Join the Lake-to-Prairie Chapter of Wild Ones and Ann Maine, President, Lake County Forest Preserve District, as she updates us on several major restoration projects underway by the Lake County Forest Preserve District.

Date: Tuesday, March 6, 2012, 7:15 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.
Location: Ryerson Woods Welcome Center
21950 N Riverwoods Rd
Riverwoods, IL 60015
For Directions Phone: (847) 968-3321
Speaker: Ann Maine, President,
Lake County Forest Preserve District

Oaks are one of the main elements in the Illinois landscape. But due to invasive plants, urban development, and environmental pressures, our oaks are suffering. The LCFPD has been researching the oaks along the southern Des Plaines river to better understand the current situation, what has impacted the oaks, and what can be done to restore the vigor of the native oak landscapes. Ann will review the work that has been undertaken and discuss some of the options being considered to restore this native treasure.

We may not think of Wisconsin as being important to our parks, but it is. The LCFPD is working actively with Wisconsin in the restoration of the Chiwaukee Illinois Beach Lake Plain. This area is a major strip of contiguous land running from Chiwaukee Prairie in Wisconsin down through Illinois Beach State Park and Lake Bluff. Ann will present pictures and discuss the ongoing work to restore this area, including the management of cattails and other invasive wetland plants.

As President of the Lake County Forest Preserve District, and as an active environmentalist, Ann is in a unique position to oversee the stewardship of our natural resources. Time allowing, Ann will share other key activities of interest.