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Press Release: Adam Bianchi Nominated as Forest Preserves of Cook County General Superintendent

new general superintendent Adam Bianchi

President Toni Preckwinkle taps Bianchi to lead “the next chapter of the Preserves” pending a confirmation vote by the Board of Commissioners

UPDATE: Adam Bianchi was elected as the General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The appointment was made at the Board of Commissioners Meeting on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

Forest Preserves of Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle has nominated Adam Bianchi to serve as the General Superintendent of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. The Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners will vote on the appointment at their meeting on July 1.

With more than 17 years of experience in public land and natural resource management in the United States Forest Service, Bianchi would bring a history of leadership, innovation and collaborative conservation to the Forest Preserves of Cook County, one of the oldest and largest forest preserve systems in the country.

“Over the last 15 years, the Forest Preserves has transformed as an institution, becoming a leader in ecological restoration in a highly developed landscape, in connecting a diverse population to the wonders of nature, and in operations and transparency,” said Forest Preserves of Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle. “Adam Bianchi’s experience, energy and perspective are an outstanding fit as General Superintendent for the next chapter of the Preserves.”

Bianchi previously served as District Ranger for the White River National Forest’s Dillon Ranger District in Colorado. Just over an hour west of Denver, the 312,000-acre site includes nearly 500 miles of hiking, mountain biking and winter sports trails, two Congressionally designated wilderness areas, two major reservoirs, 14 campgrounds, and four world-class ski resorts: Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin.

During his time in Dillon Ranger District, Bianchi developed comprehensive plans that both protect land and offer recreation opportunities; worked with municipal, county, tribal and state staff; brought in additional resources with innovative funding mechanisms; and translated law and policy into real-world accomplishments. As a key member of the Forest Leadership Management Team, he collaborated on plans, policies and objectives for the 2.3-million-acre White River National Forest.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the next General Superintendent at the Forest Preserves of Cook County. This marks an exciting opportunity in my career dedicated to conserving forests, wildlife habitats and wetlands, while expanding access and welcoming more people to connect with their incredible public lands. I look forward to working with President Preckwinkle, the Board of Commissioners, staff, partners and all the people of Cook County to continue and expand the great work that is happening at the Preserves,” Bianchi said.

Bianchi joined the USDA Forest Service in 2008 and has also served in the Lassen National Forest in California, the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan, and the Rocky Mountain Regional Office in Colorado. A graduate of Iowa State University, he is the recipient of numerous awards, including Rocky Mountain Region Forester’s Ranger District of the Year in 2023 and USFS Chief Honor Award in 2022.

At the Forest Preserves of Cook County, Bianchi will oversee more than 70,000 acres that include campgrounds, trails, boating centers, picnic groves, golf courses, aquatic centers and more. Each year the Preserves offers hundreds of programs and events at its six nature centers and at preserves around the County. The Forest Preserves is committed to protecting native habitats in Cook County, building community partnerships, and promoting equitable access to nature for future generations.

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About the Forest Preserves of Cook County
Don’t you sometimes just want to escape? Explore the natural beauty of Cook County for an hour, a day or even a night. When you’re surrounded by 70,000 acres of wild and wonderful there’s no better place to feel free.