Dupage Policy Journal

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.

At the public sessions, District staff will share ideas for the three preserves and request public input on proposed plans for trails and other recreational amenities; natural resource restoration; and infrastructure projects designed to improve habitats, modernize, and improve access at the preserves.

The online open houses will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. each evening. Oct. 11 will discuss Blackwell plans; Oct. 12, Greene Valley; and Oct. 13, Waterfall Glen.

Following this final feedback period, the plans will be revised and put before the Forest Preserve District’s Board of Commissioners for a vote.

Once approved, the master plans will guide the preserves’ development and serve as templates for future master planning efforts at other DuPage forest preserves.

The Forest Preserve District’s 2019 certified five-year master plan calls for updating site-specific plans for each forest preserve. The updated plans will provide a roadmap for the preserves’ future development and include suggested timelines, which will provide context for how each of the projects will affect overall operations and guide the District in budgeting for capital projects.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for more than 100 years. More than 6.2 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, six education centers, and scores of programs each year. For information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the District’s e-newsletter, Facebook, Twitter InstagramandTikTok pages.

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