing us to maximize results, attract new investments and build public support.

In this spirit, I am excited to announce that we have joined a historic effort initiated by Chicago Wilderness to champion 12 priority species in the region. Strategic collaboration with lead partners including Audubon Chicago Region, The Field Museum, Illinois Natural History Survey, Lincoln Park Zoo, The Nature Conservancy Illinois Chapter, Openlands, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service aims to improve the health of each priority species and their local habitats over the next five years.

The Lake County Forest Preserves will be leading conservation efforts for the Blanding’s turtle, together with Illinois Natural History Survey. As a regional leader, we are researching and monitoring this species at several preserves across the country, one of which contains the largest breeding populations in the state.

Our goal is to foster measurable improvements for the Blanding’s turtle, which are in turn expected to further benefit the flora and fauna that share habitat requirements and management needs.

Learn more about Blanding’s turtle in this issue of Horizons, or by visiting our booth at the Lake County Fair this July, where Blanding’s turtles will be featured (see lcfair.com for details).

ASSISTANT TREASURER

Audrey H. Nixon, North Chicago Chuck Bartels, Mundelein Carol Calabresa, Libertyville Steve Carlson, Gurnee Bonnie Thomson Carter, Ingleside Mary Ross Cunningham, Waukegan Bill Durkin, Waukegan Sandra Hart, Lake Bluff Diane Hewitt, Waukegan Aaron Lawlor, Vernon Hills Steven W. Mandel, Highland Park Sidney Mathias, Buffalo Grove Brent Paxton, Zion Nick Sauer, Lake Barrington Craig Taylor, Lake Zurich Tom Weber, Lake Villa Jeff Werfel, Grayslake Terry Wilke, Round Lake Beach EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ty Kovach

HORIZONS VOLUME 25, ISSUE 3

Summer 2016

EDITOR

Susan Hawkins, Horizons@LCFPD.org CONTRIBUTORS

Linda Curtis, Allison Frederick PHOTOGRAPHY

Callie Klatt (cover), Andrew C., Tim Elliott, Jeff Goldberg, Peter Schultz, Jess Smith/Photosmith, Chip Williams

Blanding’s turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) Illinois status: Endangered

You can support our work to keep Blanding’s turtles healthy in Lake County. Join our new Adopt-a-Turtle program using the enclosed envelope. Any amount you can give will help a little baby Blanding’s turtle thrive. Or, you can even become a Turtle Champion!

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES HOTLINE: 847–968–3335 Horizons is the quarterly publication of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Subscriptions are free. To subscribe, unsubscribe or update your address, call the hotline or email Horizons@LCFPD.org.

Subscribers may also receive mailings from the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

Photo and videos are periodically taken of people participating in Forest Preserve District programs and activities. All persons registering for Forest Preserve District programs/activities or using Forest Preserve property thereby agree that any photo or video taken by the Forest Preserve District may be used by the District for promotional purposes including its website, promotional videos, brochures, fliers and other publications without additional, prior notice or permission and without compensation to the participant.

Blanding’s Turtle Recovery Program One endangered Lake County turtle

needs a head start to survive.

T

he Lake County For-

Through our Blanding’s Turtle

est Preserves has

Recovery Program, we are

monitored a state-en-

committed to restoring popula-

dangered Blanding’s

tions of this endangered, native

turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)

species and to re-establishing

population at two adjoining na-

ecological balance to the habi-

ture preserves since 2004. Initial

tats that they call home.

population modeling completed in 2010 suggested that the population was in decline due, in part, to low juvenile survival caused by very high rates of nest predation (92.3 percent).

Visit our Blanding’s turtle themed booth at the Lake County Fair this July for games, giveaways and more. For tickets and details see lcfair.com.

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CONSERVING Rare species

BLANDING’S TURTLE IS A MEDIUM-SIZED, SEMI-AQUATIC FRESHWATER SPECIES. IT WAS LISTED AS ENDANGERED IN ILLINOIS IN 2009.

Species Status and Threats Blanding’s turtles were listed as threatened in Illinois in 1999 and as endangered by the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Board in 2009.

Road mortality, illegal poaching and collection, and diseases have all contributed to their endangerment.

Blanding’s turtles are considered semi-aquatic turtles and are dependent upon both wetland and open canopy upland habitat for survival. They typically overwinter in muddy bottoms of deep marshes, backwater pools, ponds and streams.

These turtles have large home ranges. Females are known to travel up to two miles to find appropriate nesting locations.

Blanding’s turtles are found from southeastern Canada, south into New England and west through the Great Lakes to Nebraska and Iowa.

Blanding’s turtles are longlived and can attain ages of up to 80 years in the wild. They have delayed maturation, reaching reproductive maturity at about 14–20 years of age.

FROM TOP: BLANDING’S TURTLE HATCHLINGS ARE DARK BROWN TO GREEN IN COLOR; ADULTS HAVE A DISTINCTIVE BRIGHT YELLOW CHIN, AND A YELLOW-SPECKLED, DOMED CARAPACE (UPPER SHELL); THE HINGED PLASTRON (LOWER SHELL) IS YELLOW WITH DARK BLOTCHES.

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Habitat destruction is a contributor, along with habitat fragmentation; both wetland and upland habitats are important. Increasing levels of nest predation by human-subsidized predators, such as chipmunks, foxes, skunks and raccoons is another primary threat.

What We’re Doing We’re tracking turtles to determine the extent of their range and monitor their locations. We’re also working to increase juvenile survival through “head-starting,” where we collect eggs from gravid females and incubate them.

We also work with partners, including Illinois and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy, and Illinois Nature Preserve Commission to restore and protect habitats.

BELOW: A SIGN WARNS DRIVERS TO WATCH FOR TURTLES, TYPICALLY CROSSING IN SEARCH FOR A SPOT TO LAY THEIR EGGS IN MAY AND JUNE; A SKUNK IS CAUGHT PREDATING A MONITORED NEST.

WE ARE DEDICATED TO CONSERVING THE ENDANGERED BLANDING’S TURTLE A CHICAGO WILDERNESS PRIORITY SPECIES

CHICAGO WILDERNESS, A REGIONAL CONSERVATION ALLIANCE, HAS ANNOUNCED A HISTORIC EFFORT TO CHAMPION 12 SPECIES IN THE METROPOLITAN AREA. These priority species represent globally rare ecosystems in parts of Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and Michigan. Chicago Wilderness aims to improve the health of each of these species and their habitats over the next five years. Efforts will range from restoring woodlands and river systems to planting pollinator-friendly native gardens.

Key Chicago Wilderness organizations have stepped forward to drive efforts for each species, including Audubon Chicago Region, The Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, The Nature Conservancy, Openlands, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

The Lake County Forest Preserves will be leading conservation efforts for the Blanding’s turtle, in partnership with Illinois Natural History Survey.

This is the first time that Chicago Wilderness, which includes more than 200 organizations, has rallied around such a focused group of animal species to advance measurable, onthe-ground change.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? Do not feed raccoons or other wildlife. Keep pet food and water dishes indoors.

Never release pets and risk spread of disease. Do not bring wild animals inside as pets.

Conserve water; reduce use when possible.

JOIN THE CAUSE.

Volunteer to remove invasive species (see LCFPD.org/volunteer).

Become a Turtle Champion by adopting a baby Blanding’s turtle at the $120 level. Your gift will give a baby Blanding’s turtle a head start and help it thrive. All gift levels help the turtles. Use the enclosed envelope to direct your gift to our Adopt-a-Turtle program.

Drive carefully when near ponds, lakes and wetlands.

Check for turtles under your car before driving away.

Support natural resources agencies (like us!).

Become a Turtle Champion.

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Special Feature

SEDGES ­

by Linda Curtis

Linda Curtis

Thank goodness for the Lake County Forest Preserves! So many of my photos for my books Woodland Carex (2006) and Bog-fen Carex (2015) were taken in our Lake County Forest Preserves.

Carex are difficult to photograph, so I focus first on a well-known plant that is an associate, then reposition myself again and again to photograph them together. The two plants convey a truth that nature photographers often omit. Plants do not live alone. Above and below ground, they share space for nutrients and moisture. Some introduced plants are space and water hogs, and so weaken the native plant’s ability to make flowers with seeds, or rhizomes with shoots.

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Close to 190 species of Carex are known in Illinois.

They can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, prairies and dunes. As birds of a feather flock together, so sedges grow with other species that have the same soil, water and light requirements. The shade-tolerant wildflowers of the forest grow with numerous Carex species which photographers often push aside to “get the shot.”

Showy plants make good cameos, but the “family” photo with the associates is important in a different way, as it shows what typically grows with what. For example, a Jack-in-the-pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) seldom grows alone—see those grassy tufts of sedges nearby (below, left)?

If those grass-like leaves belong to Carex, you’ll feel the difference between your thumb and forefinger. Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) in low flatwoods has several species of Carex growing among their leaves (below, center),

The two plants convey a truth that nature photographers often omit­— plants do not live alone. including brome hummock sedge (Carex bromides) a state-threatened species, which prefers wet habitats. Distinguishing sedges from round-stemmed rushes and hollow-stemmed grasses is easy if you remember “sedges have edges.” This rhyme refers to the stems of sedges, which form a triangle shape in cross-section.

Like birders, some Carex “sedgers” have a life list of the sedges they have seen. Every trip to a forest preserve in Lake County adds another and another.

Linda Curtis is author of two books on sedges. When she’s not sedge-hopping in Lake County, Curtis writes short stories and poems about life’s interesting conundrums. Find more on her website at curtistothethird.com.

Linda Curtis

Linda Curtis

BELOW, CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT; CAREX WITH: LARGE-FLOWERED TRILLIUM, PRAIRIE TRILLIUM, MARSH MARIGOLD, AND JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT.

GARDENING WITH SEDGES Carex is the largest North American plant genus with nearly 500 species.

Sedges are perennials that resemble grasses and grow in a variety of environments. Some sedges grow in shallow water or moist soils, while others are found in upland areas, such as dry prairies.

One of the best ways to bring nature into our lives is to welcome it into our own backyards. Sedges grow well in our gardens because their environmental niche is in places where soil, water, and light conditions are typically too harsh for other plants. Endless varieties bring color, texture and movement to your garden as their leaves gently ripple in the breeze.

Carex seeds are an important food source for birds. They also support the insects many birds use to feed their young. The plants are host to many species of caterpillar. Submerged portions of aquatic sedges are home to invertebrates that provide food for aquatic species.

Some sedges are evergreen, remaining green under the snow. Deer use sedges as a winter food source, and early flowering sedges provide deer with a nutrient rich food in April.

Sedge leaves are used by certain bird species in nest building, as their rough edged leaves grip each other tightly and hold the nest together.

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PRESERVENEWS SUMMER DISCOVERY

The close of the Lake County Discovery Museum’s current exhibitions on August 31 marks the end of an era.

Don’t miss your chance to visit the Museum this summer and view the exhibitions before it closes.

ANIMAL ARCHITECTS EXHIBITION, 2009 LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM (WAUCONDA)

MUSEUM SET TO CLOSE, TRANSITION TO NEW LOCATION

On September 1, the Lake County Discovery Museum will close its doors at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda, pack up its vast collections and move to its new location at our General Offices in Libertyville. A grand opening of the new Museum is anticipated in late 2017. Check LCFPD.org/Museum for progress updates and follow us on Facebook @LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum for reveals of neverbefore-displayed collection items coming out of storage in preparation for the move.

The Museum’s new home provides several enhancements, including a more central location in Lake County accessible by public transportation; a purpose built collections care facility, public research center and library; new and expanded exhibitions to tell Lake County’s story; and expanded special exhibition galleries. In addition, Museum staff will develop a new interpretive plan, with field trip opportunities and educational programs for Lake County residents of all ages.

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Never-before-seen photographs of Adlai E. Stevenson II on assignment for Look magazine as he traveled the world and met with heads of state are featured in the special exhibition Around the World in 180 Days: Adlai E. Stevenson II 1953 World Tour.

Learn about Lake County’s story in the Mall of History and the Growing Up in Lake County exhibition.

Civil War Days and other special events will continue to be held at Lakewood in 2016 and beyond. See page 12 for details on this year’s Civil War Days event.

WALKING TOGETHER FOR YOUR GOOD HEALTH!

LET THEIR WORDS INSPIRE YOU

We’ve teamed up with the Lake County Health Department and NorthShore University HealthSystem to organize Rx for Health, a walking program that brings together naturalists and physicians for guided tours of some of our most scenic forest preserves. Stroll through woodlands and prairies while improving your health and knowledge of nature. During the walks, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with a NorthShore physician about the health benefits of exercise and outdoor activities. Walks range in length from 1 to 2 miles, and are free for all ages.

They take place, rain or shine, on specific Saturdays starting at 4 pm. See calendar on page 10 for upcoming walks, or visit LCFPD.org/RX-for-Health.

At our annual volunteer recognition event, we asked our dedicated volunteers what inspires them to help us in our conservation and education efforts. Their words encourage us in our work and we hope they will inspire you, too.

“Nature puts everything in perspective. You can simply look around and count your blessings.

Makes my spirit blossom, allowing me to re-seed this passion to everyone around me.”

“It’s good, clean fun! It also reduces the stresses of my day job.”

“People I meet; information that I learn; satisfaction of volunteering for an organization that promotes and preserves nature.”

“Being part of the Forest Preserve team. They don’t pay you, but the benefits are fabulous.”

Learn how you can get involved at LCFPD.org/Volunteer.

STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE

LCFPD.org/vision

School-based education is the largest single type of contact between the Forest Preserves and Lake County youth. In 2014, the Forest Preserve Board adopted 13 strategic objectives, one of which is a commitment to increase the number of Lake County schools using our educational resources by 5 percent each year. We are happy to announce that the goal has been met for 2016, giving thousands of Lake County school children an educational experience within their Lake County Forest Preserves. Visit LCFPD.org/education to learn how your local school can get involved.

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The Preservation Foundation is the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

Gifts of all sizes are meaningful and help support projects and initiate programs that may otherwise go unfunded or take many years to complete. Learn more at LCFPD.org/Donate.

BRINGING RARE ANIMALS BACK TO THE FOREST PRESERVES

The Board of the Preservation Foundation recently approved a $47,368 grant to reintroduce wildlife in the preserves. Thanks to Preservation Foundation donors, rare species such as wood frogs and meadow jumping mice are returning to lands throughout Lake County. To help in this effort, contact the Foundation at 847-968-3434.

NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE HELPS CHILDREN UNPLUG THIS SUMMER

It’s a fact that time spent in nature fosters healthy development in children. Help your child unplug this summer in one of our many summer camps, which embrace the surroundings of your forest preserves. A very big thank you to our 2016 Summer Camp Lead Sponsors Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital with outpatient centers in Glenview and Grayslake. Learn more at LCFPD.org/camps.

SAVE THE DATE!

Fred Fest returns on Saturday, August 20 at Fox River Preserve in Port Barrington.

For details and tickets, visit LCFPD.org/FredFest.

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RAISE SOME DOUGH FOR THE FOREST PRESERVES

UNO Pizzeria & Grill in Gurnee will donate 20 percent of your bill to the Preservation Foundation, through September 30. Visit once or many times this summer to raise some dough for the Forest Preserves!

RAY LAKE FOREST PRESERVE GROWS AGAIN

This spring, our Board approved the purchase of two new parcels of land as additions to Ray Lake Forest Preserve (Wauconda)­— 61.8 acres in March (White property) and 29.4 acres in April (Diebold property). Real estate closings should be complete this summer.

BIGGER, BETTER PRACTICE FACILITY AT COUNTRYSIDE

Golfers at our Countryside Golf Club (Mundelein) will be welcomed this year by an upgraded practice facility. The driving range teeing area is now 30 percent larger, allowing more than 60,000 square feet of perfectly manicured blue grass. The teeing area drainage has also been improved to increase usability throughout the season. The driving range is open now, but the new teeing area will open sometime in June. Whether you’re warming up for your next round or just enjoying the sunshine with friends, Countryside’s driving range is a great place to be. Get rates and book tee times at CountrysideGolfClub.org.

These new parcels adjoin a larger 338acre addition (Cuneo property) and another 15-acre addition (DesMarais Estate property), which both closed in February. All together, these properties increase Ray Lake’s total acreage to 1,039, making it the sixth largest forest preserve in Lake County.

HIKE LAKE COUNTY

Enjoy fall breezes and autumn colors while exploring designated “Hike Lake County” trails. Complete just seven of the hikes by November 30 and earn a commemorative shield: LCFPD.org/HLC. LAK E COUNTY FOR E ST PRE S E RVES

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SUMMER CALENDAR Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated.

For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration, visit LCFPD.org or call 847–968–3321.

For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.

JUNE 1 Habitat Walk for Seniors Explore some of the many habitats found in Lake County, learning as you walk. Walks are paced to the group’s ability.

Wednesday, 9–10 am, Old School—Trails lot.

Seniors ages 62 and up.

FREE. No registration required.

4, 11, 18, 25 Forest Fitness One-hour guided nature walk. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturdays, 8–9 am, for weekly locations see LCFPD.org/FF. Adults. FREE. No registration required.

4, 11, 18, 25 Rookery Watch Join us for viewing of nesting herons, cormorants and other waterfowl. Supported by Lake County Audubon volunteers.

Saturdays, 8 am–12 pm, Almond Marsh.

All ages.

FREE. No registration required. Spotting scope provided.

4 Walk with a Naturalist Get outside and enjoy a one-hour guided nature hike at a different preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Sedge Meadow.

Adults.

FREE. No registration required.

5 Kids Nature Funfest Nature Rocks! We’ll explore the simple pleasure of playing with rocks, sticks, mud and more.

Join us for a fun-filled, creative afternoon with live animals, nature play, art and exploration.

Let your inner child “Rock with Nature!”

Sunday, 1–4 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center. Families with children 12 and under. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network event.

9 Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started.

Thursday, 9–10:30 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion. Families with children ages 5 and up. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

Valid IL Fishing License required for ages 16 and up.

10 Community Campfire Friday Nights Bring your friends and family to roast marshmallows, share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.

11 Quickstart Canoe Intro to paddling in a tandem canoe. We’ll cover the basics: attire, safety and paddling skills.

Saturday, 9 am–12 pm, Independence Grove—Funbrella.

Adults, families with children ages 9 and up. $29 residents, $41 nonresidents.

16 Look, Learn, Create­—Paleoart Learn about the dinosaurs of Lake County and how paleoartists bring prehistoric animals to life, then become a paleoartist yourself and design your own dinosaur to take home.

Thursday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum. Children 5–12, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child—includes Museum admission.

18 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Rollins Savanna—Washington Street entrance. All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

23 Sunset Stroll Join us as we explore Hastings Lake as day turns to night.

Thursday, 7–8:30 pm, Hastings Lake—Shelter A. All ages.

Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.

25 Bilingual (English/Spanish) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Wright Woods.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

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Did you know? Most people in Lake County live within 15 minutes of at least one forest preserve. Find trail maps online at LCFPD.org/maps.

JUNE (continued) 25 Walk on the Wildflower Side Uncover the secrets of wildflowers. Learn the folklore and healing powers they hold.

Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Rollins Savanna—Washington Street entrance. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

29 Little Sprouts­—Planting a Seed Help plant the garden at Bonner and sow seeds to take home.

We’ll learn about how seeds sprout and tour the garden.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

29 Amphibians of Lake County Join us at Wright Woods to meet and learn about our local amphibians.

Wednesday, 1–2:30 pm, Wright Woods—Pond. Families with children ages 4 and up. Adult supervision required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

30 Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home Public Tours Learn about this Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour his home, a National Historic Landmark.

Thursday, 1–2 pm & 2:30–3:30 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

JULY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Forest Fitness One-hour guided nature walk. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturdays, 8–9 am, for weekly locations see LCFPD.org/FF. Adults. FREE. No registration required.

2 Walk with a Naturalist Get outside and enjoy a one-hour guided nature hike at a different preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Ray Lake.

Adults.

FREE. No registration required.

5 Invertebrate Animal Olympics Come learn about invertebrate (animals without backbones) adaptations and compete against them in a fun animal Olympics. Then we will search for some live invertebrates.

Tuesday, 4–5 pm, Fox River—Shelter B. All ages. Adult supervision required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

6 Habitat Walk for Seniors Explore some of the many habitats found in Lake County, learning as you walk. Walks are paced to the group’s ability.

Wednesday, 9–10 am, Grant Woods—Monaville Road entrance, Shelter A. Seniors ages 62 and up.

FREE. No registration required.

5, 6, 7 Families Exploring Have you ever wished you could attend our summer camps with your kids? Now you can! Experience summer camp fun as a family. This program is structured like our camps for kids with activities, crafts, and hands-on exploration in the preserve.

Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday, 6–8:30 pm, Van Patten Woods. Register for one or more days.

Families with children ages 4 and up. $12 adult/$6 child residents, $16 adult/$8 child nonresidents.

Pricing is per day.

7 Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started.

Thursday, 9–10:30 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion. Families with children ages 5 and up. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

Valid IL Fishing License required for ages 16 and up.

8 Fireflies by Firelight Bring the kids out for a night of catching (and releasing) fireflies while enjoying a roasted marshmallow next to a cozy campfire.

Friday, 8–9 pm, Ryerson Woods—Classroom Cabins. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.

9 Scout Saturday­—Insect Study Merit Badge Spend the afternoon collecting and learning about Lake County insects as you work toward your Insect Study Merit Badge.

Saturday, 1–5 pm, Ryerson Woods—Classroom Cabins.

Ages 10–17. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.

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Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated.

For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration, visit LCFPD.org or call 847–968–3321.

For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.

JULY (continued) 9, 10 25th Annual Civil War Days History comes to life at one of the largest reenactments in the Midwest, featuring battles, period demonstrations, kids’ activities and Civil War-era shopping.

Daily schedule, coupon: LCFPD.org/civilwar. Saturday, 10 am–5 pm & Sunday, 9 am–3 pm, Lakewood. Daily: $10 adults, $5 youth (ages 4–17) & seniors (62 and up), 3 & under FREE. Weekend pass: $15, $7 youth & seniors. Purchase tickets online and save $1 on admission.

12 Hikin’ Tykes­—Turtles Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration for you and your preschool child.

Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Lakewood—Shelter C. Children ages 2–4, with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 children nonresidents.

JUL 14–AUG 11 Wildlife in Motion Want to experience a camp program with your young one but can’t take a week off? Try it one day a week—each session highlights a different way animals move. Fly, crawl, hop, swim and slither together through hands-on nature activities, exploration, stories, crafts and interaction with live animals.

Thursdays, 9–11 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion.

Register for one or more days.

Children ages 4-5 with an adult. $7 residents, $10 nonresidents per child.

Limit two children per adult. Pricing is per day.

16 Phenology and Photography Outdoor workshop for serious amateur photographers.

Naturalists will guide you around the lake in a 34-foot Voyageur canoe, searching for photo subjects of seasonal interest.

Saturday, 6–9 am, Independence Grove— North Bay Pavilion.

Adults, youth ages 16 and older. $20 residents, $28 nonresidents.

16 Bilingual (English/Spanish) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Half Day—first lot on the right. All ages.

Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.

16 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Middlefork Savanna.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

20 Little Sprouts­—Watching it Grow Get your hands dirty in the garden and find out what plants need to grow and thrive.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

21 Look, Learn, Create­—Indigenous Art Learn about the Native peoples of Lake County, view indigenous art and create an art project to take home.

Thursday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children 5–12, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child—includes Museum admission.

22 Community Campfire Friday Nights Bring your friends and family to roast marshmallows, share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center.

All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.

23 Bluebird Home Tour Learn about eastern bluebirds and our wildlife monitoring program as you tour the nest boxes to see if anyone’s home.

Saturday, 8:30–10 am, Ryerson Woods—Classroom Cabins.

Adults, families with children 6 and up. Adult supervision required. $6 residents, $8 nonresidents.

23 Nature Open House—Heron Creek Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of hands-on nature exploration. Scavenger hunts, guided hikes and live animals will introduce you to the natural wonders of Heron Creek.

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Saturday, 1–3:30 pm, Heron Creek—Shelter B. All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

Join the Skokie Valley Astronomers at Ryerson Woods on the second Friday of each month. Learn about topics in astronomy and stargaze with members’ telescopes, weather permitting. For dates and topics, visit LCFPD.org/astronomy.

JULY (continued) 27 Family Nature Walk­—Dragonflies Explore the beauty of Middlefork Savanna while searching for dragonflies.

Wednesday, 10–11:30 am, Middlefork Savanna.

All ages. Adult supervision required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

28 Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home Public Tours Learn about this Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour his home, a National Historic Landmark.

Thursday, 1–2 pm & 2:30–3:30 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

28 Sunset Stroll Join us as we explore Van Patten Woods as day turns to night.

Thursday, 6:30–8 pm, Van Patten Woods—Sterling Lake Boat Launch. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.

30 Walk on the Wildflower Side Uncover the secrets of wildflowers. Learn the folklore and healing powers they hold.

Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Sedge Meadow—Wadsworth Road entrance. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

31 Canoeing the Des Plaines River Enjoy the scenery and hear about the natural history along a stretch of the Des Plaines River.

Sunday, 9 am–1 pm, Des Plaines River—specific location will be emailed to participants a few days before the program date.

Adults. $40; includes equipment rental and car shuttle.

AUGUST 6, 13, 20, 27 Forest Fitness One-hour guided nature walk. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturdays, 8–9 am, for weekly locations see LCFPD.org/FF. Adults. FREE. No registration required.

1 Wonderful Water Discover one of the lakes that make our county so special, and see what lives in the wonderful world of water.

Monday, 4–5 pm, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion.

All ages. Adult supervision required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

2 Playdate with Nature Move your kids outdoors for unstructured seasonal play activities, proven healthful and beneficial for children of all ages.

Tuesday, 9:30–11 am, Wright Woods.

Children of all ages, caregivers. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.

3 Habitat Walk for Seniors Explore some of the many habitats found in Lake County, learning as you walk. Walks are paced to the group’s ability.

Wednesday, 9–10 am, Raven Glen—Route 45 entrance.

Seniors ages 62 and up.

FREE. No registration required.

3 Little Sprouts—Eggcellent Adventures We’ll take a closer look at the inside of an egg and the cute creatures that hatch out.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

6 Walk with a Naturalist Get outside and enjoy a one-hour guided nature hike at a different preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Greenbelt—Dugdale Road entrance.

Adults.

FREE. No registration required.

6 Summer Night Hike Experience the preserve after the sun sets on this guided hike that focuses on nocturnal animal adaptations and insect sounds.

Saturday, 8–9:30 pm, Grant Woods—Cedar Lake Road entrance.

Adults. $6 residents, $8 nonresidents.

7 Guided Nature Paddle—Aquatic Mammals of Lake County Find out what aquatic mammals live in or near the waters of Lake County while paddling a canoe.

Sunday, 6–8 pm, Van Patten Woods­—Sterling Lake Boat Launch. Adults, families with children ages 9 and up. $13. Paddling equipment provided.

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Registration required for all programs unless otherwise indicated.

For detailed program descriptions, specific meeting locations, directions and registration, visit LCFPD.org or call 847–968–3321.

For updates outside of normal business hours, call 847-968-3113.

Obedient plant is a summer perennial native to Lake County prairies—so named because a flower pushed to one side will often stay in that position.

AUGUST (continued) 9 Hikin’ Tykes—Hummingbirds Nature-based story, craft and outdoor exploration for you and your preschool child.

Tuesday, 9:30–10:45 am, Ryerson Woods Welcome Center.

Children ages 2–4, with an adult. $5 adult/$2 child residents, $7 adult/$3 child nonresidents.

13 Bilingual (English/Spanish) Nature Hike One-hour guided nature hike. Explore a new preserve each month.

Saturday, 9–10 am, Greenbelt—Shelter A. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.

13 Rx for Health—Walking in Nature Join a health professional and an educator on this walk to explore the preserve as we improve our health.

Saturday, 4–5 pm, Lyons Woods.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

17 Fishing Drop a line and see if the fish are biting. We’ll supply the poles, bait and tips on getting started.

Wednesday, 9–10:30 am, Independence Grove—North Bay Pavilion. Families with children ages 5 and up. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents. No registration required.

Valid IL Fishing License required for ages 16 and up.

17 Little Sprouts­—Fresh from the Garden Pick fresh produce from the garden and make a healthful snack. Learn why fruits and veggies are so good for us.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

18 Look, Learn, Create­—Lake County Artists View and discuss the work of Lake County artists and create a work of art to take home.

Thursday, 10–11 am, Lake County Discovery Museum.

Children ages 5–12, with an adult. $6 adult/$2.50 child—includes Museum admission.

19 Community Campfire Friday Nights Bring your friends and family to roast marshmallows, share stories and enjoy nature at night. Activities vary monthly.

Friday, 7–9 pm, Greenbelt Cultural Center­.

All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required. A Lake County Nature Network Event.

20 Fred Fest A full line-up of bands and kids activities. All net proceeds benefit the Preservation Foundation.

Saturday, 1 pm—dusk, Fox River.

All ages.

Buy tickets online at LCFPD.org/FredFest.

20 Film Festival in the Woods Bring your picnic basket and lawn chair to enjoy a variety of acclaimed short films inspired by nature. Presented in partnership with Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods.

Saturday, 7–11 pm, Ryerson Woods—Brushwood Center.

All ages. Suggested donation: $10. Registration recommended.

To register and for more info, see BrushwoodCenter.org.

21 Guided Hike Lake County Guided walk on seven of this year’s Hike Lake County trails.

Walk a new trail each session.

Sunday, 2–3:30 pm, Raven Glen—Route 45 entrance.

All ages. Adult supervision required.

FREE. No registration required.

25 Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home Public Tours Learn about this Illinois governor and ambassador to the United Nations as you tour his home, a National Historic Landmark.

Thursday, 1–2 pm & 2:30–3:30 pm, Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home. Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

25 Sunset Stroll Join us as we explore Rollins Savanna as day turns to night.

Thursday, 6–7:30 pm, Rollins Savanna—Washington St. entrance. All ages. Adult supervision required. FREE. No registration required.

27 Walk on the Wildflower Side Uncover the secrets of wildflowers. Learn the folklore and healing powers they hold.

Saturday, 10 am–12 pm, Old School­—Trails lot.

Adults, families with children ages 8 and up. $5 residents, $7 nonresidents.

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Through August 31 Growing Up in Lake County: Exploring History through the Stories of Children Have you ever wondered what life was like for children in the past? Growing Up in Lake County shares the everyday and extraordinary stories of children who grew up in the county.

Lake County Discovery Museum

Through August 31 Around the World in 180 Days: Adlai E. Stevenson 1953 World Tour Never-before-seen photographs document Adlai E. Stevenson II while on assignment for Look magazine. Stevenson was hired to go on a sixmonth tour of Europe and Asia to report on social, political, and economic conditions in over 30 countries. Follow Stevenson as he meets with the young Queen Elizabeth II in England, Prime Minister Nehru in India, Prime Minister Ben-Gurion in Israel and other heads of state, interacts with local citizens, and sneaks out to visit local markets, all while assuming the role as America’s unofficial diplomat to the world.

PHOTO COURTESY CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS

Lake County Discovery Museum

AUGUST (continued) 28 Fact or Fiction Are daddy long legs venomous? Does rattlesnake master cure a rattlesnake bite? We’ll separate fact from fiction while exploring Van Patten Woods.

Sunday, 10–11 am, Van Patten Woods—Shelter D. All ages. Adult supervision required. $2 residents, $4 nonresidents.

31 Little Sprouts­—Mooing and Milking Learn to milk using our model cow, find out how milk is turned into delicious dairy products and churn your own butter.

Wednesday, 10–11 am, Bonner Heritage Farm.

Children ages 2–5, with an adult. $3 residents, $5 nonresidents, no charge for chaperones.

SUMMER CONCERTS EVENTS IN THE PLAZA Independence Grove, Libertyville

Bring lawn chairs and blankets for these outdoor musical performances, beginning at 7:30 pm. Arrive early to secure your spot; cars are turned away when parking is full. Parking is $6 per car after 5 pm on event days. There are no rain dates.

June 14 R-Gang Kick off our summer concert series with one of the best Motown, R&B, funk and soul bands in the Chicago area.

June 21 Cash Box Kings Nominated for three 2016 Blues Music Awards at the BMAs, come see why this group is called one of the ‘best blues bands in the land.’

July 12 Special Consensus

Aug 2 Bopology

This four-person acoustic band plays high-energy bluegrass influenced by a variety of genres for every music taste.

The bold and brassy sound of the ‘30s, the Lindy Hop dancing, foot-tapping jump-blues of the ‘40s and the cool jazz of the ‘50s are brought to life by these six talented Chicago musicians.

July 19 The Cavern Beat Back by popular demand, this fab foursome brings to life the magic, authentic look and sound of the Beatles.

June 28 The Adam Ezra Group

July 26 Bumpus

Lead singer Adam Ezra’s live passionate performances have been compared to those of Bruce Springsteen.

Chicago funk and soul heavy hitters hearken to the great progressive albums of the ‘70s, with modern pop appeal.

August 9 Mr. Myers Kick off your sandals and groove to an original sound influenced by calypso, ska, reggae, and rock and roll.

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SPECIAL FACILITIES Directory GENERAL OFFICES

OPERATIONS AND PUBLIC SAFETY

1899 West Winchester Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048

19808 West Grand Avenue Lake Villa, Illinois 60046

847-367-6640 tel 847-367-6649 fax 847-968-3155 TDD

847-968-3411 tel (Operations) 847-968-3404 tel (Public Safety) 847-968-3116 fax

8 am –4:30 pm, Monday–Friday

6:30 am –3 pm, Monday–Friday

911 emergency 847–549–5200 nonemergency public safety issues

OUTDOOR RECREATION

EDUCATION

GOLF

INDEPENDENCE GROVE

RYERSON CONSERVATION AREA

THUNDERHAWK GOLF CLUB

16400 West Buckley Road Libertyville, Illinois 60048

21950 North Riverwoods Road Riverwoods, Illinois 60015

A Robert Trent Jones Jr. championship golf course

847–968–3499 Main 847–247–1111 Banquets, Meetings

847–968–3320 LCFPD.org/Ryerson

39700 North Lewis Avenue Beach Park, Illinois 60099

IndependenceGrove.org Visitors Center Hours 9 AM–4:30 PM, unless otherwise posted For beach, marina and café seasonal hours and fees visit our website.

Parking Fee Lake County residents FREE Nonresidents $5 per car Monday–Thursday $10 per car Friday–Sunday and holidays Vehicle window stickers allow entry without stopping to verify residency. Fee is $5, available at the Visitors Center.

FOX RIVER MARINA 28500 West Roberts Road Port Barrington, Illinois 60010 847–381–0669 FoxRiverMarina.org

Welcome Center Hours 9 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Saturday 11 AM–4 PM, Sundays Restroom only, Mondays Brushwood Center Hours 9 AM–3 PM, Monday–Thursday 1–3 PM Sundays, or by appointment GREENBELT CULTURAL CENTER 1215 Green Bay Road North Chicago, Illinois 60064 847–968–3477 GreenbeltCulturalCenter.org Office Hours

847–968–3100 847–968–3441 847–489–1931 847–968–3450

Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets

ThunderHawkGolfClub.org BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB 33600 North US Highway 45 Grayslake, Illinois 60030 847–968–3100 847–968–3441 847–489–1931 847–247–1119

Tee Times Golf Gift Cards Golf Outings Banquets

BraeLochGolfClub.org COUNTRYSIDE GOLF CLUB

11 AM–5 PM, Tuesday–Friday

Prairie & Traditional Courses

LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM

20800 West Hawley Street Mundelein, Illinois 60060

27277 North Forest Preserve Road Wauconda, Illinois 60084

Boat Launch & Marina Hours

847–968–3400 Main 847–968–3381 Archives, Research

For hours and fees visit our website.

LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum.org Museum Gallery Hours 10 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Saturday 1–4:30 PM, Sunday Adults $6, Youth 4–17 $2.50, 3 years and under FREE 62 and up $3 daily Discount Tuesdays: Adults $3, Youth 17 and under FREE

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LCFPD.org

847–968–3100 Tee Times 847–968–3441 Golf Gift Cards 847–489–1931 Golf Outings CountrysideGolfClub.org

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES FOREST PRESERVE Entrance/Parking

More than 30,700 acres make up your Lake County Forest Preserves.

Most preserves are open 6:30 am –sunset, daily. If a preserve gate is open before 6:30 am , the preserve is considered open for use.

MAP CURRENT AS OF

Friday, April 15, 2016

FOREST PRESERVE EASEMENTS STATE LAND (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources) CANOE LAUNCH DOG AREA COMMUNITY GARDEN

LCFPD.ORG DES PLAINES RIVER TRAIL M CCLORY TRAIL / NORTH SHORE PATH (L.C. Division of Transportation) MIDDLEFORK GREENWAY Planned section

GRAND ILLINOIS TRAIL Planned (Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources) FORT HILL TRAIL Planned (L.C. Division of Transportation)

PRAIRIE CROSSING TRAIL (L.C. Division of Transportation)

CHAIN O’ LAKES BIKE PATH

CASEY TRAIL

Planned (L.C. Division of Transportation)

GENERAL OFFICES OPERATIONS FACILITY

MILLENNIUM TRAIL Planned section

LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES GENERAL OFFICES 1899 WEST WINCHESTER ROAD LIBERTYVILLE ILLINOIS 60048

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THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED USING 100% RECYCLED PAPER, ALLOWING US TO SAVE 61 MATURE TREES, 19,733 LBS GREENHOUSE GASES, 6,008 LBS SOLID WASTE

The Des Plaines River Trail Challenge As you may be aware, the Des Plaines River Trail, running the length of Lake County, was completed late last year. After more than 54 years in the making, how will we celebrate? We present you with the Des Plaines River Trail Challenge: travel the entire 31.4 miles of this amazing gem, from start-to-finish. Complete your journey—by foot, bike or boat—between August 1 and November 30, in as many increments as you choose.

Accept the Challenge and you receive bragging rights and a sense of accomplishment, of course. We’ll top that off with a commemorative reward, our hearty congratulations and a place on our Challenge Wall of Fame. We plan surprises along the way, social media experiences and opportunities to be a trail ambassador, inspiring others to appreciate Lake County’s natural wonders. For details, visit LCFPD.org/DPRTchallenge.

CIVIL WAR DAYS History comes to life at the 25th annual Civil War Days reenactment, featuring battles, demos, kids’ activities and Civil War-era shopping. See page 12 for details or visit LCFPD.org/civilwar.

◄ FLICKR PICK Common sedge posted by Jeff Goldberg via Flickr. Connect with us! For up-to-theminute Forest Preserve news and events: Find us on Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, or YouTube @LCFPD. Download our mobile app in the Apple App Store or Android Play Store—search for “Lake County Forest Preserves.”