May is an exciting month for the Forest Preserves of Cook County. In addition to the many enjoyable and educational events and programs taking place throughout the County, there are a number of special highlights. We are particularly excited about the premiere of our documentary.

During the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s centennial celebration, we worked closely with WYCC PBS Chicago TV and Juneteenth Productions on a documentary, “Chicago’s True Nature: The Forest Preserves of Cook County.”

This documentary is an excellent opportunity for viewers to learn about the benefits of nature, the impact of open land to our quality of life and what lies ahead in the next century for the one of the oldest and largest forest preserve systems in the nation. 

Also in this issue of the Forest Way, learn about The Big Sit, a signature event of the Forest Preserves’ Bird the Preserves initiative. The Big Sit will be hosted at each of our Nature Centers from 5:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 7. Visitors can join at any time to see how many birds they can see or hear from within a 17-foot circle. In addition to bird watching, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and presentations.

Be sure to also check out the article on the development of a hydrology restoration plan of a 40-acre wetland at Eggers Grove, located on the southeast side of Chicago. The site has long been a popular visiting and nesting area for a variety of birds including a number of threatened wetland species. The plan puts the Forest Preserves one step closer to restoring and conserving this important habitat.

Finally, remember that May is the month during which we honor mothers. Consider celebrating Mother’s Day in Mother Nature, enjoying bird and wildflower walks, hikes or a relaxing picnic in a nearby forest preserve.

We hope to see you in the Preserves!

Toni Preckwinkle, President
Forest Preserves