Government
Fishing derby set for June at Blackwell Forest Preserve
Fishing, prizes, and family time abound at annual event at Blackwell’s Silver Lake
Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
Recent News About Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
Government
Bridges at Hidden Lake reopened after extensive restoration
This past weekend, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County officials and guests gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the reinstallation of two bridges at Hidden Lake Forest Preserve in Downers Grove. The event, held on National Trails Day, marked the successful completion of another 2019 certified master plan project and enhanced trail access at the preserve.
Government
Scientists to tour innovative landfill treatment system at Mallard Lake
Members of the International Phytotechnology Society will tour the closed landfill at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve in Hanover Park on May 26 to study an innovative method for handling leachate. The site, managed by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, uses an automated irrigation system to distribute leachate to over 8,500 poplar and willow trees across 14.7 acres. These trees absorb the leachate, utilizing its compounds for growth and releasing clean water through their leaves via evapotranspiration. This process reduces both the carbon footprint and costs...
Government
Forest Preserve District urges caution for motorists during turtle nesting season
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has issued a reminder for motorists to be cautious of turtles on the roads as these reptiles become more active in the spring. From April through October, streets near lakes, ponds, and marshes can often see turtles crossing in search of water, food, and mates. Female turtles are particularly mobile from mid-May to mid-July as they seek nesting sites.
Government
Popular forest preserve district amenities open May
Several popular outdoor activities will return to the DuPage forest preserves starting the first weekend in May. Nature enthusiasts can spend a night under the stars at the Forest Preserve District’s 64-site Blackwell Family Campground, which will operate Friday and Saturday nights from May 5 through Columbus Day weekend, with added nights around holidays. Campers can purchase permits online using a desktop computer 24/7 up to a year in advance but must make reservations at least three business days in advance. For additional nights around the holidays, campers should call or...
Government
Forest Preserve District hosts Native Plant Sale May 19-20
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County will host its popular Native Plant Sale on May 19 and 20 at Mayslake Peabody Estate, located at 1717 31st St. in Oak Brook. The sale will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Government
Free wood chips available at DuPage County's Blackwell Forest Preserve
The public is invited to pick up free wood chips while supplies last on Saturday, May 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s native plant nursery on Mack Road, 0.5 miles east of Route 59 at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville.
Government
DuPage Forest Preserve offers volunteer opportunities during Earth Week
Invest in the planet and celebrate service at a local volunteer workday
Government
Graue Mill & Museum opens April 15 with educational programs
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's Graue Mill and Museum, located at 3800 York Road in Oak Brook within the Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, will open for the 2023 season on Saturday, April 15. The site is a popular destination for school field trips and family adventures.
Government
Forest preserve district conducts spring prescription burns
Specially trained crews from the Forest Preserve District will be conducting prescription burns at select sites in the county’s forest preserves over the next few weeks.
Government
Trout fishing event for kids set for March 25 at Wood Dale Grove
Kids ages 15 and under are invited to experience the excitement of catching a fish at “Trout Fishing for Kids” on Saturday, March 25 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Wood Dale Grove Forest Preserve in Wood Dale.
Government
Preserve at Oak Meadows receives multiple accolades
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s The Preserve at Oak Meadows has continued to garner recognition within the golf community. Recently, Jamie Nieto, the facility's golf services supervisor and PGA head golf professional, was honored with the Deacon Palmer Award by the PGA of America. This award acknowledges a PGA professional who demonstrates exceptional integrity, character, and leadership in overcoming significant personal challenges. Nieto is one of 13 recipients for 2023.
Government
Friends group welcomes new board members dedicated to conservation
The Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has welcomed new and renewed board members. The organization engages the community in philanthropy to advance the vision of the Forest Preserve District. The current board comprises 11 volunteers dedicated to conservation and the outdoors.
Government
Registration opens soon for Forest Preserve summer camps in DuPage County
The Forest Preserve District’s summer camps will return for the summer of 2023, with registration opening for DuPage County residents on Feb. 15 and for nonresidents on March 1.
Government
Forest Preserve District advises on coyote behavior during mating season
Late winter marks the mating season for coyotes, prompting the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County to remind residents that sightings of these animals are not uncommon as they search for mates and monitor their territories.