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Save the world one acre at a time. Join us for an ecological restoration workday. Cut and burn invasive brush, harvest native seed in season and have fun.Find us on Facebook!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.
Ongoing Opportunity
This opportunity has a schedule. Click view schedule belowon the left to see available times.
Description of location Drive through outer parking lot, bear right at 'Y'. Look for Habitat Managment signs. gps 41.766382, -87.867719
Contact person
Contact person: Master Steward LuAnne Dudlo luanne.dudlo@gmail.com (708) 724-4300
Secondary contact: Master Steward John Dudlo jdudlo@gmail.com 312 988 5946
Requirements Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate. 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. 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
What to wear/bring
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate.
The Bartel Grassland Volunteers are restoring a 585 acre hayfield to a grassland where bobolinks nest in the spring/summer and short-eared owls feed in the winter. Participating in volunteer restoration is one of the best ways to enjoy and develop a deeper understanding of Bartel Grassland. Volunteers can work on invasive plant control, seed harvesting, hydrological restoration and more.
Description of location Before workday, text/call Chuck Scannell (# 708-227-3912) for specific meeting place. Parking lot is on the south side of Flossmoor Rd, just west of Central Ave.
Contact person: Site Steward Chuck Scannel chuckscannell@yahoo.com
Requirements Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate. 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. 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.
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate.Black Partridge Woods is one of the first dedicated nature preserves in Illinois. The 80 acre site features river bluffs, ravine forests, and spring-fed streams. The preserve boasts one of the earliest and diverse displays of spring wildflowers in the region. Restoration activities center on the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and barberry with the use of loppers and hand saws. Weather permitting we will build and burn brush piles.
Unlimited Positions available!
Frequency:
Description of location Meet at the Black Partridge Woods parking lot, which is on the north side of Bluff Road, 1.2 miles west of Lemont Road in Lemont. Bluff Road is roughly 111th Street south.
Contact person: Steward John Marlin restorepalos@gmail.com
Secondary contact: Jan Pietrzak janaugust@sbcglobal.net 708-439-1767
Website:https://www.restorepalos.com/
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.
Description of location 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: Cap Sauers Steward Margaret Tobin magert52@gmail.com (708) 945-4718
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.
Cranberry Slough Nature Preserve is surrounded by woodlands, savanna, and prairie. Distinguished by its peat bog ecosystem cradled by rolling upland woods, the site is a relic of the glacial era and supports habitats uncommon this far south. Restoration activities focus on around the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and barberry. Collection and distribution of seeds may also be done in season.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.
Description of location Meet at Country Lane Woods parking lot, on the south side of 95th Street about a half mile west of La Grange Road (Route 45). We normally park at the back end of the lot.
Contact person: Regional Steward Joe Neumann restorepalos@gmail.com (773) 434-1415
Hidden Pond Woods offers a variety of delights, all within a short walk of the parking lot. The southern portion is oak woodland with small wetlands. The northern half is largely prairie, growing in increments year by year as more ground is reclaimed by volunteer efforts. Restoration activities include the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and buckthorn, and the collection and distribution of seeds of desirable native 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.
Description of location Show mapMeet at Hidden Pond West parking lot on east side of LaGrange Rd (Route 45 Northbound).
Contact person: Jan Pietrzak restorepalos@gmail.com (708) 439-1767
Secondary contact: Volunteer Resources kristin.dapra@cookcountyil.gov
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 Stewardship leaders will provide you with a safe work environment and will identify any potential hazards in the working area. 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.
Management Schedule
Litter threatens the health and beauty of our natural areas. Show that you care and inspire others to care by cleaning up your favorite grove, trail or shoreline."Litter Hot Spots" Click here for our list!
Description of location eCoordinator description of location
Contact person: Airis Cervantes airis.cervantes@cookcountyil.gov
Secondary contact: Linda Loranger linda.loranger@cookcountyil.gov
* This is your self-led project- you may lead your group on any day and at any open Forest Preserves site. * Customize your day by adding fun group educational & recreational activities * Once you apply for this Opportunity, a staff member will contact you to confirm details of your group workday and where you can pickup your disposable gloves and bags. Be prepared to tell us: 1. Date and time of your workday: 2. Estimated number of volunteers: 3. Forest Preserve location: 4. Project leader name: 5. Project leader cell number: 6. If you would like to request disposable gloves and bags
Did you know the oak woodland is more endangered than the tropical rain forest? Won't you help us remove invasive plants so the oaks can have sunlight and space once again? Gloves, tools, goggles, and light refreshments are provided.
Description of location
Contact person: Naturalist Karen Garrett karen.garrett@cookcountyil.gov (708) 839-6897
Website:https://fpdcc.com
Waiver
Mill Creek runs through the eastern, lowland portion of McClaughrey Springs. To the west are densely wooded ridges and ravines. The preserve is a popular destination for hikers and birders. Restoration activities focus on the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and buckthorn, and the collection and distribution of seeds of desirable native 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.
Description of location Meet at Palos Parks Woods North parking lot, on the east side of Kean Avenue about a block south of Route 83.
Contact person: McClaughrey Springs Steward Diana Krug restorepalos@gmail.com
McMahon Woods and Fen, an Illinois Nature Preserve, contains a rare wetland fen distinguished by its alkaline, mineral-laden water. The water in a fen percolates through limestone and emerges as a seep, or spring. Volunteer activities center on the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and barberry. Collection and distribution of seeds may also be done in season.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.
Description of location Meet at the unpaved parking lot and turnaround on the south side of 107th St., 1/2 mile west of La Grange Road (Route 45). This is across 107th St. from the southern end of the Old Country Lane trail.
Are you passionate about the dog community and the Off-Leash Dog Areas (OLDA) in the Forest Preserves? OLDA Caretakers are the connectors between the dog community and the Forest Preserves. These volunteers act as ambassadors with a focus on community building and offer assistance to Forest Preserve staff on Off-Leash Dog Area volunteer recruitment, orientation, training, supplies and more.
Dates: 1 Feb 2022 - 1 Feb 2026
Contact person: Samson Awoyami samson.awoyemi@cookcountyil.gov (708) 771-1057
Secondary contact: Joanna Huyck joanna.huyck@cookcountyil.gov (773) 631-1790
Please see the attached document for a full position description.
Position Description
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate.Hike into 1,000 rolling acres of prairie, wetlands, savanna and shrubland, enjoying beautiful vistas and wildlife along the way. Join volunteers to restore habitat for many important threatened grassland birds. Activities include cutting invasive brush to protect bur oaks and native shrubs from being crowded out. Invasive species like white sweet clover and teasel are removed and native seed is collected to distribute within the grassland.
Description of location 167th Street entrance just west of La Grange Road, Orland Park, IL
Contact person: Site Steward Pat Hayes ptihys@yahoo.com (708) 220-9596
Secondary contact: Bill Fath wfath@yahoo.com
Website:https://www.orlandgrassland.org
Requirements Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate. 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. 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. Important: Dress for success - be sure to dress for the weather and hiking in natural terrain in the great outdoors. It can be WINDIER AND COLDER on the prairie, so wear coats, hats, jeans and sturdy shoes. See "Dress for Success" on our website at www.orlandgrassland.org 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.
Paddock Woods has a lowland flatwoods that the Palos Restoration Project is working to restore. Volunteer activities center on the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and barberry. Collection and distribution of seeds may also be done in season. Main tools used are loppers and hand saws. Weather permitting, we will 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.
Description of location Meet at Paddock Woods parking lot, on the west side of 86th Avenue between Route 83 and 119th Street.
Contact person: Stewardship Workday Leader Jan Pietrzak restorepalos@gmail.com
Paw Paw Woods is one of the oldest dedicated Nature Preserves in Illinois. It contains bluff and floodplain forest communities. The forest supports many interesting and unusual plants: paw paw, shingle oak, chinquapin oak, spicebush, and an abundance of woodland wildflowers. Volunteer activities center on the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and barberry. Collection and distribution of seeds may also be done in season.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.
Description of location Meet at the front of the Bullfrog Woods parking lot, on the west side of Wolf Road just north of 95th Street.
Contact person: Joe Neumann restorepalos@gmail.com (773) 434-1415
Take a few steps into Pioneer Woods on one of the numerous trails and you're into the hilly terrain and woodlands typical of the Palos Preserves. Restoration activities focus on the removal of invasive plants species like honeysuckle and barberry. Collection and distribution of seeds may also be done in season. 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.
Description of location Meet at Pioneer Woods parking lot, on the north side of 107th Street about a half-mile west of La Grange Road (Route 45). We normally park at the far end of the parking lot, up the hill and around several curves.
ARequirements 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.
Sagawau Environmental Learning Center is home to some of the most unique geological features and habitats in the forest preserves. Enjoy the fresh air and put your muscles to work as you help restore the ecosystems in this biologically diverse site. Tools and safety equipment provided.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.
Contact person: Lorrie Ward Sagawauenvironmental.learningcenter@cookcountyil.gov (630) 257-2045
Secondary contact: Michael Konrath michael.konrath@cookcountyil.gov
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 Staff and volunteer leaders will implement protocols to ensure physical distancing, glove and mask usage, and tool sanitizing. Wear all essential personal protection equipment (PPE) including a face mask. Always keep a minimum distance of six feet from other volunteers. *Participants should be able to be outdoors for 2-3 hours and walk on uneven terrain *All tools and onsite training will be provided *Please arrive a few minutes before the workday begins *Dress to be outdoors and to get dirty. Layers, long pants and long socks are recommended *Wear non-synthetic clothes, like cotton or wool. Weather permitting, there will be a brush pile fire and hot embers can make holes in clothes *Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required *Remember your sun protection, a hat or bandana and sunglasses are recommended *Bring a water bottle and a snack to have during break time Groups of 10 or more, please contact us first.
This is for any individual Forest Preserves volunteer, new or experienced, to record their hours for picking up litter at any site and at anytime the Forest Preserves are open. The "Buddy System" is encouraged...bring along a friend/family member. Link to Litter Hotspots List
Contact person: Linda Loranger linda.loranger@cookcountyil.gov (773) 631-1790
Secondary contact: Airis Cervantes airis.cervantes@cookcountyil.gov
*The "Buddy System" is encouraged...bring along a friend/family. * Review the Forest Preserve's COVID-19 page each day before volunteering for closure information, important updates, safety precautions, and bathrooms. Stay 6 ft away from others. * FOR VOLUNTEER SAFETY: Park only in Forest Preserves lots; walk only on Forest Preserves property; avoid moving traffic; Stay at least 20 feet away from roadsides. * If you encounter non-emergency issues at a site call the Forest Preserve police at 708.771.1001 or in case of emergency, 911. Do not confront visitors. * Collection of plants and animals is strictly prohibited. This includes harvesting firewood; collecting mushrooms, wildflowers or other wild plants and their seeds; and otherwise removing or damaging any plants or trees. * Bring your own snack and water bottle. * Place trash in Forest Preserves trash bins in parking lots. If blue recycling bin present, use it. If bin is overflowing, please find another trash can to dispose of litter. * Please bring your own supplies; gloves, bags, and pick-up tools, if you have them. Get creative! Old salad or barbecue tongs work! * Please record your volunteer hours online in your profile after each volunteer visit.
Spears Woods is 444 acres of wide woods, cozy wetlands, and spacious prairie knolls. Named after the early settler John Spear, who owned the property, the site was once a dairy farm. Restoration activities focus on the removal of invasive plants like honeysuckle and barberry. Main tools used are loppers and hand saws. Weather permitting, we will 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.
Description of location Meet at Country Lane Woods parking lot, on the south side of 95th Strret one-half mile west of La Grange Road (Route 45). We will park at the front of the parking lot.
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 Staff and volunteer leaders will implement protocols to ensure physical distancing, glove and mask usage, and tool sanitizing. Wear all essential personal protection equipment (PPE) including a face mask. Always keep a minimum distance of six feet from other volunteers. Plan accordingly, as many public restrooms are closed. Bring your own gloves, snack, water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer. Wear long sleeves, long slacks or jeans, and sturdy shoes. Natural fiber clothing (wool or cotton) works best, especially when we're burning brush piles. Multiple layers on cool days, allow you to shed a layer as the day warms. We provide gloves and the necessary tools, as well as snacks.
Swallow Cliff is a landscape of hills, ravines, lakes, and marshes created by the retreat of the last glaciers to cover the area. Volunteers strive to restore the natural biodiversity that existed prior to settlement and the proliferation of non-native plants. Restoration activities include the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and buckthorn, and the collection and distribution of seeds of desirable native 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.
Description of location Park at Swallow Cliff Woods South lot, on the west side of LaGrange Road opposite 119th Street in Palos Park.
Contact person: Jan Pietrzak janaugust@sbcglobal.net
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 Staff and volunteer leaders will implement protocols to ensure physical distancing, glove and mask usage, and tool sanitizing. Wear all essential personal protection equipment (PPE) including a face mask. Always keep a minimum distance of six feet from other volunteers. Plan accordingly, as many public restrooms are closed. Bring your own gloves, snack, water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer. * Wear long sleeves, long slacks or jeans, and sturdy shoes. * Natural fiber clothing (wool or cotton) works best, especially when burning brush piles. * Multiple layers on cool days allow you to shed a layer as the day warms. * We provide gloves and the necessary tools, as well as snacks.
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate.Join us every Friday or the third Saturday of each month to help restore our rare dolomite prairie and oak/hickory woodlands. We cut brush, pull weeds and collect seed, depending on the season. All levels of experience are welcome.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.
Description of location We meet at the north end of the parking area
Contact person: Steward George Birmingham t.stone.restoration@gmail.com
Secondary contact: Co-steward Ann Petric annpetric2240@comcast.net
This is the Notification List for the Trail Watch - New Volunteer Training. You can also see if there are any currently scheduled classes.Be a part of the Trail Watch Volunteer Program. Attendance at a Trail Watch Volunteer New Volunteer Training session is required to be a Trail Watch Volunteer. Learn about the program, meet key people and socialize with fellow volunteers.
Contact person: Volunteer Program Coordinator Joanna Huyck joanna.huyck@cookcountyil.gov (773) 631-1790 x22
Website:http://fpdcc.com/training
Training sessions are offered in January, April, July and October. Due to the pandemic, the July training is being rescheduled for a later date. Become additional eyes and ears of our Law Enforcement Department. Be a visible presence to help make our Preserves welcoming and inviting to all visitors, as you enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. A background check is required. See the attached document for a full Trail Watch Volunteer position description.
Restoration activities focus on the removal of invasive plants like honeysuckle and barberry. Main tools used are loppers and hand saws. Weather permitting, we will build and burn brush piles.Join the stewardship volunteers from Palos Restoration Project in stewarding Willow Springs Woods. You can also follow them on Facebook!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.
Description of location Meet at the Will ow Springs Woods parking lot, on the east side of 104th St/Flavin Road/Willow Springs Road 0.9 miles north of 95th Street. We usually meet at the southeast end of the lot near the shelter.
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 Staff and volunteer leaders will implement protocols to ensure physical distancing, glove and mask usage, and tool sanitizing. Wear all essential personal protection equipment (PPE) including a face mask. Always keep a minimum distance of six feet from other volunteers. Plan accordingly, as many public restrooms are closed. Bring your own gloves, snack, water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer. Wear long sleeves, long slacks or jeans, and sturdy shoes. Natural fiber clothing (wool or cotton) works best, especially when we're burning brush piles. Multiple layers on cool days allow you to shed a layer as the day warms. We provide gloves and the necessary tools, as well as snacks.
