Dupage Policy Journal

Ducks will race to raise money to support the restoration of habitat and the preservation of wildlife in DuPage forest preserves.

The Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County invites thrill-seekers to purchase a chance to win $500 by sponsoring a rubber duck in a race down a restored stretch of Spring Brook at St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville on Sept. 7.

The first-place winner will receive a $500 cash award sponsored by the Wheaton Lions Club. Second place will win two tickets (valued at $200) to the Friends’ “A Night for Nature” event on Sept. 14, also at St. James Farm. Third place will take home an exclusive Forest Preserve District swag package (valued at $50) to showcase their support for the preservation of DuPage County's wildlife and wild areas.

“Our forest preserves provide important habitat for wildlife and help make DuPage County a healthy and beautiful place to live. We are proud to partner with the District to raise funds to help care for these precious places. And we have fun along the way,” says Friends’ board member Karyn Charvat. “We are looking forward to watching the ducks race to the finish along the restored Spring Brook.”

Supporters ages 18 and up can sponsor ducks online at dupageforest.org/friends starting June 12. Ducks are $25 each or five for $100, and only 250 are available. You do not need to be present at the race to win. Online sales will end Sept. 4 at 7:30 p.m.

The competition will start at 10 a.m., from the preserve’s eastern bridge along the service road due north of the indoor riding arena. Depending on weather conditions, it should take about an hour for ducks to complete the 0.5-mile stretch of restored river. Spectators are welcome and should park in the preserve’s main lot off Winfield Road, following the ducks’ path either by creek bank or trail.

Photos and race results will be posted on Friends of the Forest Preserve District's Facebook page by 5 p.m., Friday, Sept.8.

“Funds provided by Friends of the Forest Preserve District help keep invasive plants at bay and nurture native plants," says Erik Neidy, director of natural resources for the Forest Preserve District."Forest preserve restoration and management sustains habitat to preserve our local biodiversity, sequesters carbon, and holds stormwater."

The rubber duck race aims not only to captivate spectators but also supports crucial wildlife habitats' restoration and regional natural beauty preservation efforts.By participating in this event,sponsors contribute significantly towards ensuring future generations cherish DuPage County's nature.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people with nature for over 100 years.More than 5 million visitors annually frequent its various sites.For more information call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org where additional details can be found including links related social media platforms.