A DuPage Forest Preserve District volunteer program initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic has been named one of four finalists for the Illinois Governor’s Hometown Award. The winner will be announced at the Illinois State Fair on August 18.
A ceremonial groundbreaking was held Tuesday to celebrate an ambitious $25.5 million master plan project for Willowbrook Wildlife Center, transforming the center into DuPage Forest Preserve District’s first net-zero-designed building.
Visitors invited to celebrate new lot, safer access to one of the most popular preserves
The Forest Preserve District invites citizens to provide feedback on proposed plans for Blackwell, Greene Valley, and Waterfall Glen forest preserves at three online open houses on Oct. 11, 12, and 13 or via an online comment form. Those interested in participating can register in advance and find the plans at dupageforest.org/what-we-do/projects/master-plans.
The Forest Preserve District recently hosted an event to celebrate the installation of a new solar power system at its Fleet Management building. The ceremony featured several notable attendees, including U.S. Rep. Sean Casten and multiple Forest Preserve Commissioners.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is urging drivers to exercise caution and remain vigilant to avoid collisions with deer this fall, a period when the risk of such accidents significantly increases.
Customers can buy permits 24/7 online or Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Visitor Services by phone at 630-933-7248 or at Forest Preserve District headquarters, 3S580 Naperville Road in Wheaton.
"If you fall through the ice, turn toward the direction you came from because that’s probably the strongest ice," Jones said. "Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, kick your feet, and try to pull yourself out using ice picks if you have them. Once you’re out of the water, lie flat on the ice and roll away from the hole. Get to a warm, dry, sheltered area as soon as possible, and call 911."
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's newly elected seven-member Board of Commissioners, all incumbents, took their oaths of office this week and determined the lengths of their terms. Marsha Murphy will continue to represent District 1; Tina Tyson-Dunne, District 2; Linda Painter, District 3; Jeff Gahris, District 4; Barbara O’Meara, District 5; and Al Murphy, District 6. Board president Daniel Hebreard will continue to represent the county at-large.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Board of Commissioners has unanimously approved the agency’s 2023 budget and annual appropriation ordinance. The $130 million budget includes $44.9 million in operating expenses and $60.3 million in capital expenses.
Despite a slow start to winter, forecasts predict cold and snowy weather soon. The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County advises safety precautions for those enjoying ice fishing, snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities.
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.
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.
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.
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.