The Centennial Campaign Plan (2013) was developed to celebrate the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s anniversary over a multi-year span (2013-2015).

The Centennial Campaign of the Forest Preserves of Cook County is an opportunity to define a vision for the next hundred years and attract new audiences.

Like all forest preserve districts throughout Illinois, the Forest Preserves, at their core, are about protecting and preserving natural areas for plant and animal diversity and for the recreation, pleasure and education of all.

What makes the Forest Preserves of Cook County different? It was the first, set aside for us by visionaries. It is the largest, covering nearly 69,000 acres. Its lands are among the most geologically and biologically rich natural areas in the United States, with wooded wetlands, tall grass prairies, oak woodlands, savannas and more. It provides unparalleled benefits to people who live here, such as clean air and clean water – whether they ever set foot in the preserves or not.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County are about more than nature. They are about the people of this area. They successfully merge people in an urban environment with nature. The preserves provide a place to escape. A place to experience beauty. A place to become rejuvenated. A place to experience freedom. A place to experience quiet.

The Forest Preserves are important to Chicago’s identity, economic viability and quality of life and should be as appreciated as our lakefront.

The Centennial campaign aims to inspire a sense of wonder. A passion for discovery. A reconnection to nature. All made possible by the Forest Preserves of Cook County.