Dupage Policy Journal

The DuPage Forest Preserve District invites the public to provide feedback on proposed plans for Blackwell, Greene Valley, and Waterfall Glen forest preserves at open houses scheduled for June 11. During these sessions, District staff will present ideas and gather public input on recreational amenities, trails, natural resource restoration, facilities, and infrastructure at the preserves. The aim is to improve the natural environments of the preserves while modernizing and increasing access to popular recreational amenities.

An online survey is also available through June 24 at dupageforest.org for those who wish to view and comment on the plans. Following this stage, the Forest Preserve District will revise the proposed plans based on feedback before presenting them again for another round of public input. The final plans will then be submitted to the board of commissioners for a vote.

Once finalized, these master plans will guide future development of the preserves and serve as templates for planning efforts at other DuPage forest preserves. According to the District’s 2019 master plan, updating site-specific plans for each preserve is essential. These updated plans will outline timeframes for projects that will help in budgeting for capital projects and assessing their impact on overall operations.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for over 100 years. Annually, more than 6.2 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, which feature 166 miles of trails, six education centers, and numerous programs. For more information or to participate in the survey, visit dupageforest.org or call 630-933-7200.

"We strive to connect all people to nature," stated a representative from the District. "We're committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and providing facilities, programs, and activities free from discrimination or harassment."