For over 100 years the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has strived to protect and improve the county’s natural areas while providing high-quality educational and recreational experiences. Today it manages 26,000 acres of prairies, woodlands, and wetlands — 13% of the total land area of the county — for the people of DuPage County. Each year more than 6.2 million people visit its 60 forest preserves to enjoy 166 miles of trails, 31 lakes, and 47 miles of rivers and streams.
In addition to trails, picnicking, fishing, and open natural areas, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County offers six special destinations: Danada Equestrian Center, Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center, Kline Creek Farm, Mayslake Peabody Estate, St. James Farm, and Willowbrook Wildlife Center. Each has its own distinct exhibits and buildings that focus on the county’s natural or cultural history and has scheduled programs for kids, families, and adults as well as activities and points of interest for casual visitors. The Forest Preserve District also operates three golf courses: The Preserve at Oak Meadows, Maple Meadows, and Green Meadows.
The agency is governed by a seven-member board of commissioners, one elected from each of the county’s six voting districts and a president elected by the county at large. Normally, commission meetings are at 8 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month; planning sessions, 8 a.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays. At both the board hears public comments and staff reports, discusses business, and votes on agenda items.
Check out the Forest Preserve District to learn more about places to go, things to do, plants and wildlife, and how to get involved.
Spotlight Guests
Daniel Hebreard, Board of Commissioners President
Jeannine Kannegiesser, Chief Partnership and Philanthropy Officer
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