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Events:

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May 22, 2024 | 5:30 pm

Spring Guided Hike

Join us for s spring guided hike at Jensen Forest Preserve where the fields of lupines are a sight to be seen!

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Bring your binoculars for your visit to Jensen’s forests and wetland that harbor many species of migratory birds, ducks and other waterfowl. This preserve is a favorite roosting area for bald eagles and osprey that fish along the river.

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This is a free hike. Leashed dogs allowed. Please RSVP below.

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J. Norman Jensen Forest Preserve
14400 S. Bluff, Rockton, IL 61072

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June 1, 2024 | 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Walk With U - Guided Walk

Start your Saturday off on the right food with a guided walk at Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve! 

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Walking the trails at Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve will lead you to an exploration of flower-filled prairies, cool shady woodlands, the glistening Kishwaukee River, and a lovely little bubbling natural spring.

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This is a free walk. Leashed dogs allowed. No RSVP needed!

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Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve
5360 Mulford Rd, Cherry Valley, IL 61016

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July 13, 2024 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

R.E.A.P Volunteer Work Day

Become a R.E.A.P. Volunteer and make a difference! This month, we will be collecting native seeds at Cedar Cliff Forest Preserve.

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Experience is not required! Our natural resource experts offer hands-on ecological restoration training, such as invasive plant removal and native seed collection, plus enriching conservation activities when our work is done.

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Please wear appropriate attire; long pants, long sleeved shirts, closed toed shoes, hat, and gloves. RSVP below.

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Cedar Cliff Forest Preserve
7901 Kishwaukee Rd, Stillman Valley, IL 61084

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May 24, 2024 | 8:00 pm

Howl at the Moon Hike

Discover the preserves at night, under the full moon! Join one of our FPWC Deputies for a night hike at Funderburg Forest Preserve & s'mores!

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Funderburg is a prime hiking spot with a variety of habitat that makes it a prime spot for observing all things nocturnal - owls, bats, coyotes, and more!

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This is a free program. Leashed dogs welcome.

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Please RSVP below!

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Funderburg Forest Preserve
4551 S Meridian Road, Rockford, IL 61102

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June 8, 2024 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Hooked on Fun

Our annual Hooked on Fun Kid's Fishing Derby is back on June 8, 2024 at Four Lakes Forest Preserve!

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This free fishing experience, just for kids, is a great opportunity to introduce your kids to fishing in a safe & controlled environment!

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Four Lakes Forest Preserve provides several shallow, small lakes which are easily accessible & provide an ideal setting to introduce & teach kids about fishing.

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Participant prizes & a big fish trophy will be awarded. Staff & volunteers on hand to assist & education. FREE for all - ages 3 to 16.

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Four Lakes Forest Preserve
10207 Fish Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica, IL 61063

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August 17, 2024 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

R.E.A.P Volunteer Work Day

Become a R.E.A.P. Volunteer and make a difference! In August, we will be collecting native seeds at Funderburg Forest Preserve.

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Experience is not required! Our natural resource experts offer hands-on ecological restoration training, such as invasive plant removal and native seed collection, plus enriching conservation activities when our work is done.

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Please wear appropriate attire; long pants, long sleeved shirts, closed toed shoes, hat, and gloves. RSVP below.

Funderburg Forest Forest Preserve
4551 S Meridian Rd, Rockford, IL 61102

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June 1, 2024  | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Backpacking with Burpee

Join us for the next Backpacking with Burpee program at Colored Sands Forest Preserve! 

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We focus on birding & bird calls.Colored Sands known for its birds, its unique geology, and wonderful wildflowers. It offers outstanding panoramic views of the pristine Sugar River. Because of its sandy soil, it supports many plants & wildlife, that are not found anywhere else in the county.

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This class is open to all ages. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Cost: $7/person. Register online (link below).

Colored Sands Forest Preserve
10602 Haas Road, Rockton, IL 61024

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June 15, 2024 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

R.E.A.P Volunteer Work Day

Become a R.E.A.P. Volunteer and make a difference! In June, we will be collecting native seeds at Four Lakes Forest Preserve.

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Experience is not required! Our natural resource experts offer hands-on ecological restoration training, such as invasive plant removal and native seed collection, plus enriching conservation activities when our work is done.

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Please wear appropriate attire; long pants, long sleeved shirts, closed toed shoes, hat, and gloves. RSVP below.

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Four Lakes Forest Preserve
10207 Fish Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica, IL 61063

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September 14, 2024 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

R.E.A.P Volunteer Work Day

Become a R.E.A.P. Volunteer and make a difference! this month, we will be planting nursery plugs at Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve.

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Experience is not required! Our natural resource experts offer hands-on ecological restoration training, such as invasive plant removal and native seed collection, plus enriching conservation activities when our work is done.

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Please wear appropriate attire; long pants, long sleeved shirts, closed toed shoes, hat, and gloves. RSVP below.

Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
16999 Comly Rd, Seward, IL 61077

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