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Cap Sauers is the largest nature preserve in northeastern Illinois. Its 1,520 acres feature rolling hills, running streams, and the Visitation esker, a rare type of glacial formation. Restoration activities include the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and buckthorn, and the collection and distribution of seeds of desirable native plants. Main tools used are loppers and hand saws. Weather permitting, we may build and burn brush piles.Youth under 18 must be accompanied by a legal parent/guardian or attend with a chaperoned organized youth group (school, scouts, church). Volunteers under age 18 must have their volunteer waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Schedule Slots Available!
18 Jan 2025
Stewardship Volunteer Days
Meeting Place: Site of former FP watchman's house, Ford Road, about 0.9 miles north then west of the intersection of McCarthy Road and Wolf Road ("Volunteers" sign at driveway)
Contact: Margaret Tobin
Phone: (708) 945-4718
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sign Up Individual Sign Up Group
15 Feb 2025
15 Mar 2025
Site of former FP watchman's house, Ford Road, about 0.9 miles north then west of the intersection of McCarthy Road and Wolf Road ("Volunteers" sign at driveway)
Contact person for opportunity
Contact person: Cap Sauers Steward Margaret Tobin magert52@gmail.com (708) 945-4718
Website:https://www.restorepalos.com/
Requirements All volunteers need to complete the volunteer agreement and waiver form in order to participate. Be prepared for variable weather, uneven terrain, standing and/or walking for two or more hours, working near a fire, and hazardous insects and plants. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by a legal parent/guardian or attend with a chaperoned organized youth group (school, scouts, church). Volunteers under age 18 must have their volunteer waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. What to Expect Stewardship volunteers help to restore natural habitat by performing seasonal restoration tasks. The work may include removing weeds and invasive vegetation, cutting and burning invasive woody plants, collecting and spreading native seed, and collecting trash. These tasks may incorporate the use of tools, including hand saws, loppers, pruning shears, trowels, shovels, rakes, and other hand tools (manual). All necessary tools, supplies, gloves, and training will be provided. Safety While we strive to create the safest environment possible, it is impossible to eliminate all potential hazards when working outside in nature. Volunteers are advised to wear long pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes and other seasonally appropriate clothing that can get dirty. Bring a water bottle. Hazards may include stinging or biting insects, poison ivy, walking on uneven terrain, a fire to burn cut brush, and inclement weather. All individuals should consider their level of risk for the COVID-19 virus prior to engaging in any volunteer service. Review the Forest Preserve's COVID-19 page each day before volunteering for important updates and safety precautions. DO NOT attempt to volunteer if in the last 14 days you: 1. have any of the symptoms related to COVID-19 as identified by the Centers for Disease Control 2. have traveled to any foreign country or states with a high incidence of COVID-19 infections.
