Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has announced that its wildlife treatment and education center in Glen Ellyn, formerly known as Willowbrook Wildlife Center, will reopen this fall as the DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center at Willowbrook Forest Preserve.

The rebranding underscores the center's renewed focus on conservation and highlights its various wildlife-related activities, including rehabilitation, propagation of endangered and threatened species, and public education on peaceful coexistence with local wildlife. The new name also reinforces the center's connection to DuPage County as its national reputation grows.

Undergoing extensive improvements as part of the Forest Preserve District's 2019 master plan, the center will feature a new 27,000-square-foot wildlife rehabilitation clinic and visitor center. This facility will be the District’s first net-zero designed building, generating more energy from renewable resources than it consumes.

Key features of the revamped DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center include outdoor and indoor animal rehabilitation areas, interactive educational exhibits on wildlife rehabilitation processes, an outdoor classroom, an interpretive trail with wildlife observation areas, and outdoor activity spaces demonstrating harmonious living with native wildlife. Existing staff offices will be converted into lab space for expanded propagation of endangered and threatened species.

Despite ongoing construction, the animal admittance area remains operational to ensure continued care for injured and orphaned wildlife. The visitor center is expected to reopen to the public in late 2024.

Originally named Willow Brook in 1956 after Glencrest Creek flowing through the preserve, it was later renamed Willowbrook Wildlife Center in 1993.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County aims to enhance residents' quality of life through its management of 26,000 acres comprising woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways. These efforts contribute to cleaner air and water, flood control assistance, vital habitats for wildlife, and safe spaces for physical and mental health improvement. Over 5.5 million people visit its forest preserves annually.

For more information about the Forest Preserve District or its programs and facilities free from discrimination or harassment promoting diversity, equity inclusion visit dupageforest.org or call 630-933-7200.