Dupage Policy Journal

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.

Additionally, the District’s fleet ranked No. 23 in the 100 Best Public Fleets in the Americas competition hosted by the NAFA Fleet Management Association. This competition acknowledges peak-performing public and commercial fleet operations and encourages innovation within the industry. This year marks a decade of consecutive recognition for the Forest Preserve District’s fleet.

Currently, 95% of the District’s more than 170 vehicles are powered by alternative fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas, compressed natural gas, ethanol, biodiesel, hybrid electric, and electric. The District aims to achieve a fully alternative-fuel fleet.

In-house crews maintain both standard passenger vehicles and specialized equipment like mowers and tractors. The use of alternative fuels has resulted in lower fuel expenditures, reduced emissions, and extended vehicle lifespans.

The District also supports local municipalities in reducing greenhouse emissions by providing access to its alternative fuel station at Blackwell Forest Preserve in West Chicago—the first station in Illinois with four different alternative fuels.

“These awards serve as a powerful reminder that when passion meets purpose, remarkable achievements are within reach,” said Forest Preserve District President Daniel Hebreard. “We hope to inspire others to adopt eco-conscious practices as we pave the path toward a cleaner, greener world.”

Michael Webster, assistant director of Public Safety & Services for the District, highlighted the uniqueness of their fleet's variety and focus on alternative fuels. “There’s no doubt that our continued emphasis on alternative fuels contributed to these awards,” Webster said. “We firmly believe that the future of transportation lies in embracing cleaner, greener alternatives.”

For over 100 years, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has connected people to nature. Annually, more than 5.5 million visitors explore its 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, seven education centers, and numerous programs.

For more information about their initiatives or to connect via social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, visit dupageforest.org or call 630-933-7200.