Calendar of Events SUMMER 2014
FREE! Summer Camp Info Included
Discover nature’s treasur1es in “your own backyard!” Welcome Welcome to the Four Rivers!
The watersheds of the Rock, Sugar, Pecatonica and Kishwaukee Rivers in northwest Illinois contain a wealth of natural beauty and resources. The Four Rivers Environmental Coalition created this guide to environmental events and organizations to help residents and visitors discover the rivers, prairies, woodlands, wild flowers and wildlife that are “in our own backyard.” Dozens of environmental organizations in our area provide marvelous opportunities for students, families and individuals of all ages to explore our natural heritage. Perhaps you’re looking for educational programs that meet school curriculum for field trips, home school or scout troops. Or, maybe you’d enjoy the adventure and fun of a fossil hike, wildflower walk or bird banding tour. Let this seasonal brochure be your guide to discover and appreciate the environmental treasures of the four rivers area of northern Illinois. For more information contact the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District at 815-877-6100 or [email protected]. or visit www.fourriver.org
Cover photo by Tracey Kamman
2 The Four Rivers Environmental Coalition Welcomes Your Donations to Enable us to Educate and Advocate for the Preservation of the Natural Resources and Environmental Assets of the Four Rivers Region
The Four Rivers Environmental Coalition is an alliance of public and private organizations. Its purpose is to advocate, educate and plan for the protection of the natural resources and biodiversity in the watersheds of the four rivers region of northern Illinois. The Rock, Kishwaukee, Sugar and Pecatonica are each unique and beautiful rivers rich with historical, recreational and biological value. The goal of the FREC is to provide a platform for partnership and leadership in the protection of these natural assets that are critical to this area’s economy and health. For more information or to make a tax-exempt donation, contact the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District, 815/877-6100. The Four Rivers Environmental Coalition has established a tax-exempt charitable fund with the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. To make a donation please contact the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois at 815/962-2110. Checks may be written payable to the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois with Four Rivers Environmental Coalition noted in the memo line, and sent to 946 North Second Street, Rockford, IL 61107. Please call the Foundation if interested in making a credit card contribution to the Coalition fund.
Four Rivers Environmental Coalition Projects and Initiatives
A River Gathering Co-Sponsor of 2009 Winnebago County Celebrating the beauty, ecology and Green Business Awards recreation of our rivers May 2009 June 20-22, 2013 Celebrate Earth Regional Earth Day Green Drinks Rockford Events Campaign Ongoing series of networking social April - May 2009 focused on environmental topics see Green Drinks Rockford on Facebook Leave No Child Inside series in The Rock River Times 2008-2010 Co-sponsor BioBlitz at Angelic Organics Learning Center BioBlitz, Day of Discovery, September 15, 2012 Byron Forest Preserve May 17 2008 Co-sponsor of Earth Matters Community Earth Day Celebration Annual Earth Day April 21, 2012 Environmental Celebration April 26, 2008 Co-Sponsor with Wild Ones “Bringing Nature Home: How Native Green Harvest Partnership with Plants Sustain Wildlife” Cliffbreakers Restaurant to support local October 20, 2011 environmental organizations August - September 2007 A River Gathering Celebrating the beauty, ecology and Operation Migration Whooping Crane recreation of our rivers Conservation Public Presentation June 2011 October 10, 2006 at Burpee Museum Moral Ground: Ethical Action for a Planet Publication of Educator’s Guide to FREC In Peril Community Book Discussion Environmental Education Programs October 30, 2010 March 2005 Into the Wild natural areas series in Four Rivers For Life poster project The Rock River Times April through December 2005 2010
3 Please consider making a donation to help fund the production of this FREE booklet!
The FREC Calendar of Events is a quarterly publication created by our members in order to help guide residents and visitors in the discovery of rivers, prairies, woodlands, wildflowers and wildlife “in our own backyard.” Dozens of environmental organizations in our area provide marvelous opportunities for students, families and individuals of all ages to explore our natural heritage. Is it any wonder this colorful booklet is in demand for distribution in brochure racks, coffee shops, museums, medical office waiting rooms, recreational facilities and forest preserves?!
The Calendar of Events is distributed free of charge to individuals and organizations. This is important so information is easily accessible and can get into the hands of people from various demographics in our communities. The production cost for this valuable publication has been covered by Four Rivers Environmental Coalition Members for the last six years. The Four Rivers Environmental Coalition is inviting your financial support of nature programs and environmental events by sponsoring a portion of the printing cost for our signature publication.
Sponsorships of any amount will be appreciated. For an annual contribution of $500 or more you will be recognized in four issues of the Calendar Events Sponsor page. Quarterly, approximately 10,000 people view the 3,000 brochures and this gives you an opportunity to reach an audience of individuals, community members and business leaders who care about protecting nature and outdoor recreation. Your contribution is tax deductible.
Help support this region’s environmental community by contributing to the production of this free educational resource. Please, make checks payable to the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (with the notation 'Four Rivers Environmental Coalition' in the memo line) and send your contribution to: Jamie Johannsen, 5500 Northrock Drive, Rockford, IL, 61103.
Thank you for your support!
4 SEprinvg 2e01n4 Etvesnts & Pro gPramrs ograms
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Get Outside! free outdoor recreation passport June 7th through August 1 Forest Preserves throughout Winnebago County Discover Nature, Win Stuff! Get Outside! is a back-to-nature event that is FREE and accessible for all ages. Participating families will function as a “team” and are encouraged to engage in a friendly competition as they explore forest preserves. Register to receive a Get Outside! passport; this will be your coupon book for free admission to 35 FREE activities! Participate in just a couple of several. Form a team of two or more and compete with other teams to see how many points you can earn hiking, paddling, camping, golfing and exploring nature. Bring your passport with you to all the self-guided and scheduled activities and have it validated so you can earn points to qualify for a grand prize! Not all of your team members need to attend every activity. Passports documenting 20 points or more will be entered into drawings for grand prizes.See the full schedule of events and register for Get Outside! at wcfpd.org .
Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful Weekly Event, Year-Round Roscoe & Rockford Recycle Centers 9 a.m. – Noon, Saturdays, all year-round Two locations: • 13125 N. Second Street, Roscoe (IL 251 access road, half-mile north of McCurry Road) • 4665 Hydraulic Road, Rockford (off South Alpine), sponsored by UTC Aerospace Drive-through free drop-off site for household recycling accepting corrugated cardboard; paper; egg cartons; co-mingled #1 and #2 plastic bottles without lids, glass food containers without lids, aluminum and tin or metal food cans; plastic 6-pack rings; bagged textiles and clothing; metals, appliances, electric cords and electronics (but no TVs, appliances with Freon, or propane tanks.) Watch for special recycling events on Facebook – “like” our page at www.facebook.com/KeepNorthernIllinoisBeautiful. For more information or to volunteer for a shift, visit www.knib.org, call Volunteer Coordinator Martha Byrnes at 815-637-1343, email [email protected] .
5 Boone County Conservation District Volunteers Wanted Ongoing Do you like being outdoors and meeting new people? We would like you to volunteer and become part of the very first Conservation District in the state. Call the volunteer coordinator at 815-547-7935. Come alone or bring a friend with you.
Boone County Conservation District Girl Scout Programs Ongoing $25.00 per troop in county, $30.00 per troop out of county BCCD is a preferred provider and has programs that align with the Girl Scout Journeys and that address many of the badge requirements. Programs are approximately two hours in length and can be scheduled weekdays or evenings based on availability. For more information contact Tina at [email protected] or http://www.bccdil.org/scout-troup-leaders/ .
Natural Land Institute Stewardship Days Ongoing Volunteers are invited to help with a variety of stewardship tasks at NLI preserves including seed collection, planting, and invasive weeds and brush removal. Be prepared to work outside and bring your own refreshments. Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Work the entire day or part it. For more information, to confirm when you will help and for location directions call Kevin Rohling, Director of Stewardship at 815-218-0210. Holidays excluded. • Every Wednesday Crew at Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Rd., Rockton • Every Thursday Crew at Howard D. Colman Dells Nature Preserve, southwest of Rockford (Contact crew leader Lois Winkel, [email protected] ) • Fourth Friday Workday at Burr Oak Valley Preserve, Roscoe • Second Saturday Stewardship Day at Howard D. Colman Dells Nature Preserve, southwest of Rockford • Third Saturdays at Silver Creek Preserve, southwest of Rockford (Contact crew leader Dion Faith, [email protected] 815-520-6916)
6 Natural Land Institute Dianne Nora Nature Trail Ongoing Nygren Wetland Preserve, Wildlife Overlook West Rockton and Hansberry Roads, Rockton, Illinois The Dianne Nora Nature Trail is a 2.5- mile trail around the wetland available for birding, hiking, jogging and cross-country skiing that offers many opportunities to see wildlife and experience the beauty and solitude of the Nygren Wetland Preserve. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free. This trail is in the Prairie State Conservation Coalition’s hike app trail system. The Prairie State Hike app is available for apple and android platforms for 99¢ and includes information about the preserve and Natural Land Institute. The trail was established in memory of Dianne Nora by a generous gift from her family. Watch for closed signs during migration season. The parking lot is closed during the winter, but access to the trail is allowed for hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. Rockton Township owns and manages the land where the parking lot and overlook are located at the trail head.
Natural Land Institute Twitter Book Chat Ongoing NLI has started a book of the month club that encourages reading and discussion of nature themed books. Use the hashtag moniker: #NLIbookchat to follow the chat and make comments. Follow us on Twitter @NLI1958 . Check our Twitter page and our events page at Facebook.com/NaturalLandInstitute for the monthly book and chat dates.
7 Natural Land Institute Instagram Seasons Snapshots Photo Contest Ongoing From now through November submit any number of snapshots using #NLIphotocontestJune (#NLIphotocontestJuly, #NLIphotocontestAugust, etc.) on Instagram for our monthly Seasonal Snapshots photo contest. Photos should be taken at an eligible preserve. There will be monthly prizes and a grand prize winner in December. Follow us at NLI1958 and check our Facebook.com/NaturalLandInstitute events page for the monthly theme and hashtags. Photos must be from one of these eligible preserves that NLI has helped protect or owns: Beach Cemetery Prairie Nature Preserve (Davis Junction), Colored Sands Forest Preserve (Shirland), Franklin Creek Nature Preserve (Franklin Grove), Freeport Prairie Nature Preserve (Freeport), Harlem Hills Nature Preserve (Loves Park), J. Norman Jensen Forest Preserve (Rockton), Jarrett Prairie Nature Preserve (Byron), Kyte River Bottoms Nature Preserve (Oregon), Lyndon Prairie Nature Preserve (Rock Falls), Nygren Wetland Preserve (Rockton), Potawatami Woods Forest Preserve (Kirkland), Searls Park Prairie Nature Preserve (Rockford), Stone Bridge Nature Trail (Roscoe).
Atwood Center Stewardship Saturdays 2nd Saturday of the month 9:00 am – 11:00 am Seth B. Atwood Park is a diverse 334 acres complete with prairie, woodland, river and wetlands. Each of these areas needs special attention and you can help! Join Environmental Recreation and Education staff and learn a little more about one of these areas. After a brief lesson, we will put on our gloves and see how we can help maintain the second largest park in the Rockford Park District. All ages are welcome and snacks will be provided. Groups of five or more, please call 815-874-7576 and let us know you are coming. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
8 Rockford Park District Hiking Club 2nd Tuesday of the month 9:00 am – 10:00 am Come take a walk and explore nature with Environmental Recreation and Education staff from Atwood Center in one of the area’s beautiful parks or forest preserves. Each 60 minute hike will begin promptly at 9:00 am. Please check the RPD website for each month’s location, or call the Atwood Center at 815-874-7576. No registration is needed for this drop-in program.
Boone County Conservation District Summer of 2014 small group garden tours The Boone County Conservation District in Belvidere, IL is home to five Heritage Gardens that represent gardens planted by the four major European ethnic groups that settled in Boone County in the early 1800’s, and by the Native Americans that lived in Boone County before European Settlers. The gardens are also home to two authentic cabins, Norwegian and Scottish, which were built in the 1830’s. The Heritage Gardens represent Potawatomi, German, Scottish, Norwegian and Yankee ethnic groups. To retain as much authenticity as possible, the B.C.C.D. staff has researched and obtained as many varieties of heirloom vegetables as possible that were available to the people who settled the Boone County area between 1830 and 1870. Please consider the Heritage Gardens as a destination for your group outings for 2014. For a $5 per person fee interpreters in period clothing will provide a tour of the gardens and the cabins. Group tours may be scheduled July-September. For more information or to schedule a visit please contact Pam Stock at 815-547-7935.
9 Byron Forest Preserve District Guided History Canoe Tours of the Rock River – Byron to Oregon, Illinois Saturday, May 31 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Meet at the Jarrett Prairie Center Take a scenic guided local history canoe tour down the Rock River from Byron to Oregon with Superintendent of Education and local historian Mark Herman. This two hour paddle tour will feature stories about the land and historic places that can be seen along the shore of this scenic stretch of the river. We will take out above the Oregon Dam at Oregon Park East and end the day with a tour of the 1883 Chana School Museum. For ages 12 and up. Must have at least one adult per canoe. Cost is $20 per canoe/$10 per person (two person minimum & up to three related people in each canoe). Call 815 234-8535 to register by the Wednesday prior to each trip.
Boone County Conservation District Camp Ducktails and Camp Redwing June, July and August Spots Still Available Camp Redwing and Camp Ducktails are still accepting registrations until spots are filled. Call the office at 815-547-7935 for more details or stop in for a registration form or visit www.bccdil.org for a form. Hurry!! Camp Redwing is an outdoor environmental education day camp for children ages 6 – 11 years and runs June 23rd thru August 1st. Each week offers a new theme, fishing, crafts, labs, swimming, a family night, field trip and lots of outdoor fun! Cost per week: $100/residents $120/non-residents Camp Redtail is an outdoor adventure camp for youth ages 12 – 15 years. It offers two 4-day overnight camping trips where participants learn basic camping skills and Leave No Trace principles. This year’s trips are backpacking in the Porcupine Mountains and horseback riding at Turkey Run State Park, Indiana. Equipment is provided, no experience necessary. Cost per trip: $200/residents $220/non-residents Camp Ducktails is a half-day outdoor preschool camp for young children ages 4 and 5. It meets one morning a week for 5 weeks. Nature themes are explored each week and includes story-time, snack- time, and of course playtime! Cost per morning: $15/residents $20/non- residents There are scholarships available to qualifying families for each camp. Check out photos from last summer on our Face book page!!
10 Byron Forest Preserve District Old River Tales Musical Theater Play Sunday, June 1 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Jarrett Prairie Center Prairie View Room Old River Tales is an original musical play about life around Rockford and the Rock River Valley from the frontier beginnings in the 1830’s up until 1900 as it was settled by many different ethnic groups. The play includes famous characters such as Abraham Lincoln, the warrior Black Hawk, Albert Spalding and Jane Addams. Additional characters, the Irish, the Swedes and emancipated African American slaves represent the many diverse populations who, while risking everything, fled to the Rockford area for a better life. The play runs for two hours with one intermission. Between and during dramatic scenes, the performers will sing 15 well-known 19th century songs such as “Down by the Riverside”, “Rock of Ages” and “Swing Low Sweet Chariot.” This is a FREE program open to all ages. Call 815-234-8535 for more information.
Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful Crayon Recycling Drive 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday, June 2-13 Office at 5417 N. Second Street, Loves Park 9 a.m. – Noon Saturdays June 7, 14 at Recycle Centers 13125 N. 2nd Street, Roscoe or 4665 Hydraulic Rd., Rockford Broken and discarded crayons collected at the end of the school year or from day cares and home-school families are brought to the Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful office for recycling. Over the summer, volunteers will melt them down to make new crayons. To volunteer, please call first for scheduling. Drop-offs accepted during business or Recycle Center hours only. For more information refer to the website www.knib.org , the Facebook page for Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, call Community Relations Coordinator Martha Byrnes at 815-637-1343 or email [email protected] .
11 Byron Forest Preserve District Summer Day Camps June 2 to August 8 (Ten different week long sessions) 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. with Latchkey option 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. & 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Jarrett Prairie Center The Byron Forest Preserve District offers different special activities and field trips each week all planned around a theme. Campers will also participate in traditional camp games, activities and crafts while taking advantage of the Jarrett Prairie Preserve’s trails and open spaces. For ages 6 to 12 years. Cost is $100 per child each week and $10 for the morning or afternoon latchkey option. Discounts for siblings are available. Call 815-234-8535 to register and go on-line to see the different weekly themes at www.byronforestpreserve.com .
Byron Forest Preserve District Preschool Adventure Camps June 2 to July 24 (Four different two week sessions) 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday) Keller Education Center Adventure camp is a great way to introduce your child to a new social environment. It is designed as a play group to help your child get ready for preschool or to spend time with their friends over the summer. This camp is held in the Keller Education Center with its state-of-the-art education facilities and play areas as well as outside in the prairies and forests of the Jarrett Prairie Preserve. For ages 3 to 6 years. Cost is $40 per session. Call 815-234-8535 to register and go on-line at www.byronforestpreserve.com .
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Elderberry Trails Series June 3-5 and June 10-12 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Come to one or come to all of these awesome walks. Join Scott Kruger on this series of walks just for those that want to enjoy nature at a great pace…slowly. We are giving you a reason to get up and get out and enjoy the great 12 Forest Preserves we have in this area. The walks will be easy and about an hour or an hour and a half in length. Get some exercise, see some birds, and learn where the great trails are in the County, whatever excuse you need, just get there. Sorry no kids allowed on these walks, just those over 40 (or at least old enough to drive) and that are kids at heart. No fee, but please call for reservations so we can notify you if there are changes and let you know of the meeting spots. 815-335-2915.
Tuesday, June 3 Hononegah Forest Preserve Wednesday, June 4 Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve Thursday, June 5 Sugar River Forest Preserve Tuesday, June 10 Kieselburg Forest Preserve Wednesday, June 11 Severson Dells Forest Preserve Thursday, June 12 Stone Bridge Forest Preserve
Co-Sponsored by: Severson Dells Nature Center and Natural Land Institute 2014 Wildflower Walkabout - Explore North Central Illinois Searls Prairie Nature Preserve Wednesday, June 4 6:00 p.m. Jack Armstrong, Rockford Park District board president and Nathan Hill, Rockford Park District staff, will take us on this hike to Searls Prairie, owned by the Rockford Park District. It is dominated by mesic and wet-mesic prairie where prairie dropseed, Indian grass, big bluestem and little bluestem grow. The site is one of the highest quality wet prairies in the state. Easy hiking, but the area may be wet. The park is at the intersection of Central Avenue and Safford Road in Rockford. Enter from Central Avenue. No fee for the walks, but membership in SDNC and/or NLI is encouraged! Please contact SDNC: 815-335-2915 or NLI: 815-964-6666 for more information. Come experience the north central Illinois landscape. Walk where flowers carpet the forest floor and birds fill the air. Severson Dells Nature Center and the Natural Land Institute are the organizing agencies of the event, with local groups providing leaders from their organizations.
13 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Yoga Thursdays, June 5-26 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Strengthen, stretch, and gently tone your way to a healthy mind, body, and soul while being surrounded by tropical greenery. This class is appropriate for all ages and abilities. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 to register.
University of Illinois Extension Perennial Plant Communities - With perennial plant expert and author Roy Diblik Held at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens Thursday, June 5 5:30 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. – 8:30 pm Roy Diblik, author and owner of Northwind Perennial Farm, will present a two-part presentation on perennial gardening and how to create cohesive, beautiful, and ecologically compatible perennial plant communities. The first presentation will be held from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., followed by a book signing & beverage and appetizer break. His second presentation will be from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. Beverages and appetizers served. This is a free community event. Registration required at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw .
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Nia Fridays, June 6-27 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Nia is a holistic fitness practice that combines the grace and fluidity of the dance arts with the power and precision of the martial arts and the awareness of the healing arts. Nia promotes strength and muscle definition, and awakens you to sensation. You’ll tighten, tone, lengthen, strengthen, lose pounds and inches – and have fun while you’re doing it. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
14 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2014 Garden Fair Friday, June 6 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday, June 7 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, June 8 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Klehm Arboretum and BMO Harris Bank are pleased to present the 21st annual Garden Fair. For more than two decades, Garden Fair has been the premier place to shop for flowers, shrubs, tools, outdoor art and other garden–related items. The event attracts more than 5,000 visitors every year. With over 80 exhibitors, it’s the area’s largest outdoor living marketplace and there’s something for everyone. Tickets are good for admission all three days. Advanced Tickets $5 | Admission $8 at the door. Klehm members are FREE when they show their membership card. Order tickets at klehm.org or 815-965-8146
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Get Outside! Kick-off Celebration Saturday, June 7 12:00 – 3:00 pm Hononegah Forest Preserve #80 Hononegah Road, Rockton, IL 61072 This will be a fun family-oriented afternoon of learning and activities to give you a preview of all the hiking, paddling, camping, fishing, river study, gardening, and nature discovery that will be offered through Get Outside! This kick-off is where you can pick up your passport and all the information and materials you need to take advantage of free summer fun in the forest preserves. Nature displays, guided hikes, outdoor recreation, free refreshments and door prizes! Stay for free camping!
15 Sinnissippi Audubon Atrazine Day- river monitoring Saturday, June 7 Help monitor our region's rivers and creeks for atrazine. The first great herbicide used on corn crops was atrazine. It turns out that this chemical is not good for critters and humans. After years of use, and even after being discontinued, it persists in our environment. If you wish to help test our local waters on a day when organizations all over the midwest are coordinating their efforts to investigate atrazine levels, contact Larry McPheron at 815-978-0251.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Home-milked Ice Cream Saturday, June 7 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Can you guess which ingredients in ice cream come from the farm? Together, we’ll milk the goats, visit the beehive, and look for fruit around our organic farm. Then, we'll make up a batch of home-grown, homemade ice cream. We'll even get to eat this sweet treat together. Yum! Please register for each family member age 3 and up. $11 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Cheesemaking Saturday, June 7 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. This hands-on workshop in our farm setting will introduce the process of cheesemaking from start to finish. You'll get real experience milking the goats as well as making ricotta, chevre, mozzarella and more. Finally, you'll get to taste your very own handcrafted cheese. $70 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Natural Land Institute Wine at the Wetland/Brew at the Slough Saturday, June 7 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 West Rockton Road, Rockton, Illinois Natural Land Institute invites you to Wine at the Wetland/Brew at the Slough , a casual open-air fundraiser in a natural
16 setting that kicks off summer at Nygren Wetland Preserve . Guests will enjoy mingling with friends as they taste specially selected wine and beer samples presented by Artale Wine Co. and local micro-brewery, Rockford Brewing Company . Toni’s of Winnebago will provide scrumptious appetizers. Classical guitarist Ted Stavrou will deliver distinctive musical entertainment throughout the event. You won’t want to miss seeing the beautiful spring wildflowers as you celebrate National Trails Day by taking a walk on the prairie trail with a tour guide or on your own. All proceeds benefit the ongoing restoration and management of Nygren Wetland Preserve including 15% of sales from the purchase of wine by the bottle and packaged beer. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the event. To register: 815-964-6666, [email protected] , or www.NaturalLand.org .
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Frog Night At Pecatonica River Forest Preserve, 7260 Judd Road entrance Saturday, June 7 6:30 p.m. Meet at Pecatonica River Forest Preserve shelterhouse parking lot and hop down to the “barn.” Inside we’ll discuss the different types of frogs and toads species found in northern Illinois. We will listen to their calls and explain the need to conduct surveys. We’ll walk down to the oxbow lake (easy 1 mile walk, there and back) and listen and document what frogs/toads are found. After surveying at PRFP we’ll carpool to Pecatonica Wetlands and other WCFPD properties in the western part of the County and survey there. We’ll end by talking about how you can help by surveying other properties and reporting back your information. For ages 8 and up; please call for reservations 815-335-2915.
17 Friends of the Kishwaukee River 3rd Annual Love Your River Paddle & Picnic Sunday, June 8 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. paddle, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. picnic Espenscheid Forest Preserve 4800 South Perryville Road, Cherry Valley, IL 61016 Join Friends of the Kishwaukee for our annual river celebration. Come at 11:00 to paddle and pick up trash, or come at 1:00 and share a picnic and dedicate our new informational kiosk installed at the canoe launch. Those who want to paddle and pick up litter can put in and get garbage bags at Bauman Park in Cherry Valley. We’ll paddle and pick up litter as far down as Espenscheid or Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve. Then we’ll meet up at Espenscheid for food and fun! Lots of good door prizes! Bring a dish to pass, place setting, and beverage. It will be a great day to enjoy the river and share ideas and plans for projects designed to protect this valuable waterway.
Byron Forest Preserve District Beekeeping Workshops Sunday, June 8 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Jarrett Prairie Center Learn beekeeping techniques and tools of the trade. Bring your bee suits to each of these summer workshops as we may be visiting hives. Cost is $2 per person. No advance registration is required for this workshop. For more information call 815-234-8535.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Canoe Convoy Monday evenings, June 9 – July 21 6:00 p.m. Join us as we explore the miles upon miles of wonderful paddling opportunities we have in Winnebago County! American Canoe Association certified instructors and volunteers will help you learn to be a more skillful and confident paddler. Equipment and guides are provided for $20.00 and there is a $5.00 shuttle fee if needed. You must call
18 weekly to register and find out the CC's location for the evenings paddle. Every week will feature a different river or stretch of river. Times will vary in length. YOU MUST CALL TO REGISTER BEFORE THE FRIDAY PRIOR TO GET INFORMATION. Ages10 and up. We reserve the right to cancel the evening paddle if conditions are not favorable. 815-335-2915.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Fun with Farm Animals, Ages 4 to 7 Monday-Wednesday, June 9-11 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Make friends with your favorite farm animals at this fun farm summer day camp. We’ll work in the barnyard, groom the horse, milk the goats, and learn all about the roles of our livestock on the farm through games and hands-on work. Bring snack daily. For kids ages 4-7. $80 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful Inaugural Golf Play Day Monday, June 9, 2014 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club, 5151 Guilford Rd., Rockford, IL Golfers sign-in and enjoy lunch starting at 11 a.m.; tee-off at 12:30. Dinner and wrap-up at 5 p.m. Event and hole sponsorships available. $100 per player or $400 per foursome. Benefits Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful. Pre-registration required; limited to first 144 golfers. Contact Courtney Oertel, [email protected] ; 815-637-1343 or visit www.knib.org for more information.
University of Illinois Extension Young Explorers Summer Program at Klehm Arboretum Tuesdays, June 10, 17, 24 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Children ages 6 – 12 are invited to join U of I Extension and Klehm Arboretum staff and volunteers at the Young Explorers summer program, to be held on Tuesday mornings at Klehm Arboretum. Classes will include horticulture and nature-related themes, and will take advantage of Klehm’s beautiful outdoor setting (weather permitting). Parent participation is encouraged but not required. Children are free to join us for one or all sessions. $5 fee/session. To register, call U of I Extension at 815-986-4357 or visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw.
19 Welty Environmental Center Our Geologic Past Tuesday, June 10 At Magnolia Bluff County Park 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois were once under an inland sea. Most recently we were covered with mile-high glaciers. See what geologic treasures and stories can be read in the landscape and geologic deposits in the region at this program designed for adults and teens. Come get a preview of this fall’s Master Naturalist Volunteer training course! Bring a picnic supper to enjoy on the bluff, and good hiking shoes. The hiking will be moderate due to the topography of this beautiful county park. Materials on the local geology will be provided. Cost $15 per participant. Register by 6/3 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] .
Co-Sponsored by: Severson Dells Nature Center and Natural Land Institute 2014 Wildflower Walkabout - Explore North Central Illinois Beach Cemetery Prairie Nature Preserve Tuesday, June 10 6:00 p.m. Kevin Rohling of the Natural Land Institute, will be our guide of this 4-acre dry hill prairie on Big Mound Road in Ogle County. We will see one of the best displays of flora in remnant prairies in northern Illinois, including prairie dropseed, leadplant, and pale purple coneflowers. Ray Schulenberg and Bob Betz recorded the state endangered prairie dandelion here in 1971. NLI has owned this area since 1972. Easy hiking. From the intersection of IL Rt. 251 and Big Mound Road, drive west 2 3/4 miles. The prairie is on the north side of the road just 1/4 mile east of White Rock Road. No fee for the walks, but membership in SDNC and/or NLI is encouraged! Please contact SDNC: 815-335-2915 or NLI: 815-964-6666 for more information. Come experience the north central Illinois landscape. Walk where flowers carpet the forest floor and birds fill the air. Severson Dells Nature Center and the Natural Land Institute are the organizing agencies of the event, with local groups providing leaders from their organizations.
20 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Diggers Food Garden Camp, Session 1 Wednesdays & Fridays, June 11 – July 11 (no class July 2 or 4) 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Join us as we discover where our food comes from, and how you can help care for our environment. Students will create their very own vegetable and gardens, and learn how to prepare delicious healthy foods. We will also explore the world of insects and animals in the garden, along with other crafts, games, and activities that support a healthy lifestyle and a better world. In this session, learn about planting, early season crops, compost, and pollinators. Ages 7-12, $125 residents of Winnebago County, $135 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Byron Forest Preserve District Restoration “Behind the Scenes” Tours Wednesday, June 11 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Meet at the Jarrett Prairie Center Take a hike with one of our Restoration Department staff and see the areas of the preserve that they are currently working on, the latest wildflowers that are in bloom and any other interesting seasonal wildlife activity that they have observed. These special tours will go off the trail to places not normally seen by the public. Wear long pants, sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Register by the Monday before the tour. Call 815-234-8535 to register and for more program details. Cost is $5 per person.
Severson Dells Nature Center John Moreland Supported by Chris Porter Wednesday, June 11 Doors at 6:00 p.m.; Show at 7:00 p.m. At Severson Dells Nature Center, $10.00 Take a good, working rock and roll musician, strip him down to the basics, give him an acoustic guitar and say, “tell me what life's taught you so far” and you would get John Moreland. Moreland has a solid history in current Oklahoma rock and roll having several albums to his credit. Vocals and acoustic guitar are front and center leaving Moreland's strong, rugged voice and lyrics to flesh out the songs and breathe them to life. There is music for all occasions and then there's music for sitting back with your favorite beverage and listening with your heart on your sleeve. Call 815-335-2915.
21 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center A Float for the Birds Thursday, June 12 9:00 a.m. – approx. 12:00 p.m. Join Severson Dells staff on a canoe float of the Pecatonica River focusing on the birds that we share the water with. The float will be of easy difficulty. Bring a pair of binoculars, and a happy attitude! Call for details as decisions for put in/take out will be made as river conditions and bird sightings dictate. You must call to register. Ages 10 and up. 815-335-2915.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Botany Lab: What’s in the Water? Thursday, June 12 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Discover the plants and animals that call the river, lagoon, and koi pond home. We will also perform tests and experiments with water from different sources. (includes admission for one parent/guardian, must be present at all times) Ages 5-12, $8 residents of Winnebago County, $10 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register by June 10.
Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: Wish For Fish Friday, June 13 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Fishing is a great pastime for folks of any age, and this is a great time to learn the basics. We’ll learn how to tie on hooks, what bait to use for which fish, and how to think like a fish. All fishing is catch and release. A special craft is included, so bring a light-colored shirt to create your very own lucky fishing shirt! Bring a fishing pole if you have one, or borrow one of ours. We’ll provide all bait and tackle, but if you have a favorite lure please bring it along. Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for non-members. Register by 6/11 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants.
22 Angelic Organics Learning Center Father's Day Overnight at Angelic Organics Farm Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. What better way to celebrate Father's Day than a farm campout? Down-to-earth dads will love this unique and memorable farm experience on Dad's Day. We have a fun time planned, with games, farm work, a campfire, and exploring the land. We'll even cook up our own delicious farm dinner and breakfast with ingredients straight frm the farm. Bring a tent and gear, plus farming clothes and your father. Register for parents and kids ages 3 and up. $45 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Macktown Living History Years of Napoleon Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15 Macktown Forest Preserve This is a celebration of military and civilian culture from 1775 – 1815. It is the age of revolution and the rise of the Napoleonic Empires. This event is open to the public. Adults are $5 and kids are $3. Under 3 years are free. Please call 815-624-4200 or visit www.macktownlivinghistory.com for more information.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Quick Start for Canoers - At Rock Cut State Park Saturday, June 14 Session 1: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., or Session 2: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The quick start program is offered by American Canoe Association certified instructors and volunteers that will help you learn to be a more skillful and confident paddler. This is for beginners and intermediate paddlers and anyone that paddles with WCFPD staff on their trips will have to go through this at some time. For ages ten and up, paddling instructions as well as paddle time on the lake. Call to register: 815-335-2915.
23 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful Medication Collection Saturday, June 14, 2014 Three locations: • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Machesney Park Mall South parking lot, 8750 N. 2nd Street, Machesney Park, IL • 9 a.m. – Noon at South Beloit Fire Department, 429 Gardner Street, South Beloit, IL • 9 a.m. – Noon at Belvidere Township Building, 8200 Fairgrounds Road, Belvidere, IL The Medication Collection is a free drop-off of prescription, over-the-counter and veterinary medications, inhalers and mercury-filled thermometers at all locations. Items not accepted include illegal drugs, needles, sharps and bio-hazardous materials. Medications should be in the original packaging or prescription bottles. Personal information on the label can be removed or blacked out; leave the name of the medication visible. Packaging is also recycled. For more information, visit www.knib.org , www.facebook.com/KeepNorthernIllinoisBeautiful , email [email protected] or call 815-637-1343.
Friends of the Welty Environmental Center, Inc. Taste For Nature: Wisconsin Craft Beer and Wine Tasting Fundraiser Saturday, June 14 At the Hanchett-Bartlett Homestead in Beloit, WI 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening on the back lawn of the Hanchett-Bartlett Homestead (2149 St. Lawrence Ave., Beloit, WI 53511) on the edge of Beloit. As the day winds down enjoy a variety of Wisconsin craft beers, wines, light horsdevours and conversation. Live music will be provided by the New Standard Quartet, featuring jazz, Latin, fusion and pop styles. The Stateline Brewing Society will be present to serve samples and give knowledge and advice. The homestead will be open for tours as well. Your attendance at this fundraiser supports environmental education for over 6,000 people in the Stateline area! Tickets are available at the center, website, and through board members. Cost is $35 per person. Call 608-361-1377 or [email protected] for information and tickets. Rain date - Saturday, June 21.
24 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Owl Prowl At Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve Saturday, June 14 8:00 p.m. Join Severson Dells staff on this night hike to look and listen for the owls at Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve. What goes “hoot” and “bump” in the night? An easy hike on the trails of Seward Bluff’s FP. The three most common owls of this area are the Great Horned Owl, Eastern Screech Owl and the Barred Owl. Which will we hear? “Hoot” cares because it is going to be a great night. Please call for reservations. 815-335-2915.
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden Woodsong Outdoor Concert Series – Ac.Rock A Capella Rock Quartet Sunday, June 15 6:00 p.m., Doors open at 4 p.m. Woodsong is in its 19th year of music in the garden. Concerts are held outdoors on the lawn in Klehm’s magnificent Fountain Garden. Bring a chair, pillow or blanket and a picnic dinner. Concerts are held rain or shine! We have a rain site for all concerts. Come join us for the entire season! Sponsored by Pierce Distribution Services. Ac.Rock is Chicago’s premier a cappella quartet, singing classic rock ‘n roll favorites from the 1950s and on. Ac•Rock sings boomer rock in stunning vocal harmony without instrumental accompaniment. It’s an engaging mix of tightly-crafted music and freewheeling humor that pleases audiences of all ages. Woodsong Series Ticket (3 concerts): Members: $12, Non-Members: $27 Individual Concert Tickets : Members: $5, Non-Members: $10 Contact Dawn for groups of 10 or more. [email protected] , 815-965-8146
25 Angelic Organics Learning Center Farm Leadership Camp, Ages 12 to 15 Monday-Thursday, June 16-19 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. All 12 to 15-year-olds are invited to this special week of farm summer camp for teens. We’ll do animal chores daily, work in the vegetable fields and learn to lead activities to engage younger students in the life of the farm. You’ll have the option to work as a staff helper with day camps later in the summer. Bring a lunch and snack daily and dress to be in the farm environment! The week ends with a special overnight campout on Wednesday night. Will end at 3pm on Thursday. $225 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Welty Environmental Center EXPLORE With Lewis and Clark Day Camp Monday-Friday, June 16- 20 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. daily Over 200 years ago Lewis and Clark travelled down rivers and across unknown lands to open the West to the Pacific Ocean. We’ll relive this time by checking out our creek, learning to read the land, and finding out the local Native American past and lore. Be ready for a busy week of exploring, mapping, playing and crafts. Come back for a special Family Night event to be held Friday evening, June 20 at 6pm. An optional camp out in Beckman Mill Park for the whole family will cap off the week Friday night immediately following the Family Night event. We’ll go on a night hike, check out the constellations, and enjoy songs, stories and smores at the campfire before going to bed. Light breakfast is provided Saturday morning. This camp is open to children ages 6-12 years. Cost is $75 for Welty members or $100 for non-members, additional fee for camp out event. Call 608-361-1377 or email [email protected] for information and registration. Limit: 15 campers. Register by 6/9 .
Rockford Park District Nature Quest Camp – Aldeen Park Monday-Friday, June 16 – August 15 (no camp week of 4th of July) 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (extra care available from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm) Every week, Nature Quest offers an introductory camp experience with a different theme. Typical camp activities include outdoor cooking, archery, hiking, singing, games, and tie-dyeing. To add 26 to the fun, there are weekly field trips, visits by special guests, and live animal demonstrations. Lunch will be provided daily. Plan on joining us each Wednesday for “Family Night”, and see for yourself how much fun your child had at Nature Quest! For more information, go to rockfordparkdistrict.org .
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Kids n’ Cameras Tuesdays, June 17 – July 8 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Children will learn basic photography concepts, such as leading lines, negative space, and rule of thirds. They will take their images from digital files to completed gallery-ready works of art! July 8 will be a gallery show opening complete with prizes and snacks. Children will need to provide their own digital camera (does not need to be anything fancy). Additional costs may include photo printing. If you are unable to provide a camera and are in need of assistance, please contact Lyndi Toohill at 815-987-1654. Ages 6-12, $40 residents of Winnebago County, $45 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Midway Village Museum Summer Day Camp: PU Illinois! Wednesday, June 18 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. What is that smell?! Hunt for and identify smells as you investigate the 150 year old barn, the herb garden, blacksmith shop and more! For 5-11 year olds. Campers must have completed kindergarten. Pre-registration required. Call 815-397-9112 to register, or register online at midwayvillage.com. $11 per member, $12 per non-member. To schedule a group of 10 or more children, call Laura Furman at 815-397-9112 ext 106. $7 per child if in a group of 10 or more.
27 Co-Sponsored by: Severson Dells Nature Center and Natural Land Institute 2014 Wildflower Walkabout - Explore North Central Illinois Sugar River Alder Forest Preserve Wednesday, June 18 6:00 p.m. Don Miller of Severson Dells will lead this walk in the far northwest corner of Winnebago County. It hosts numerous ecosystems providing great habitat for many species of birds and plants. Also great hiking trails in one of the most quiet forest preserves in the district. Easy hiking. The preserve is at 10255 Haas Road in Shirland, 12 miles northwest of Rockton. From the intersection of Yale Bridge and Boswell Roads, drive west on Yale Bridge Road, 1 mile to Hauley Road. North on Hauley Road to Haas Road. No fee for the walks, but membership in SDNC and/or NLI is encouraged! Please contact SDNC: 815-335-2915 or NLI: 815-964-6666 for more information. Come experience the north central Illinois landscape. Walk where flowers carpet the forest floor and birds fill the air. Severson Dells Nature Center and the Natural Land Institute are the organizing agencies of the event, with local groups providing leaders from their organizations.
Wild Ones®– Rock River Valley Chapter Program: Planting Natives in Farms, County Parks & My Own Yard: What Works! Thursday, June 19 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Rock Valley College–Woodward Technology Center, 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61114 Brian Russart, Natural Areas Coordinator for the Milwaukee County Department of Parks, Recreation & Culture, will be discussing the challenges and benefits of native landscaping projects. He and his staff manage 10,000 acres of urban natural areas within Wisconsin’s largest urban center. This program is free and open to the public. Call 815-627-0344 for more information.
28 Angelic Organics Learning Center Preschoolers: Heroic Horse! Friday, June 20 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Come to Angelic Organics Learning Center for our farming series especially for preschoolers and their caregivers. Help Babe, our retired work horse, celebrate her birthday with a special grooming. Plus, we'll learn about how to take care of a horse by making a cake especially for horses. Registration is per child age 2-5. $12 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Kids Yoga Friday, June 20 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. In a world of video games, iPads, computers, and smartphones, children are losing the art of healthy play. With yoga as the foundation, these classes explore storytelling, theme activities, and will engage the natural energy of your young yogi. Classes explore yoga poses, breathing exercises, self-expression, positive thinking, and environmental awareness. Ages 6-10, $10 residents of Winnebago, $12 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Women's Solstice Campout Saturday-Sunday, June 21-22 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Join Womanspace and Angelic Organics Learning Center for a unique solstice retreat on the farm. We'll practice yoga, make simple meals with organic food harvested fresh from the farm, enjoy a meditation session with other like-minded women, and share stories around the campfire. Bring your own tent and gear. $65 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Atwood Center In the Outdoors Saturday, June 21 Time TBD Join the Environmental Recreation and Education staff of the Rockford Park District for fun family outdoor events. Check the RPD website for more details or you may call the Atwood Center at 815-874-7576. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
29 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Lazy Day Float Saturday, June 21 9:00 a.m. – approx. 2:00 p.m. The longest day of the year deserves a long float! Come out and join Greg Keilback for a lazy summer float on his favorite local river, the Sugar River. We will focus on the ecology and importance of the river as we float. Pack a lunch and we can rest on a comfy sand bar and enjoy a shore lunch. It is snowing outside as I type this and already I am excited about this one! Call to register and for more details. 815-335-2915.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Dig In At Pecatonica River Forest Preserve Saturday, June 21 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Severson Dells volunteer, Jen Shepeck, will lead this fun family fossil hunt. Meet at the Pecatonica River Forest Preserve barn for a short introduction. We will then carpool to the quarry located at the forest preserve to search for fossils. Jen has a BS in Forest Resources from the University of Minnesota and a BA in Earth Sciences, a minor in Geology and an MS in Environmental Science from the University of Northern Iowa. No fee, but registration is REQUIRED. 815-335-2915.
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden Summer Solstice Beer Tasting Saturday, June 21 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Celebrate the longest day of the year with the best brews Rockford has to offer. Sample beers from local breweries, enjoy hors d’oeurves and dance to local music, all while experiencing the sunset in Klehm’s beautiful gardens. Cost: TBD
30 Atwood Center In the Outdoors Saturdays, June 21, July 19, August 16 Times TBD Join the Environmental Recreation and Education staff of the Rockford Park District for fun family outdoor events. Check the RPD website for more details or you may call the Atwood Center at 815-874-7576. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Food Preserving 101 Sunday, June 22 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Feeling overwhelmed by abundance from your CSA or garden? Have you always wanted to learn canning? Then this is the workshop for you. Novice food preservers are invited to this basic introduction and practical skills course. After an overview of food safety and reasons to preserve, we jump right into hands-on demonstrations of freezing, dehydrating, and canning, using fresh strawberries as an example. Make and can delicious organic strawberry jam, then take the jar home with you. $50 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Amazing Farm Animals Day Camp, Ages 6 to 12 Monday-Friday, June 23-27 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Calling all animal lovers! This is the summer day camp for you. Get to know your favorite farm animals at Amazing Farm Animals Day Camp. We’ll work in the barnyard, do chores alongside the crew, groom the horse, milk the goats, and learn all about the roles of our livestock on our organic farm through games and hands-on work. Bring lunch and snacks daily. For kids ages 6-12 years. $225 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
31 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Enchanted Storytelling Camp: Famous Fairy Tales Tuesday-Friday, June 24-27 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Explore fairy tales and folk tales from around the world, and experience the rich cultures of the tropics through creative performing and visual arts! Ages 6-12. $40 resident / $50 non-resident Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Co-Sponsored by: Severson Dells Nature Center and Natural Land Institute 2014 Wildflower Walkabout - Explore North Central Illinois Cal Ferguson Forest Preserve Tuesday, June 24 6:00 p.m. Lee and Lynda Johnson of the Sand Bluff Bird Observatory will lead this hike to the newest acquisition of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District. The property spans more than 520 acres at the confluence of the Sugar and Pecatonica rivers in Shirland. It is home to several threatened plant species and about 150 species of birds. It is a migratory stop for the federally endangered whooping crane. Moderate hiking. Meet at the boat launch along the west bank of the Pecatonica River at Two Rivers Forest Preserve, 12251 Harrison Road in Harrison. No fee for the walks, but membership in SDNC and/or NLI is encouraged! Please contact SDNC: 815-335-2915 or NLI: 815-964-6666 for more information. Come experience the north central Illinois landscape. Walk where flowers carpet the forest floor and birds fill the air. Severson Dells Nature Center and the Natural Land Institute are the organizing agencies of the event, with local groups providing leaders from their organizations.
32 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center River of Thought At Oak Ridge Forest Preserve Wednesday, June 25 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Relax your mind and let the River tell you what to write. Or use this as that rare time you schedule a nap by a river! Sit by the shore with your feet in the water or find a rock in the stream to let the river wash away your stress. Bring a journal and binoculars; you will be amazed at what you can accomplish. Creative writing can be done by all at any level. Greg Keilback from Severson Dells will point you in the right direction and serve as a sounding board. We can share what we write and share in the beauty of the Oak Ridge Forest Preserve. Bring your family and enjoy the morning! Register by calling 815-335-2915.
Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Bugs! Wednesday, June 25 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands- on nature activities and games, crafts and a snack. They’re creepy, crawly, small, big, flying, crawling, and awesome! Bugs may be spiders, dragonflies, worms, and more. Learn what makes each special and why they are important for our own lives. Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for non-members, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 6/23 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants .
Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: The Life Aquatic Friday, June 27 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Life in the water includes fish, frogs, turtles, snakes, crayfish, and lots of cool bugs. We’ll explore them all as we check out Raccoon Creek with nets, viewers and our own bare hands! Bring a fishing pole if you have one, or borrow one of ours. We’ll provide all bait and tackle, but if you have a favorite lure please bring it along. We’ll even check out wet and wild crafts celebrating our water critters. Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for non-members. Register by 6/25 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants .
33 University of Illinois Extension and Northwest Illinois Audubon Society Remembering a Lost Bird: Lessons from the Past for a Sustainable Future - Dr. Stan Temple Held at Oakdale Nature Preserve, Freeport Friday, June 27 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. In 1914 the last surviving Passenger Pigeon died in a Cincinnati zoo, ending a calamitous half-century in which the pigeon declined from billions to one, and then to none as a result of uncontrolled market hunting and disruption of nesting colonies. On the centennial occasion of this tragedy, Stanley Temple, Beers-Bascom Professor Emeritus in Conservation at University of Wisconsin-Madison and Senior Fellow with the Aldo Leopold Foundation, will recount the sobering story of the Passenger Pigeon and what it can tell us about the ongoing extinction crisis and our relationship with other species. Co-sponsored by University of Illinois Extension and the Northwest Illinois Audubon Society. $5/person. Pre-registration requested; please visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw or call 815-235-4125.
Byron Forest Preserve District Guided History Canoe Tours of the Rock River – Byron to Oregon, Illinois Saturday, June 28 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Meet at the Jarrett Prairie Center Take a scenic guided local history canoe tour down the Rock River from Byron to Oregon with Superintendent of Education and local historian Mark Herman. This two hour paddle tour will feature stories about the land and historic places that can be seen along the shore of this scenic stretch of the river. We will take out above the Oregon Dam at Oregon Park East and end the day with a tour of the 1883 Chana School Museum. For ages 12 and up. Must have at least one adult per canoe. Cost is $20 per canoe/$10 per person (two person minimum & up to three related people in each canoe). Call 815-234-8535 to register by the Wednesday prior to each trip.
34 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Botany Lab: Fantastic Frogs & Toads Saturday, June 28 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Meet these amazing amphibians, and learn why we love to have them in our garden. Create a toad house to take home! (includes admission for one parent/guardian, must be present at all times) Ages 5-12, $8 residents of Winnebago County, $10 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register by June 26.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Animal Day for Families Saturday, June 28 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Bring your kids to the farm for a day of hands-on experiences with the animals. Help the crew milk the goats, feed the horses, and gather eggs from the chickens. See how you can produce soil from kitchen scraps with worm boxes. Make goat’s milk ice cream and enjoy a sack lunch under the trees near our timber frame barn. Please register for each family member age 3 and up. $20 Please pre-register (815) 389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Sinnissippi Audubon Paddle the Sugar River with Birders Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m. Paddle down the Sugar River from Yale Bridge (or Colored Sands) to Two Rivers Forest Preserve. See the new Ferguson Forest Preserve from the river. Float in the company of folks who can identify the birds encountered along the way. Bring your own canoe or kayak; or Sinnissippi Audubon will have a few extra canoes if you don't have your own. Call 815-229-3656 or 815-543-3658 for more information. No cost.
35 Rockford Park District Camp Lone Oak – Atwood Center Monday-Thursday, June 30-July 3 7:30 a.m. Monday through 7:30 p.m. Thursday Camp Lone Oak-Classic is a residential camping experience at the Atwood Center, inside Atwood Park. We will give campers the opportunity to make new friends through games, crafts, and other camp traditions, culminating with a Camp Dance and Family Night on Thursday evening. Each week has a different theme – check the Rockford Park District website (rockfordparkdistrict.org) for more details!
Macktown Living History Archaeology month is July! Wednesdays and Fridays (Adults: July 4, 11, 18) (Kids: July 9, 16, 23) Macktown Forest Preserve Adult digs on Fridays and kid digs on Wednesdays. $25 fee/session. Call 815-624-4200 to add your name to the list---it’s filling fast! Adult digs are July 4, 11, and 18. Kid digs are July 9, 16, and 23.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Women’s Walk At Rotary Forest Preserve Wednesday, July 2 9:00 a.m. GIRLS ONLY! (ages 8+) Join Kathy Martinez, Nature Educator of Severson Dells, for a beautiful morning hike at Rotary Forest Preserve. We will walk through the woods and down to the river. Depending on weather and water conditions, we may find some mussels, skip rocks and walk up the gorge. Moderate difficulty. No fee, but registration REQUIRED. Exact meeting spot and dress code will be provided. 815-335-2915.
Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Wet and Wild Critters Wednesday, July 2 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands- on nature activities and games, crafts and a
36 snack. Lots of living things lurk underwater. We’ll check out as many as can from the large to the small. Nets will help us catch the little ones, and we might be lucky enough to meet some frogs, turtles and snakes. Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for non-members, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 6/30 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Wednesday Wanderings - Deer Run Forest Preserve Wednesday, July 2 6:00 p.m. Don Miller of Severson Dells Nature Center will lead this awesome walk. The trail meanders with the river through a very rich floodplain forest. The bluebells will be gone as well as the rue anemones that fill this place in the spring, but the restored prairie will be bright with blooms. There are numerous spots where one can walk down to the river’s edge and explore the tracks in the dirt and sand. Great bird life can be seen from eagles, ospreys, great blue and green herons. We'll take our time on this one and we'll take it all in. Easy walking. Free, but please call for reservations so that if changes are made we can notify you. 815-335-2915.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Float the South Branch of the Kish Thursday, July 3 9:00 a.m. This is a nice family friendly stretch of water. What do you say we get out on this day before all the holiday people get on the rivers and take in the solitude? Usually a very clear shallow water river with great birds and mussels galore. (Not your muscles, the other kind.) We will begin with a quick start program for those that are new to paddling or want a refresher and then we get paddling. Approximately a two hour paddle. Ages 10 and up. Call to register and for more details. 815-335-2915.
37 Northwest Illinois Audubon Society Tour of Prairie Nature Preserves Saturday, July 5 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Prairies in early July are spectacular, with many blooming forbs. Join us as we visit three prairie gems in northwest Illinois – Freeport Prairie, Beach Cemetery Prairie, and Wade Prairie – all dedicated nature preserves. We hope to see blooming Pale Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Weed, Leadplant, Stiff-leaved Coreopsis and many more. Carpool from the Staples lot in Freeport at 8 a.m. We’ll eat lunch in Byron with a return to Freeport at 2 p.m. For more information or if the weather is questionable, call leader Keith Blackmore at 815-938-3204.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Where the Butterflies Grow At Kieselburg Forest Preserve Saturday, July 5 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Bring the whole family out for this insect chasing, sweat making, great old time. Severson Dells staff will be on hand to get you started and then who knows what will happen? Plan A is to have some fun, plan B is to catch and identify some butterflies, and plan C is plan A and plan B together. If you have your own favorite net bring it along as well. Does your net have a name? Maybe we will have a net naming a contest, too! This will be a catch and release program only. Free. You must call for reservations. 815-335-2915.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Young Pioneer Day Camp Monday-Wednesday, July 7-9 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Be a farm pioneer! Care for the livestock and make pioneer style food and crafts at this special farm day camp for kids ages 4-7. Bring a snack daily. $80 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
38 Angelic Organics Learning Center Pioneer Day Camp Monday-Friday, July 7-11 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Be a pioneer for a week! Care for the livestock, make pioneer- style food and crafts, and take an adventure down to the creek at this unique farm day camp. Ages 6 to 12. Bring a sack lunch and snacks daily. $225 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.
Midway Village Museum Summer Day Camp: Worms Monday, July 7 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Uncover the art of Vermiculture as you explore the amazing world of worms in our historic gardens. For 5-11 year olds. Campers must have completed kindergarten. Pre-registration required. Call 815-397-9112 to register, or register online at midwayvillage.com. $11 per member, $12 per non-member. To schedule a group of 10 or more children, call Laura Furman at 815-397-9112 ext 106. $7 per child if in a group of 10 or more.
University of Illinois Extension Young Explorers Summer Program at Klehm Arboretum Tuesdays, July 8, 15, 22 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Children ages 6 – 12 are invited to join U of I Extension and Klehm Arboretum staff and volunteers at the Young Explorers summer program, to be held on Tuesday mornings at Klehm Arboretum. Classes will include horticulture and nature-related themes, and will take advantage of Klehm’s beautiful outdoor setting (weather permitting). Parent participation is encouraged but not required. Children are free to join us for one or all sessions. $5 fee/session. To register, call U of I Extension at 815-986-4357 or visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw .
39 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Tai Chi Wednesdays, July 9-30 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Refresh your mind, body, and spirit with this calming Asian form of exercise. This class works to strengthen your body while focusing your thoughts through gentle movements appropriate for adults of all ages and fitness levels. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 to register.
Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Wingin’ It Wednesday, July 9 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands- on nature activities and games, crafts and a snack. There is a lot of life in the air! We’ll check out birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and even seeds and spiders that sometimes take flight! Make your own special flying craft. Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for non-members, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 7/7 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Wednesday Wanderings - Sugar River Alder Forest Preserve Wednesday, July 9 6:00 p.m. Greg Keilback of Severson Dells Nature Center will lead this walk in the far northwest corner of Winnebago County. It hosts numerous ecosystems providing great habitat for many species of birds and plants. We hope to hit at peak prairie time. Also great hiking trails in one of the most quiet forest preserves in the district and the biggest sky in the County. Moderate/difficult hiking. Free, but please call for reservations so that if changes are made we can notify you. 815-335-2915.
40 Byron Forest Preserve District Restoration “Behind the Scenes” Tours Wednesday, July 9 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Meet at the Jarrett Prairie Center Take a hike with one of our Restoration Department staff and see the areas of the preserve that they are currently working on, the latest wildflowers that are in bloom and any other interesting seasonal wildlife activity that they have observed. These special tours will go off the trail to places not normally seen by the public. Wear long pants, sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Register by the Monday before the tour. Call 815-234-8535 to register and for more program details. Cost is $5 per person.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Yoga Thursdays, July 10-31 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Strengthen, stretch, and gently tone your way to a healthy mind, body, and soul while being surrounded by tropical greenery. This class is appropriate for all ages and abilities. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 to register.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Up for the Challenge? Can You Survive? At Severson Dells Forest Preserve Thursday, July 10 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Predator/prey is a classic game we play here at Severson Dells. It teaches kids the basics of ecology and the food chain. It also gets them running around and thinking on their feet. This game is for ALL. We want to get as many people, of as many ages, outside around the lodge here at Severson Dells. This is a survival game. Therefore, the only way to “win” is to still be alive at the end of the game. Each type of animal (herbivore, omnivore and carnivore) has different needs which must be met in order to survive. Rules and strategies will be covered at 1:00 p.m. The more people who play the more fun this game is! Tell your friends and family and come out to test yourself and HAVE SOME FUN!!! Please call to register 1-815-335-2915 FREE TO ALL!!
41 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Botany Lab: The Dirt on Compost Thursday, July 10 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Did you know you can recycle your kitchen scraps and lawn waste into rich soil for plants to grow? Learn about how composting works, and make your own mini-composter to take home! (includes admission for one parent/guardian, must be present at all times) Ages 5-12, $8 residents of Winnebago County, $10 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register by July 8.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Nia Fridays, July 11-27 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Nia is a holistic fitness practice that combines the grace and fluidity of the dance arts with the power and precision of the martial arts and the awareness of the healing arts. Nia promotes strength and muscle definition, and awakens you to sensation. You’ll tighten, tone, lengthen, strengthen, lose pounds and inches – and have fun while you’re doing it. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: Hidden Worlds Friday, July 11 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Have you ever wondered if there is more to life? Well, there certainly is more than meets the eye! Be ready to carefully explore under rocks and logs, in the water, and though the microscope and lens. For some living things, a drop of water is their universe! Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for non-members. Register by 7/9 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants .
42 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Kids Yoga Friday, July 11 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. In a world of video games, iPads, computers, and smartphones, children are losing the art of healthy play. With yoga as the foundation, these classes explore storytelling, theme activities, and will engage the natural energy of your young yogi. Classes explore yoga poses, breathing exercises, self-expression, positive thinking, and environmental awareness. Ages 6-10. $10 residents of Winnebago County, $12 non- residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Natural Land Institute Wildflower Weekend Saturday-Sunday, July 12-13 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. both days (Sat: exhibitors until 2:00 p.m.) Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 West Rockton Road, Rockton, Illinois Wildflower Weekend is a FREE two day, family friendly event. All ages will enjoy and experience nature first hand and learn why it is important to protect our natural areas. Visitors may explore the preserve on their own or participate in a variety of activities that engage them in outdoor hands-on learning. Saturday’s activities include taking wagon rides around the preserve, guided walking tours of the Anne Meyer Prairie Garden, drawing classes for children, painting classes for adults, displays by Northern Illinois Raptors, Native Pollinators, Birdwatching at the Wetland, Creek Biology, Two Toads Environmental Education, Storytelling by Jim May, 1800s land surveyor re-enactor Rob Nurre, Silver Creek Photography, and other activities. Sunday, visitors are welcome to explore the preserve on their own. Either day guests are invited to bring a picnic. Registration for the art classes and storytelling required. Register at: 815-964-6666, [email protected] , or www.NaturalLand.org .
43 Angelic Organics Learning Center Cheesemaking Saturday, July 12 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This hands-on workshop in our farm setting will introduce the process of cheesemaking from start to finish. You'll get real experience milking the goats as well as making ricotta, chevre, mozzarella and more. Finally, you'll get to taste your very own handcrafted cheese. $70 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful Summer Clothing Drive Saturday, July 12, 2014 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Rockford area Schnucks store parking lots Belvidere Township Building, 8200 Fairgrounds Road, Belvidere Free drive-up drop-off of clothing and textiles for redistribution or recycling and to avoid adding to landfills. Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful conducts the drive three times a year, the second Saturdays in May, July and October. Drive-through sites in Winnebago County are at all 10 Schnucks store parking lots and in Boone County at the Belvidere Township Building. Accepted items include clothing and shoes for men, women and children; accessories -- purses, belts and hats; linens; stuffed toys; soft- sided luggage; and throw rugs (no carpet). All items must be in plastic bags; no boxes or hangers are accepted. The bags should weigh 10 pounds or less for the safety of the volunteers. Drop-offs also accepted any Saturday at either the Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful Roscoe or Rockford Recycle Centers. Volunteers needed. Visit www.knib.org, call Volunteer Coordinator Martha Byrnes at 815- 637-1343, see www.facebook.com/KeepNorthernIllinoisBeautiful , or email [email protected] .
44 Angelic Organics Learning Center Winemaking Saturday, July 12 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Learn to make your own wine at this hands-on workshop. After introducing the science of winemaking, we’ll jump right into making a small batch of wine. Each participant will use wild fruits to make one gallon of wine starter (or “must”) for fermenting at home. Participants need to bring 3-5 pounds of fruit (preferably wild fruits such as mulberries or raspberries);. For help with identifying and selecting fruit please contact Dave at 608-934-1070. We'll supply a bucket, a fermentation lock, and tubing;. You'll need a gallon glass jug, some sugar, and wine bottles back at home. $65 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Super Float Saturday, July 12 5:00 p.m. – approx. 8:00 p.m. (float time) At 8:32 p.m. the moon will begin to rise on our horizon. A super full moon occurs when the moon’s closest approach to the Earth (lunar perigee) coincides with the phase of full moon. When this happens the moon may seem bigger and brighter. Put in will be at Pecatonica River F.P. at 5:00 p.m. We will float in the cool of the evening and take out at the Trask Bridge F.P. Then we will gather at the Pecatonica wetlands F.P. to watch the Super Full Moon rise on the horizon. Call to register. 815-335-2915.
Byron Forest Preserve District Beekeeping Workshops Sunday, July 13 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Jarrett Prairie Center Learn beekeeping techniques and tools of the trade. Bring your bee suits to each of these summer workshops as we may be visiting hives. Cost is $2 per person. No advance registration is required for this workshop. For more information call 815-234-8535.
45 Angelic Organics Learning Center Farm Adventure Day Camp, Ages 9 to 12 Monday-Friday, July 14-18 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Join us for an exciting week of farm challenges, including a building project, a quest in the farm’s woods, cooking from scratch, and an entrepreneurial venture. Build creativity, cooperation and culinary skills at this unique summer day camp for 9- to 12-year-olds. $225 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Playing with Your Food Day Camp, Ages 6 to 8 Monday-Friday, July 14-18 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. All the most fun farm activities are packed into this day camp: making cheese, creating wacky veggie sculptures, playing farm olympics, hiking to the creek and more. You'll even make a scrapbook for all your farm memories. Bring lunch and snacks daily. For 6 to 8-year- olds. $225 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
University of Illinois Extension Jr. Master Gardener Program Held at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens July 14, 24, 31 and August 7 Children ages 6 to 13 years will learn about gardening, sustainability, and ecosystems from University of Illinois Extension staff and master gardeners experts. The Junior Master Gardener Program’s mission is to grow good kids by igniting a passion for learning, success and service through a unique gardening education. Youth can earn the prestigious title of Junior Master Gardener by digging into environmental science and gardening. Fun projects every week. Junior Master Gardener certificate and special prize awarded at last class! Dress to get dirty! $40 per person; please register through the Rockford Park District.
46 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Enchanted Storytelling Camp: Legends and Folklore from the Americas July 15-18 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Explore fairy tales and folk tales from around the world, and experience the rich cultures of the tropics through creative performing and visual arts! Ages 6-12. $40 residents of Winnebago County, $50 non- residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Diggers Food Garden Camp, Session 2 Wednesdays & Fridays, July 16 – August 8 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Join us as we discover where our food comes from, and how you can help care for our environment. Students will create their very own vegetable and herb gardens, and learn how to prepare delicious healthy foods. We will also explore the world of insects and animals in the garden, along with other crafts, games, and activities that support a healthy lifestyle and a better world. In this session, reap the benefits harvest! Learn to prepare simple yet delicious and healthy meals and snacks. Ages 7-12, $125 residents of Winnebago County, $135 non- residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center A Float for the Birds Wednesday, July 16 9:00 a.m. – approx. 12:00 p.m. Join Severson Dells staff on a canoe float of the Kishwaukee River focusing on the birds that we share the water with. The float will be of moderate difficulty. Bring a pair of binoculars, and a happy attitude! Call for details as decisions for put in/take out will be made as river conditions and bird sightings dictate. You must call to register. Ages 10 and up. 815-335-2915.
47 Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Mammals, Oh My! Wednesday, July 16 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands-on nature activities and games, crafts and a snack. They’ve got hair, backbones and make their own heat, and range from tiny shrews to the largest animal to ever live on this Earth. And we’re one too! Find out what makes mammals special, and be ready to explore for the signs they leave behind. Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for non-members, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 7/14 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Wednesday Wanderings - J. Norman Jensen Forest Preserve Wednesday, July 16 6:00 p.m. Scott Kruger of Severson Dells Nature Center will take us to one of the newer forest preserves, west of Rockton, IL along the Rock River. Beautiful vista and a stairway to the river’s edge will be enjoyed. Great possibility for some good water-birds sightings, as well as an eagle or two. Easy hike. Free, but please call for reservations so that if changes are made we can notify you. 815-335-2915.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Junior Master Gardeners Thursdays, July 17 – August 7 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Children will learn about gardening, sustainability and ecosystems from the experts at the University of Illinois Extension. Fun projects every week. Junior Master Gardener certificate and a special prize will be awarded at the last class! Ages 5-12, fee includes parent and child. Dress to get Dirty! $40 residents of Winnebago County, $45 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
48 Wild Ones®– Rock River Valley Chapter Members’ Summer Social at Indian Hill Manor Thursday, July 17 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Jerry Paulson, retired Director of the Natural Land Institute, will talk about the rehabilitation of the manor gardens and grounds. The grounds were designed by O.C. Simonds, part of the “Midwest movement” of landscape design that encouraged the use of native gardens. This potluck social is open only to Wild Ones members. Call 815-627-0344 for information about joining the organization to be a part of their once-a-year summer social. Regular programs during the year are free and open to the public.
Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: Prairies and the Past Friday, July 18 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Our prairie will be in its glory as summer reaches its height, so come check it out. Find out amazing wonders hiding in the tall grass and plants, and try out how the Native Americans and pioneers who lived on the prairie used its resources. All our crafts and snacks will come from the prairie today! Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for nonmembers. Register by 7/16 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants.
Atwood Center In the Outdoors Saturday, July 19 Time TBD Join the Environmental Recreation and Education staff of the Rockford Park District for fun family outdoor events. Check the RPD website for more details or you may call the Atwood Center at 815-874-7576. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
49 Severson Dells Nature Center Adult Peek Into Creek At Severson Dells Forest Preserve Saturday, July 19 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. A D U L T S O N L Y ! ! ! ! ! Are you tired of hearing from your kids/grandkids/nieces/nephews how much fun they are having at the peek-into-creek camps? Dive into the ecology of stream life; whet your appetite and wet your feet. Take part in the A, B, Sees (appreciation, biology and silliness) of this watery world. We will explore the creek located at Severson Dells Forest Preserve. The camp will be led by a professional staff. Maximum number of campers is 20. The camp will include the legendary creek slosh through the dells in the beautiful Hall Creek of Severson Dells. The slosh is of moderate difficulty. FREE to members of "Friends of Severson Dells." $5 per non- member. Please call to register, or for more information: 815-335-2915.
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden Woodsong Outdoor Concert Series – Saturday June Band Sunday, July 20 6:00 p.m., Doors open at 4:00 p.m. Woodsong is in its 19th year of music in the garden. Concerts are held outdoors on the lawn in Klehm’s magnificent Fountain Garden. Bring a chair, pillow or blanket and a picnic dinner. Concerts are held rain or shine! We have a rain site. Sponsored by Pierce Distribution Services. The Saturday June Band plays rock favorites from classic to contemporary and has performed at Navy Pier and Chicagofest. The band plays with an infectious enthusiasm that draws in the listener and makes you want to get out there and dance to those songs you know so well. Members: $5, Non-Members: $10 Contact Dawn for groups of 10 or more. [email protected] , 815- 965-8146
50 Boone County Conservation District Heritage Garden Walk Sunday, July 20 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Free admission Spend a relaxing evening strolling through the Heritage Gardens at the Boone County Conservation District. Five Heritage Gardens, two authentic cabins from the 1830’s, a schoolhouse and a wigwam are at the center of the evenings events. Gardener interpreters in period clothing will be available for all your garden questions as you tour the Yankee, Scottish, German, Norwegian and Potawatomi gardens. Learn about the many varieties of heirloom vegetables grown by settlers in the early 1800’s. Free recipes and seeds will be available for you to take home. Enjoy garden treats and cold lemonade in the schoolhouse. Boone County Garden Club of America Butterfly Garden and the Master Gardeners of Boone County Demonstration Garden are also included in the garden walk. For more information contact Boone County Conservation District at 815-547-7935 or www.bccdil.org .
Byron Forest Preserve District Archaeology Hands-On History Day Sunday, July 20 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Meet at the Jarrett Prairie Center The Rock River Valley is home to dozens of Indian mounds and prehistoric sites. Learn more about prehistoric tools and weapons through hands-on demonstrations at this first time interactive event. Try your hand at using an atalatl spear thrower; instructors from the World Atalatl Association will be on hand to teach the art of throwing spears with atalatls, a type of spear-thrower that has been used for over 30,000 years. There will be special ongoing demonstrations of arrowhead and spearhead making techniques by nationally known flintknapper Larry Kinsella. He will provide all materials and safety equipment to teach beginning flintknapping, the art of making stone tools from flint. Talk to professional archaeologists about your own collection of points, prehistorical tools and other items that you have found in your garden and much more. Open to all ages. This is a FREE program. For more information call 815-234-8535.
51 Rockford Park District Camp Lone Oak – Atwood Center Monday-Thursday, July 21-24 7:30 a.m. Monday through 7:30 p.m. Thursday Camp Lone Oak-Classic is a residential camping experience at the Atwood Center, inside Atwood Park. We will give campers the opportunity to make new friends through games, crafts, and other camp traditions, culminating with a Camp Dance and Family Night on Thursday evening. Each week has a different theme – check the Rockford Park District website (rockfordparkdistrict.org) for more details!
Angelic Organics Learning Center Amazing Farm Animals Day Camp, Ages 6 to 12 Monday-Friday, July 21-25 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Calling all animal lovers! This is the summer day camp for you. Get to know your favorite farm animals at Amazing Farm Animals Day Camp. We’ll work in the barnyard, do chores alongside the crew, groom the horse, milk the goats, and learn all about the roles of our livestock on our organic farm through games and hands-on work. Bring lunch and snacks daily. For kids ages 6-12 years. $225 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Green LEEDers Camp July 22 – July 25 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Join us for a week of hands-on projects about preserving our environment and conserving energy! We’ll explore wind and solar energy, the power of plants, and much more! Plus, you get behind-the- scenes access to NCG’s LEED gold-certified facility to become a ‘LEEDer’ in energy and environmental design! Ages 7-12, $45 residents of Winnebago County, $55 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Natural Playgrounds Wednesday, July 23 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands- on nature activities and games, crafts and a snack. A playground doesn’t have to be built by people. Some of the best are all around us. We’ll
52 build shelters in the woods, make games from seeds and stones, and try out climbing on stumps. Come find out where the real wild things are! Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for non-members, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 7/21 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants.
Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: Nature Play Day Friday, July 25 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Mother Nature gives us her own playground. We’ll make games from natural material, find out how to make a corn husk doll, and use nature as our source of fun all day long. The creek gives a special place to play and explore! Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for non- members. Register by 7/23 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants.
Winnebago County Forest Preserve District/ Severson Dells Nature Center Mussel Mania - location TBA Saturday, July 26 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (ages 8 & older) Muckets, pigtoes, heelsplitters and black sandshells-just a few of the unique creatures we would like you to meet. Discover the secret world of freshwater mussels in northern IL. Why are they the most endangered animal in the U.S.? Why are they important indicators of the health of a river? Join us for this “feet-in, hands-on” experience. You will be notified of the exact location. No fee, but registration is REQUIRED. 815-335-2915.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Botany Lab: For the Birds Saturday, July 26 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Explore the lives of native birds! Experiment with different adaptations that make each bird suited to their habitat and build a bird feeder to take home. (includes admission for one parent/guardian, must be present at all times) Ages 5-12, $8 residents of Winnebago County, $10 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register by July 24.
53 Angelic Organics Learning Center Count Your Chickens Saturday, July 26 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Curious about starting a small flock of chickens? In this workshop, we’ll address all you need to know before you get your birds: feeding, health, breeds, coops, protection from predators, year-round care, eggs, raising chicks and more. Whether you're in an urban or a rural area, you'll leave with the information you need in order to decide whether to starting raising your own flock of backyard birds. $45 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Northwest Illinois Audubon Society Elkhorn Creek Butterfly Festival Saturday, July 26 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Join us for a free, fun, informative family-friendly afternoon as we explore the Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve for the many butterflies that are found there. Participants may join butterfly tours or look on their own for those winged beauties. Tours will begin at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. “Illinois Butterflies and Moths” pocket guides will be distributed at no charge while supplies last. We’ll have shady rest areas with chairs as well as a restroom, cold beverages and snacks. If the weather is questionable or if you have questions call Blackmore’s at 815-938-3204 prior to 10:00 on July 26th. The preserve is located about 3 miles southwest of Forreston in the southeast corner of West Grove and Freeport Roads with parking off of West Grove Road.
Wild Ones Rock River Valley Chapter Wild for Monarchs: Inviting Nature Home Lecture & Tour July 26 and 27, 2014 The Wild Ones Rock River Valley Chapter celebrates its 20th Anniversary with a lecture by Michael R. Jeffords, Ph. D., retired entomologist with the Illinois Natural History Survey, and two days of tours of private yards and public landscapes featuring wildflowers and other plants that attract birds, butterflies and other beneficial insects, especially Monarch Butterflies. July 26 – 9:00 a.m. Dr. Jeffords will speak about “Surrounding Yourself 54 with Biodiversity: Strategies for the Home Landscape” Location: Northern Illinois University – Rockford, 8500 E. State Street, Rockford Free to Wild Ones members; $5 donation requested for others.
July 26 – 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tour of natural yards and native landscapes in Rockford, Belvidere, Rockton, Roscoe and South Beloit.
July 27 – 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tour of natural yards and native landscapes in Rockford, Belvidere, Rockton, Roscoe and South Beloit.
Each stop will feature different uses of native plants, activities for families, and information about ways to help save Monarchs from disappearing. A milkweed plant will be given to each family while supplies last. Free, and open to the public. Donations accepted.
The listing of tour locations will be posted one-week prior to the event at www.WildOnesRRVC.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Say Cheese! A Cheesemaking Class for Families Sunday, July 27 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. At this family-friendly hands-on workshop, we'll introduce the process of cheese making from start to finish, from milking the goats to tasting fresh goat’s cheese. The class will feature ricotta and queso blanco. Kids ages 6 and up. Register per family. $40 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Young Chefs Day Camp Monday-Friday, July 28-1 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. This is the perfect day camp for your aspiring chef. At this cooking camp for kids, we'll harvest fresh food from the farm, then create culinary treats to chow down on. This day camp's activities even include Veggie Idol, a special farm version of the TV show. Plus, it's a fun way to introduce your kids to healthy new foods and skills. Bring your appetites, your imaginations, and let's get ready to cook! For kids ages 6-12. Bring lunch and snacks daily. $225 Please pre-register 815- 389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
55 Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Rocks Rock! Wednesday, July 30 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands-on nature activities and games, crafts and a snack. That rock under your feet can tell a great story. Learn about rivers of ice, and oceans that once covered the area. Make your own fossil to take home. Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for nonmembers, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 7/28 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants .
Welty Environmental Center Flora and Fauna of the Prairie Wednesday, July 30 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Come learn details of life on the prairie at this program designed for adults and teens. Come get a preview of this fall’s Master Naturalist Volunteer training course! We will be exploring the native plants, insects and other animals of the prairie as we examine an oak savanna restoration. Bring a picnic supper to enjoy in the pavilion, and comfortable shoes for easy hiking. Materials on life in the prairie will be provided. Cost $15 per participant. Register by 7/23 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] .
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Nia Fridays, August 1-29 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Nia is a holistic fitness practice that combines the grace and fluidity of the dance arts with the power and precision of the martial arts and the awareness of the healing arts. Nia promotes strength and muscle definition, and awakens you to sensation. You’ll tighten, tone, lengthen, strengthen, lose pounds and inches – and have fun while you’re doing it. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
56 Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: Geologic Wonders Friday, August 1 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The landscape of this area tells a story of rivers of ice a mile high, and oceans deep. Bring your sense of adventure and keen eye as we check out rocks in the park for the stories they tell. Find out the “rules” for finding the perfect rock. We’ll look for real fossils, and make one to take home too. Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for non-members. Register by 7/30 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Farm Camp Monday-Friday, August 4-8 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Be a farmer for a week! Take care of our farm animals, do real work with the farm crew, learn about what makes our farm organic, and celebrate your harvest with food from the fields. Bring lunch and hearty snack daily. This farm camp is especially for young farmers aged 6-12 years old. $225 Please pre-register (815) 389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Botany Lab: Seeds Tuesday, August 5 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Discover the wide world of seeds, experiment with different dispersal methods, and more! (includes admission for one parent/guardian, must be present at all times) Ages 5-12, $8 residents of Winnebago County, $10 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register by August 1.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Tai Chi Wednesdays, August 6-27 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Refresh your mind, body, and spirit with this calming Asian form of exercise. This class works to strengthen your body while focusing your thoughts through gentle movements appropriate for adults of all ages and fitness levels. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non- residents. Call 815-987-8858 to register.
57 Byron Forest Preserve District Restoration “Behind the Scenes” Tours Wednesday, August 6 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Meet at the Jarrett Prairie Center Take a hike with one of our Restoration Department staff and see the areas of the preserve that they are currently working on, the latest wildflowers that are in bloom and any other interesting seasonal wildlife activity that they have observed. These special tours will go off the trail to places not normally seen by the public. Wear long pants, sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Register by the Monday before the tour. Call 815-234-8535 to register and for more program details. Cost is $5 per person.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Yoga Thursdays, August 7-28 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Strengthen, stretch, and gently tone your way to a healthy mind, body, and soul while being surrounded by tropical greenery. This class is appropriate for all ages and abilities. Ages 16+, $32 residents of Winnebago County, $40 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 to register.
Welty Environmental Center Welty Wednesday: Creek Stomp Wednesday, August 7 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join us for a morning of stories, hands-on nature activities and games, crafts and a snack. Today is a summer tradition all about getting our feet wet! We’ll get in Raccoon Creek to catch crayfish, scoop tadpoles, sneak up on turtles and more. Enjoy water crafts and watermelon on the shore. Please note: footwear must be worn in the creek. Ages 5-10 years can come on their own, and children 4 years and under are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. Cost is $8 for Welty members or $10 for non-members, and $5 for all our friends 4 years old and younger. Register by 8/4 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit 20 participants .
58 Welty Environmental Center Friday Fun: Creekside Friday, August 8 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The summer can be long and hot, so let’s take a day to be lazy and enjoy the wonders along the creek. Bring your pole, or borrow one of ours and catch a fish or two. Make boats to race in the fish ladder, and maybe we’ll be lucky enough to sneak up on a snake or turtle! Bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes is advised. Cost is $15 for FWEC members, $20 for non-members. Register by 8/6 at 608-361-1377 or [email protected] . Limit: 15 participants.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Farm Dreams: Assessing Risks & Resources to Start a Small Farm or Market Garden Saturday, August 9 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Have you ever dreamed of starting your own sustainable farm? In this interactive workshop, we'll learn about types of sustainable farming careers in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, take part in a series of self-assessments, and be better prepared to decide whether to pursue a farming business. We'll hear about regional training opportunities through the Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training (CRAFT), university extension, small business development centers, and others. Includes a presentation of farming enterprises, a tour of a growing site, and an opportunity to ask questions about the development of successful local farms. $60 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.
Byron Forest Preserve District Beekeeping Workshops Sunday, August 10 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Jarrett Prairie Center Learn beekeeping techniques and tools of the trade. Bring your bee suits to each of these summer workshops as we may be visiting hives. Cost is $2 per person. No advance registration is required for this workshop. For more information call 815-234-8535.
59 Angelic Organics Learning Center Cheesemaking Sunday, August 10 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This hands-on workshop in our farm setting will introduce the process of cheesemaking from start to finish. You'll get real experience milking the goats as well as making ricotta, chevre, mozzarella and more. Finally, you'll get to taste your very own handcrafted cheese. $70 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Wild Edibles of Late Summer Sunday, August 10 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Join us for a “wild” party as we forage the farm’s acreage for late summer delicacies like sumac, bee balm and elderberry. Learn to recognize and forage wild edible plants from woodlands and fields, then return to the kitchen to learn preparation techniques to make teas, jellies and more with the herbs, flowers, and berries of late summer. Wear or bring long sleeves and good walking shoes for foraging. $60 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Fun with Farm Animals, Ages 4 to 7 Monday -Wednesday, August 11-13 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Make friends with your favorite farm animals at this fun farm summer day camp. We’ll work in the barnyard, groom the horse, milk the goats, and learn all about the roles of our livestock on the farm through games and hands-on work. For kids ages 4- 7. $80 Please pre-register (815) 389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Rockford Park District Camp Lone Oak – Atwood Center Monday-Thursday, August 11-14 7:30 a.m. Monday through 7:30 p.m. Thursday Camp Lone Oak-Classic is a residential camping experience at the Atwood Center, inside Atwood Park. We will give campers the opportunity to make new friends through games, crafts, and other camp
60 traditions, culminating with a Camp Dance and Family Night on Thursday evening. Each week has a different theme – check the Rockford Park District website (rockfordparkdistrict.org) for more details!
Welty Environmental Center Living The WILD Life Day Camp Monday-Friday, August 11-15 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. daily Check out our local animal Creature Powers as we explore for life in the park from the small to the tall, and everything in between. Campers will be transformed into their own super creature by the end of the week! Come back for a special Family Night event to be held Friday evening, Aug. 15 at 6 p.m. An optional camp out in Beckman Mill Park for the whole family will cap off the week Friday night immediately following the Family Night event. We’ll go on a night hike, check out the constellations, and enjoy songs, stories and smores at the campfire before going to bed. Light breakfast is provided Saturday morning. Partial scholarships are available. This camp is open to children ages 6- 12 years. Cost is $75 for Welty members or $100 for non-members, additional fee for camp out event. Call 608-361-1377 or email [email protected] for information and registration. Register by 8/4. Limit: 15 campers.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Enchanted Storytelling Camp: African Tales and Traditions Tuesday-Friday, August 12-15 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Explore fairy tales and folk tales from around the world, and experience the rich cultures of the tropics through creative performing and visual arts! Ages 6-12. $40 residents of Winnebago County, $50 non-residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
61 Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Kids Yoga Friday, August 14 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. In a world of video games, iPads, computers, and smartphones, children are losing the art of healthy play. With yoga as the foundation, these classes explore storytelling, theme activities, and will engage the natural energy of your young yogi. Classes explore yoga poses, breathing exercises, self-expression, positive thinking, and environmental awareness. Ages 6-10. $10 residents of Winnebago County, $12 non- residents. Call 815-987-8858 or visit www.nicholasconservatory.com to register.
Byron Forest Preserve District Perseid Meteor Watch Friday, August 15 9:00 p.m. – Midnight Meet at the Weiskopf Observatory We will discover the beauty of shooting stars during this annual event. Bring your own binoculars or use ours. A blanket and a lawn chair may come in handy too. This is a free program open to all ages. Call 815-234-8535 to register by noon on August 13.
Atwood Center In the Outdoors Saturday, August 16 Time TBD Join the Environmental Recreation and Education staff of the Rockford Park District for fun family outdoor events. Check the RPD website for more details or you may call the Atwood Center at 815-874-7576. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Home-milked Ice Cream Saturday, August 16 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Can you guess which ingredients in ice cream come from the farm? Together, we’ll milk the goats, visit the beehive, and look for fruit around our organic farm. Then, we'll make up a batch of home-grown, homemade ice cream. We'll even get to eat this sweet treat together. Yum! Please register for each family member age 3 and up. $11 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.
62 Angelic Organics Learning Center Kids with Cob Saturday, August 16 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Come cooperate with others to construct a mini eco-village while learning natural building techniques. Use your hands to build model homes using a mixture of clay, sand and straw, called “cob”, then use your imagination to create stories about people in the community. Perfect for kids who love to get dirty, as well as those who love building things. Adults register with children. Plan to save room in your car to take your creation home. $12 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Food Preserving 101 Sunday, August 17 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. The novice food preserver is invited to this basic introduction and practical skills course. After an overview of food safety and reasons to preserve, we jump right into hands-on demonstrations of freezing, dehydrating, and canning, using fresh tomatoes as an example. Take a delicious jar of tomatoes home with you! $50 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden Woodsong Outdoor Concert Series – Big Daddy Woo Woo Sunday, August 17 6:00 p.m., Doors open at 4:00 p.m. Woodsong is in its 19th year of music in the garden. Concerts are held outdoors on the lawn in Klehm’s magnificent Fountain Garden. Bring a chair, pillow or blanket and a picnic dinner. Concerts are held rain or shine! We have a rain site. Sponsored by Pierce Distribution Services. If dancing and just plain having a good time is what you like to do, then we’re the band for you! Big Daddy Woo Woo is a very well- seasoned band with years of musical experience. This Band has opened up for “KC and The Sunshine Band”, played with members of “The Time”, opened up for ”Confunkshun”, opened up for “38 Special” and also played after “Earth, Wind & Fire” as the finale for the Beloit Riverfest! Come out and be part of the fun! Members: $5, Non-Members: $10 Contact Dawn for groups of 10 or more. [email protected] , 815-965-8146
63 Natural Land Institute Fall Field Botany Day Tuesday, August 19, 2014 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fall Field Botany Day - Plant Identification: Grasses, Prairie Wildflowers and Weeds Join Natural Land Institute on an exploration, led by botanist Paul Bollinger, President, Bollinger Environmental, who has conducted plant ID classes with Libertyville Township and DuPage County. Learn about our area’s grasses, prairie wildflowers and weeds. Transportation and lunch will be provided for this all day educational program. Fee: TBD. Maximum: 20 participants. Register at: 815-964-6666, [email protected] or www.NaturalLand.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Farm Fresh Chefs: Pizza Tuesday, August 19 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Kids who love to cook will love our Farm Fresh Chefs series for homeschoolers. In the first class of the series, we'll make pizza. We'll make our own sauce, harvest toppings from the farm, and even bake it in our earth oven. Register for children ages 6 to 14. $20 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Welty Environmental Center Summer Harvest Cast Iron Cooking Class Tuesday, August 19 at Beckman Mill County Park 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Learn how to take the bountiful harvest from your garden to your table. All food, supplies and instruction are provided. We will be using cast iron Dutch ovens to create a soup course, bread, main course and dessert. Bring your sense of culinary adventure and an appetite. You will be assigned a course to assist in completing, and all will sample everything. Recipes and tips will be provided for your future campfire suppers. Cost is $30 per person. Register by 8/12 at 608-361-1377 or email [email protected] .
64 Wild Ones®– Rock River Valley Chapter Program: Learning the Butterflies in Our Local Native Landscapes Thursday, August 21 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Rock Valley College-Woodward Technology Center, 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61114 Don Miller, Director of Severson Dells Nature Center, will take us on a fascinating photo journey around Winnebago County to show us the wonderful variety of butterflies in natural areas. Learn how the native plants in your yard can be home and host to these same beautiful jewels! This program is free and open to the public. Call 815-627-0344.
Angelic Organics Learning Center Introduction to Seed-Saving Saturday, August 23 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Take your garden to the next level by learning to save seeds from your best fruits, vegetables and flowers. At this workshop, you'll learn the basics about saving your own seed from a variety of crops and get hands- on experience saving tomato seeds for next season. $45 Please pre- register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Byron Forest Preserve District Trip to Garfield Farm Museum – Heirloom Garden Show, LaFox, Illinois Sunday, August 24 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Prairie Center Experience the Garfield Farm Museum’s 25th Annual Heirloom Garden Show and view plant varieties that are seldom seen today. Interact with dozens of Midwestern growers showing their favorite heirloom flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables. The show highlights the importance of preserving genetic diversity of plants that were popular in American culture from at least 50 to 100+ years ago. Many garden seeds, plants and products will be for sale. The 1840’s Garfield Farm and Tavern, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its 374 acres of historic gardens, barns, restored prairie and savanna will also be open for tours during this special event. The $20 per person trip cost includes admission to the museum. Food and refreshments will be available on site for an additional fee. Register by Thursday, August 21 by calling 815-234-8535.
65 Angelic Organics Learning Center Farm Fresh Chefs: Pasta Tuesday, August 26 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Kids who love to cook will love our Farm Fresh Chefs series for homeschoolers. Kids will learn to make pasta from scratch, and top their handcrafted creations with freshly harvested veggies. Register for children ages 6 to 14. $20 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
Angelic Organics Learning Center Permaculture Design Certificate Class Saturday-Sunday, August 30-September 7 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Permaculture is an ecological design system for more sustainable lives and communities. It combines sustainable agriculture, natural building, water management, community development and more. This 10-day course will provide students with opportunities to develop a strong understanding of the concepts and themes of the Permaculture Design System, as well as hands-on opportunities to apply the system in practical situations. The course fee includes breakfast, lunch and snacks each day. We're excited to welcome Wayne Weiseman of the Permaculture Project to Angelic Organics Learning Center as the instructor for this course. $1200 Please pre-register 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org .
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Angelic Organics Learning Center 1547 Rockton Road Caledonia, IL 61011 Farm Phone: 1-815-389-8455 For our Chicago urban programs office: 1-773-991-0786 Fax: 1-425-969-0317 www.LearnGrowConnect.org Angelic Organics Learning Center helps urban and rural people build local food systems. The Learning Center offers opportunities to grow healthy food and a better quality of life, connect with farmers and the land, and learn agricultural and leadership skills. The Learning Center, a nonprofit organization, reaches more than 4,000 people each year through its programs at partner farms and urban growing sites in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. For more information or to get involved, please visit www.LearnGrowConnect.org .
67 Atwood Environmental Center Rockford Park District 2685 New Milford School Rd. Rockford, IL 61109-4435 1-815-874-7576 FAX: 1-815-874-2467 www.rockfordparkdistrict.org School and Community Group Outings: Spend a full or half-day at the Atwood Environmental Center. Explore the various nature neighborhoods such as oak forest, tall grass prairie and the Kishwaukee River bottomlands. Sample from a variety of sessions that include teams courses, nature and cultural history hikes, outdoor living skills with archery and fishing. (In season). Some activities can be brought to community groups and school sites. In general, sessions are approximately 3 hours in length, and require a minimum of sixteen participants. We also offer residential experiences of 1 ½ or 2 ½ days. Call 1-815-874-7576 to schedule a date for your school or group outing. Birds of Prey: The Atwood Environmental Center cares for six non- releasable raptors, including owls, hawks, a kestrel, and an eagle. Presentations: Focusing on native species, Atwood’s Birds of Prey presentations deliver a powerful educational and environmental message for people of all ages. Call for fees and scheduling 1-815-874-7576. Facility Rentals: The Atwood Center allows for an incredible experience in the outdoors, while providing all the comforts of home. Please call 1-815-874-7576 for rates and availability.
Boone County Conservation District 603 N. Appleton Road Belvidere, IL 61008 Open M - F: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 1-815-547-7935 www.bccdil.org The BCCD manages over 3,500 acres of open space comprised of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands within 25 conservation areas. Educational and recreational opportunities are offered year round. The district hosts field trips, workshops, and summer camps. The BCCD mission is to preserve and manage natural areas and open spaces for ecological, educational, and recreational benefits of present and future generations. Volunteers Wanted. All year long. Do you like being outdoors and meeting new people? Call the Volunteer coordinator at 1-815-547-7935
68 Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 North Main Street Rockford, IL 61103 1-815-965-3433 - Phone 1-815-965-2703 - Fax www.burpee.org Burpee Museum of Natural History, located at 737 North Main Street, Rockford, Illinois, is home of Jane, Rockford’s Celebrity Dinosaur. Unearthed in the Badlands of Montana the summer of 2002 by Burpee paleontologists, Jane is considered one of the most spectacular finds in the history of paleontology. Established in 1941, the Burpee Museum, one of the preeminent natural history museums, is located on the banks of the Rock River in Rockford, Illinois. Museum hours are 10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., seven days a week. Closed Major Holidays. Free parking is available at Burpee Museum at 737 North Main Street. Additional parking information is available on the website. Visit www.burpee.org or call 1 815 965 3433 for current admission fees and information about membership. General admission is free for Burpee Museum members and children under 4 years of age. Visit www.burpee.org
Byron Forest Preserve 7993 N. River Rd Byron, IL 61010 1-815-234-8535 www.byronforestpreserve.com Field trips to Natural History Museum, Observatory, and Heritage Farm: Scouts, schools, and senior groups are welcome to the Forest Preserve for an educational and fun tour of our great museums. Staff welcomes and gives tours for the low cost of $1.50/person with a minimum of $30/group. We offer many sessions to choose from including prairie ecology, astronomy, and museum tour. Call 1-815-234-8535, ext. 217 to schedule your next outing with us. Natural History Museum, Heritage Farm Museum, Weiskopf Observatory, Preschool Classes, Recycling Station, Canoe Rentals, Ski/Sled/Snowshoe rentals, Outreach: We offer educational programs to any group including retirement homes and nursing facilities for a small fee. Call today to book your next on site program.
69 DeKalb County Forest Preserve District 110 East Sycamore Street Sycamore, IL 60178 1-815-895-7191 www.dekalbcounty.org
The Dome Education & Gathering Center 6524 Belvidere Road Roscoe, IL 61073 1-815-623-9878 FAX 1-815-623-3531 e-mail: [email protected] www.thedomecenter.com Our mission as a learning center is to host and promote events and gatherings that raise awareness of local, national and global environmental realities and inspire caring citizens to reflect, connect, communicate, and act as responsible caretakers of the earth by creating sustainable communities.
Environmental Education Association of Illinois www.eeai.net
Four Rivers Environmental Coalition Comprised of over 30 organizations in an area made up of the watersheds of the Rock, Sugar, Pecatonica and Kishwaukee Rivers in north central Illinois whose vision and mission is to: • Demonstrate the needs and benefits of Open Space advocacy by supporting regional-wide planning for the preservation of open spaces, park and recreational opportunities. • Provide a source for scientifically sound information to assist decision makers in devising policy and actions concerning the protection, acquisition, restoration and management of natural areas and open spaces. • Promote, coordinate, and facilitate the restoration, management, and protection of existing and future natural areas. • Increase the public’s awareness and understanding of our region’s biodiversity by developing, coordinating, and promoting environmental education programs and events for life long learning. • Develop relationships and partnerships with private sectors, corporations, and businesses to provide financial resources for the continuation of economic and quality of life benefits for all.
Meetings are held on the last Wednesday of each odd numbered month at the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District office, 5500 Northrock
70 Drive, Rockford, IL 61103. For more information visit: www.fourriver.org or contact: 1-815-877-6100, or [email protected] .
Friends of the Kishwaukee River 815-601-5567 [email protected] www.kishwaukeeriver.org Friends of the Kishwaukee River is a grassroots, community initiative in Winnebago County, Illinois, created to establish public awareness of the beauty and ecology of the Kishwaukee River, one of the highest quality streams in Illinois, and the many threats to its health. The mission of Friends of the Kishwaukee River is to promote good stewardship of the river and the surrounding public lands, encourage safe and responsible recreation, and protect its watershed from degradation.
Hoo Haven 10823 Cleveland Road Durand, IL 61024 815-629-2212 [email protected] www.hoohaven.org Hoo Haven Wildlife and Education Center is a not for profit 501 (c) 3 organization which has been operating outside your back door for over 25 years. Our goal is to rehab orphaned and injured North American Wildlife and release them back into the wild, educate others as to the part they can play in helping Mother Earth and how to help with conservation efforts to make it a better place to live. We do over 120 programs per year in northern Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa and are known for “bringing the field trip to you.” Programs offered include Birds of Prey, Feathers and Feet, Snakes and Rats and our own Wildlife Trunks. We show individuals that there is a wealth of wildlife right at their own back door. Programs must be booked 8 weeks in advance. Hoo Haven has many opportunities for community service projects, whether it is for, 4-H, Work Days for companies, probation hours, etc. Call 815-629-2212 to find out about the various opportunities for groups and individuals. Hoo Haven is now “going green’ by utilizing renewable energy technology. Our own Solar Voltaic system is up and running and producing electricity. We also now have a vertical axis wind generator on site. Tours are available by appointment. There is much to see and tours take at least one hour and include the PV Solar System and the Wind Generator. Tour cost is $10 per person for anyone over 12 years of age. Children 12 and under are free. For more information on volunteering, donating, time, materials or financial support, please call.
71 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful 5417 North Second Street Loves Park, IL 61111 1-815-637-1343 FAX: 1-815-637-0525 [email protected] www.facebook.com/KeepNorthernIllinoisBeautiful Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, the regional Keep America Beautiful affiliate, is a volunteer-driven, 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization founded in 1988. Its mission is to improve our environment through education, public awareness and community involvement. For more information on any of our recycling drives and awards programs, please visit our website at www.knib.org. Volunteers may also register online for the Metals & Electronics Drives and the Clothing Drives. Sign up to receive our email newsletter to stay informed about all our events.
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St. Rockford, IL 61102 815-965-8146 FAX: 815-965-5914 [email protected] http://klehm.org www.facebook.com/KlehmArboretum Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a 155-acre living museum filled with spectacular gardens and rare trees. There’s beauty in every season from fragrant magnolia trees in spring and a butterfly garden in summer to the brilliant colors of fall and snow-capped evergreens in winter. A 1.8 mile, handicapped-accessible paved path winds through the arboretum plus many secondary, chipped trails. Kids will have fun navigating the maze in the Children’s Garden. Filled with botanic beauty, Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is waiting for you to explore. Klehm offers a unique, elegant location with a variety of natural settings for wedding ceremonies, receptions or business meetings. We partner with the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District. For visitor information or to arrange for a tour call 815-965-8146 or visit www.klehm.org .
72 Macktown Living History Education Center Located at Macktown Forest Preserve, 2221 Freeport Rd., Rockton, IL 61072 MLHEC, P.O. Box 566, Rockton, IL 61072 1-815-624-4200 www.macktownlivinghistory.com [email protected] macktownfacebook Macktown Living History Education Center is a non-profit organization located within Macktown Forest Preserve. Their mission is to restore the site of the original Pecatonic (now Macktown) settlement and provide education on early 1800’s life through programs and events throughout the year. Macktown is listed on the National Historic Register and offers tours of two of the original buildings on Sundays in the summer months or by chance or appointment. A historic garden is tended by volunteers, anyone interested may join us on March 5 for the first workday or call 1-815-624-4200 to learn the 2013 garden schedule. Events and workshops year-round.
Midway Village Museum 6799 Guilford Road Rockford, IL 61107 1-815-397-9112 www.midwayvillage.com Midway Village Museum & Heritage Garden Program Midway Village Museum is a 137-acre museum comfortably nestled among a picturesque background of native prairie, woodlands and heirloom gardens that encourage visitors to step-back-in-time to the 1900s. The open air museum is a Victorian Village (1890 to 1910) of 26 historical buildings filled with artifacts of the era as well as several beautiful 19th century gardens. Interpreters in authentic period dress are available seasonally for guided tours. The main museum building holds a number of permanent exhibits reflecting Rockford’s history and culture. As a part of the village, the Heritage Garden Program has recreated historic gardens in the village using 19th century garden designs, structures, ornamentation and heirloom plants. In addition to the cultivated garden areas, Midway Village Museum is actively engaged in prairie restoration. When the first settlers arrived in Northern Illinois, 22 million acres of prairie dominated the landscape and gave Illinois its nickname, the Prairie State. An ongoing program aimed at restoring this unique biological community began in 2005. The creation of a native wetland earned the Superior Achievement Award by the Illinois Association of Museums in 2006.
73 Natural Land Institute 320 South Third Street Rockford, Illinois 61104 1-815-964-6666 Fax: 1-815-964-6661 E-mail: [email protected] www.naturalland.org, [email protected], www.Facebook.com/NaturalLandInstitute, www.Facebook.com/NygrenWetlandPreserve, www.Twitter.com/NLI1958, www.Instagram.com/NLI1958 . Open Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The mission of the Natural Land Institute is to create an enduring legacy of natural land in northern Illinois for people, plants and animals. We do this by preserving forests, prairies and wetlands for native plants and animals, restoring habitat for wildlife, protecting rivers and streams for fish and other aquatic species, educating people about their part in nature, and providing opportunities to enjoy natural areas to enrich the lives of residents of northern Illinois. NLI offers volunteer opportunities, educational programs and nature walks at our preserves. Workdays and programs are often scheduled at the Nygren Wetland Preserve, a 721-acre restoration project located a mile west of Rockton, Illinois.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens 1354 N. 2nd Street Rockford, Illinois 815-987-8858 www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is situated along the banks of our beautiful Rock River in Sinnissippi Gardens. The facility opened at the end of October 2011 and is now the third largest conservatory in Illinois. The site will be recognized as LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), the recognized standard for measuring building sustainability.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Highlights: • Water features, seating areas, and sculptures - all in an 11,00 square foot tropical plant exhibition area • Changing seasonal floral displays and special events • Educational programs where children can learn the importance of plants • Special workshops and lecture series for adults 74 • The perfect place to host your event - small weddings, receptions, business meetings • Garden Gate Gifts – shop for unique presents and seasonal gifts
Admission Adults ...... $6.00 residents, $8 non-residents Students ...... $4 residents, $6 non-residents Seniors ...... $4.00 residents & non-residents Children ages 4 and under free when accompanied by an adult. Call for information about rental space to accommodate up to 120 people for meetings, weddings or special events:815-987-8858 for information. “Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/nicholasconservatory) for discounts and special offers!”
North Central Illinois Ornithological Society (NCIOS) Meetings are held at Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, IL www.ncios.org NCIOS meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month, except in June and September when the club meets at 6:00 p.m. in area forest preserves and parks. NCIOS does not meet in July, August, and December. Meetings feature educational programs about birds, birding equipment, places and times to watch birds, recent area bird sightings, bird identification tips, and members’ birding trips, etc. The Club offers bird watching field trips to local sites of interest, as well as the annual Christmas, Spring, and Sandhill Crane bird counts. Visitors are always welcomed and carpooling is available for field trips. For more information, please visit the club’s web site, www.ncios.org , or call Lynda Johnson, President, at 815-629-2781.
75 Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab and Education 6320 Poplar Street Loves Park, IL 61111 1-815-633-9193 www.northernillinoisraptor.org Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab & Education is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured, sick and orphaned birds of prey, with the goal of returning strong, healthy birds back to the wild. Our “Education Ambassadors” are non-releasable hawks, owls, falcons, etc. We have 14 raptors representing 10 different species. We offer interactive, up-close-and personal “live” bird of prey programs engaging a wide variety of audiences. These venues include, schools, businesses, various groups & organizations, festivals, scouts, nursing homes/retirement homes and any others who desire to gain knowledge and understanding of raptors, their natural history, their habitat, and the roles they play in nature and in our lives. Display materials include biological materials such as wings, feathers, tails, and feet, etc., which participants are invited to view and touch. Many other informative materials are also displayed. Visit our website at north - ernillinoisraptor.org or our blog for more information about us and future events. Call us at 1-815-633-9193 or e-mail Candy Ridlbauer at [email protected] .
Northwest Illinois Audubon Society P.O. Box 771 Freeport, IL 61032 The Northwest Illinois Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, provides many opportunities for environmental action at the local level. The Society’s strongest commitments are in the areas of public environmental education, natural areas management and sustainable agriculture. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month, September-May in Freeport. Field trips are offered on a regular basis, and a bimonthly newsletter is sent to members. Many stewardship days are scheduled each summer on prairie remnants managed by the Society, including Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve near Forreston. In addition, the Society participates in the annual Christmas Bird Count, promotes member action on environmental legislation, provides environmental education materials to local school classrooms and offers scholarships for ecology workshops and ornithology courses. Visit www.nwilaudubon.org to see our newsletter and find out about programs. 76 David C. Olson Photography 7801 East State Street, Inside the Clock Tower Rockford IL 61108 815-873-1777 www.davidolsonphoto.com Nationally published photographers David and Adrienne Olson from Olson Photography offer fine portraiture, wedding, schools and of course wildlife photography. Olson photography is a full service studio that offers the latest in digital services. Waterfalls and reflection ponds are part of their outdoor sets. Inside, the studio is home to the Wild Images gallery. A collection of images from the natural world framed and matted for sale for your home and business. Also David’s images are printed on note cards, calendars and books with his breathtaking nature imagery. David Olson also leads photo workshops in the area and globally to find beauty and teach others how to create better images. A must see is their Audio and Visual large screen presentations of the natural world. These inspiring shows are great for organizations, companies, nature centers and school groups. Call to book a date for your group.
Rocktown Adventures 313 N. Madison Street Rockford, IL 61103 815-636-9066 and 107 Spruce St Aurora, IL 630-506-5706 www.rocktownadventures.com Rocktown Adventures is an independently owned specialty outdoor retailer with locations in Aurora, IL and Rockford, IL. Our mission is to provide the Chicagoland, Northern Illinois, and Southern Wisconsin community an opportunity to embrace an outdoor lifestyle through participation in outdoor recreation using their community’s natural assets. We want our appreciation of the outdoors to inspire you to take on new challenges, leading to a healthier lifestyle, and ultimately helping you define your idea of outdoor recreation. As a leader in the outdoor industry and in the larger community, we use outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship and to improve access to both water and land trails for increased recreational opportunities. Our outdoor adventure experts are standing by to help you get ready for your next adventure.
77 Rock Valley College 3301 North Mulford Road Rockford, IL 61114 815) 921-7821 www.rockvalleycollege.edu As a community’s college, we make a difference through teaching, learning and leading. Rock Valley College is a comprehensive two-year community college in Rockford, Illinois offering more than 100 courses for transfer, career programs and certificates. Founded in 1964, the college is part of the 48- institution Illinois Community College System. Service Area- All of Winnebago County, most of Boone County and portions of Ogle, Stephenson, McHenry and DeKalb counties. The total population served is more than 340,000.
Facilities • 217-acre wooded campus • Facilities Main Campus, North Mulford Road, Rockford Stenstrom Center for Career Education, Samuelson Road, Rockford Bell School Road Center, Bell School Road, Rockford Falcon Road Center, Falcon Road, Rockford North Main Street Center, North Main Street, Rockford Learning and Opportunity Center, 308 West State Street (Stewart Square), Rockford Bengt Sjostrom Theatre, home of Starlight Theatre Comprehensive athletic complex and walking path Modern classroom and labs
Sand Bluff Bird Observatory Colored Sands Forest Preserve, Haas Road, Shirland, IL Mail: P.O. Box 2 Seward, IL. 61077 1-815-629-2671 www.sandbluff.org Sand Bluff Bird Observatory is one of the largest small-bird banding operations in the country that is open to the public. Sand Bluff is, and always has been, run entirely by volunteers who band birds, serve as guides for visitors, and present educational programs. Although Sand
78 Bluff is a research facility, education is also a high priority. Special events allowing visitors to interact with owls and hawks are available by reservation. Please see the calendar for available dates. Individual and group visits to Sand Bluff are welcome. For more information or to schedule a group tour call 1-815-621-0607. A map is available on the Winnebago County Forest Preserve website at: http://www.wcfpd.org/preserves/NWMap.cfm
Severson Dells Nature Center Located at Severson Dells Forest Preserve 8786 Montague Road Rockford, IL 61102 1-815-335-2915 FAX: 1-815-335-2471 www.seversondells.org Nature Center Hours: Monday through Saturday: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday: 1:00-4:30 p.m. Severson Dells Nature Center’s mission is to link people to nature through education and research in the northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin area. The Nature Center promotes awareness of the natural world, fostering respect, enjoyment and preservation now and in the future. Educational programs are offered weekly to people of all ages and interests. Nature Library with over 2,000 titles available for check- out to members of “Friends of Severson Dells.”
Blackhawk Sierra Club 201 Seventh Street Rockford, Illinois 61104 www.illinois.sierraclub.org/blackhawk Founded in 1879 by John Muir, the Sierra Club is the one of the oldest, largest, most influential environmental organization in the United States. Our mission is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote the responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment; and to use all lawful means to carry out these objectives. The Blackhawk Group of the Illinois Chapter is dedicated to environmental education, outdoor recreation, and political action in McHenry, Boone, Winnebago, Stephenson, Jo Daviess, Carroll, Ogle, Lee, and Whiteside Counties.
79 Sinnissippi Audubon Society P.O. Box 7544, Rockford, IL 61126 1-815-398-2974 Sinnissippi Audubon Society is a local chapter of the National Audubon Society in Winnebago and Boone Counties. Membership meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the months September through June. Field Trips are also scheduled during the year.
Sugar-Pecatonica Rivers Ecosystem Partnership 320 South Third Street Rockford, Illinois 61104 1-815-964-6666 The mission of the Sugar-Pecatonica Rivers Ecosystem Partnership is to demonstrate leadership in preservation and management of the Sugar and Pecatonica rivers’ ecosystems and natural resources and to promote responsible and sustainable use of these resources.
Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens 411 Kent St. Rockford, IL. 61102 1-815-964-2424 www.tinkercottage.com
University of Illinois Extension - Winnebago County 1040 N. Second St. Rockford, Illinois, 61107 Phone: 1-815-986-4357 FAX: 1-815-986-4329 http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw
Welty Environmental Center 8606 W. County Rd. H Beloit, WI 53511 (608) 361-1377 www.weltycenter.org [email protected] The Welty Environmental Center offers environmental education for all ages in the Stateline region, from pre-K through adults. Groups including schools, scouts, homeschool, 4-H and more are welcome. Annual festivals celebrating the natural world, along with school and public programs, are offered year-round. The Welty Environmental Center is headquartered in Beckman Mill County Park (7 miles west of Beloit) which is rich in natural and cultural history. Regular center hours are 8:30am-4:30pm Monday-Friday. Please call ahead as staff may be offsite with programs. 80 Wild Ones® Website: www.WildOnesRRVC.org email: [email protected] call: 1-815-627-0344 Mail: 5411 E. State PMB340, Rockford, IL 61108 Wild Ones is a national not-for-profit organization with a local chapter that teaches about the many benefits of growing native wildflowers in people’s yards. Most meetings are held most months, the third Thursday, at OUR NEW LOCATION: Rock Valley College-Woodward Technology Center (WTC), 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61114. Meetings provide presentations on native plants and related topics for ideas, how- to, and inspiration for native landscaping. There are also plant sales, “show me-help me” tours, and member socials.
Willow’s Cleaning Service 422 Patti Lane Machesney Park, IL 61115 1-815-520-4996 www.willowscleaning.com Willows Cleaning Service provides environmentally friendly house cleaning, office cleaning, maid services with natural non-toxic products. Willows Cleaning Service was nominated for a Winnebago County Green Business of the Year. We strive for excellence and education in saving our planet one client at a time. Willow’s Cleaning Service provides peace of mind at a competitive price. Service area includes Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, Roscoe, Belvidere, Boone County, South Beloit, Rockton.
Services include: • Peace of Mind House Cleaning • Clutter Removal • Estate Clean Outs • Weekly Home Cleaning-Office Cleaning • Bi-weekly House and Office Cleaning • One Time Cleanings • Spring and Fall Cleanups • Move In and Move Out Cleaning
81 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District 5500 Northrock Dr. Rockford, IL 61103 1-815-877-6100 www.wcfpd.org The Winnebago County Forest Preserve District owns and manages over 10,300 acres of forest preserves and trails for citizens and visitors of Winnebago County. The District partners with local environmental education organizations to provide an array of life-long learning opportunities at forest preserve sites. Severson Dells, Macktown Living History, Klehm Arboretum, and Sand Bluff Bird Observatory offer unique opportunities for families, students, youth groups and individuals to gain intimate knowledge of the plants and animals of our native Illinois habitats. Four campgrounds, 27 shelterhouses, eight boat ramps, 100 miles of hiking trails, six designated nature preserves are just some of the benefits offered at the District’s 42 sites. Over 1,500,000 people visit Winnebago County forest preserves each year for picnics, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, camping, concerts, field trips and special events. Call or visit our website for free maps and brochures to help you find and enjoy some of the most beautiful natural areas in the Midwest.
Winnebago County Health Department 401 Division Street Rockford, IL 61104 www.wchd.org The Winnebago County Health Department Vision is to help promote a safe and healthy community in Winnebago County. Our Mission Statement is “To generate community efforts and interest, to prevent disease, promote health and assure that vital elements are in place to improve the health of the residents of Winnebago County.” This includes education on and protection of groundwater, regulation of private septic and well systems to protect health and groundwater supplies, provide environmental lab testing services, assure food sanitation at public facilities and events, and to assure minimum standards for healthy houses, properties and subdivisions. Other programs currently provided to assure a healthy environment include but are not limited to West Nile Virus surveillance, radon surveillance in homes, child lead exposure monitoring and elimination, and the promotion of proper disposal and / or recycling practices for hazardous materials such a mercury thermometers.
82 Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District 4833 Owen Center Road Rockford, IL 61101 Monday-Friday: 8:00am - 4:30 pm Phone: 1-815-965-2392, x. 3 Fax: 1-815-965-2447 www.winnebagoswcd.org The Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District is a locally operated unit of government functioning under Illinois law. Our mission is to promote the protection, restoration, and wise use of the soil, water, and related resources within the district. We provide technical and educational resources in the areas of soils and land use, water quality, soil erosion in both urban and agricultural land uses, conservation program needs, wildlife habitat, and native ecosystem restoration and management.
83 The production of this booklet is generously supported by:
Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau - gorockford.com and the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District - wcfpd.org
Please consider becoming a sponsor to support the production of this FREE booklet! The FREC Calendar of Events is a quarterly publication created by our members to help guide residents and visitors in the discovery of rivers, prairies, woodlands, wildflowers and wildlife “in our own backyard.”
Help support this region’s environmental community by contributing to the production of this free educational resource. Please, make checks payable to the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (with the notation 'Four Rivers Environmental Coalition' in the memo line) and send your contribution to: Jamie Johannsen, 5500 Northrock Drive, Rockford, IL, 61103.
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The production of this booklet is generously supported by the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District