Just as quickly as spring arrived, summer is now on the horizon. The Forest Preserves of Cook County are bustling with activity and opportunity. From our Films in the Forest and Forest Jams series to biking and boating, there are endless ways to enjoy the great outdoors close to home.
While the Forest Preserves offer an array of options in terms of recreation, a vitally important facet of our work is research and conservation. Recently, one of the FPCC wildlife biologists, Laura Rericha-Anchor, published a comprehensive book on the plants of the Chicago region. The book, “Flora of the Chicago Region,” was co-authored by Dr. Gerould Wilhelm, and provides an in-depth look at plants, pollinators and the environment. Learn more in this issue of the Forest Way.
Also in this issue is a story on one of the Forest Preserves’ newest programs, the Artist in Residence. In an effort to connect more visitors to nature through art, the Forest Preserves is working with longtime volunteer and artist Kathleen Garness. The public will be able to view her work daily. Watch our Facebook page for images of the artwork she creates while staying in the Forest Preserves.
Finally, this issue of the Forest Way includes ideas on how to spend an hour, a day or even a night exploring the Forest Preserves’ South Zone, as well as information on the 85th anniversary of Trailside Museum of Natural History. We hope you’ll join us as we celebrate this incredible milestone in nature education.
We hope to see you in the Preserves!
Toni Preckwinkle, President
Forest Preserves of Cook County