Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Recent News About Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Scott Eisenmenger Director of Public Safety & Services
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...

Erik Neidy Director of Natural Resources
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.

Ed Stevenson Executive Advisor and Director of Business Enterprise
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...

Erik Neidy Director of Natural Resources
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.

Erik Neidy Director of Natural Resources
Government

New Cromwell Trail opens at Danada Forest Preserve

Local residents gathered on June 10 to dedicate a new trail connection. On Saturday, June 10, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County joined local officials and community members to celebrate the official opening of a new 0.4-mile multipurpose limestone trail at Danada Forest Preserve in Wheaton. The segment connects Cromwell Drive at Butterfield Road to the Danada-Herrick Lake Regional Trail, providing a safer and more convenient link between regional forest preserve trails and Wheaton's bicycle network.

David Pederson Chief of Police
Government

Forest Preserve District's fleet earns national recognition for sustainability efforts

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's fleet has been recognized among the top in the nation, earning significant accolades for its use of alternative fuels. Recently, it was named the No. 1 small fleet and No. 2 overall fleet in the Leading Fleets Award competition by Government Fleet magazine, which honors top-performing fleets regardless of location or budget.