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Baker's Lake, home to one of the most significant heron rookeries in the Midwest, is a birdwatcher's dream. Join our volunteer group and help restore bird habitat and improve biodiversity. Workday tasks include removing invasive vegetation, harvesting native seed, and other restoration activities.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 https://www.google.com/maps/dir//42.1400469,-88.1262353/@42.1401557,-88.1253295,16.75z
Contact person
Contact person: Mark Knight markthebuilder@sbcglobal.net (847) 845-0396
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
What to wear/bring
Bluff Spring Fen is a 100-acre Illinois Nature Preserve. The Fen is a mosaic of upland, wetland, and wooded remnant plant communities and is home to over a dozen threatened and endangered species. Over the past 30 years, dedicated volunteers have transformed this once desolate dumping ground into a world-renowed natural area. The Friends of Bluff Spring Fen continue to restore diversity to the site at twice monthly workdays.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.
Unlimited Positions available!
Frequency:
Description of location
Contact person: Doug Taron dtaron@gmail.com (847) 695-4568
Website:https://friendsofbluffspringfen.com/home/
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.
Crabtree Nature Center is home to more than a thousand acres of rolling, glacier-formed landscape in northwest Cook County, and features a variety of habitat including woodland, wetland and prairie. Put on some gloves and join us to remove invasive species that threaten the health of these ecosystems. Tools and eye protection provided. Long sleeves and sturdy shoes recommended. Learn about your local environment from dedicated staff while helping the Preserves.
Contact person: Crabtree Nature Center Staff Meredith.Rice@cookcountyil.gov (847) 381-6592
Website:http://fpdcc.com/nature-centers/crabtree-nature-center/
- Volunteers must dress to be outdoors and wear long pants, sturdy shoes, and gloves -Natural fiber clothing (wool or cotton) works best, multiple layers on cool days allow you to shed a layer as the day warms. - We provide tools and eye protection. -Children ages 8+ welcome with an adult
Get to know Deer Grove while restoring the land. Meet volunteers who enjoy the outdoors and want to be hands-on in helping to protect important ecosystems. Activities range from the challenging to the easy! Seed collecting and planting, brush cutting, controlled burns, rare species monitoring, guiding tours, planning programs and many other opportunities. No experience needed, we will train for free!
Visit our website HERE. Like the Deer Grove Natural Areas Volunteers 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 Deer Grove Forest Preserve (West & East)
Contact person: Deer Grove Natural Areas Volunteers deergrovenav@gmail.com
Website:https://deergrovenav.org/
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
The Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards have transformed agricultural fields and farm homesteads into healthy native habitats- tallgrass prairie, oak woodland, savanna and wetland. Their efforts have seen native plants, birds and animals thrive. They also protect a jewel on the site: the Shoe Factory Nature Preserve, a remnant gravel hill prairie formed thousands of years ago by glacial deposits. Outdoor workdays are held every weekend all year. Volunteers receive training and tools for all activities and are supervised by knowledgeable personnel. You just need a willingness to get involved and learn!Students age 18 and older are welcome. Volunteers under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian during the workday. Volunteers under age 18 must have their volunteer waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Description of location On Route 59, one half mile north of Golf Rd. Entrance is on the left with the forest preserve sign reading Carl Hansen Woods
Contact person: Co-Steward Jan Ahrensfeld jahrensfeld@sbcglobal.net
Website:https://www.poplarcreekprairiestewards.org
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. Groups must coordinate the date of their visit with the contact person. 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. Dressing the right way for workdays will make your experience a lot more enjoyable. Keep in mind that during the fall, winter, and early spring, it can be colder on the prairie than it is at home. Usually, though, temperatures warm as the morning progresses, dress in layers that you can remove or add as needed. Minimum clothing for warm weather includes: long pants, socks, sturdy shoes, long sleeves, sunglasses, and a sun hat.We also recommend that you use an appropriate sunscreen, and if you have preferences for insect repellent, that you bring your choice. Comfortable as they are, shorts, skirts, capri pants, tank tops, and sandals are never a good idea on the prairie or in the woodland, even in warm weather. Walking in rough terrain among tall plants poses hazards that will make these sorts of clothes very uncomfortable. Minimum clothing for cold weather includes: long pants, long sleeves, gloves, warm socks, boots, warm coat, and hat or hood. 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.
We are restoring prairies and groves of oak-hickory woodlands at this site. It is home to numerous rare grassland birds, including Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, Henslow's Sparrows, Grasshopper Sparrows. We are removing invasive plants and restoring the native vegetative biodiversity while increasing the habitats for birds. No experience is necessary: just an interest in working with others to protect and restore our natural areas. Activities may include seed collection, planting, cutting brush, or pulling invasive species, depending on the season.The Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards have transformed agricultural fields and farm homesteads into healthy native habitats- tallgrass prairie, oak woodland, savanna and wetland. Their efforts have seen native plants, birds and animals thrive. They also protect a jewel on the site: the Shoe Factory Nature Preserve, a remnant gravel hill prairie formed thousands of years ago by glacial deposits. Outdoor workdays are held every weekend all year. Volunteers receive training and tools for all activities and are supervised by knowledgeable personnel. You just need a willingness to get involved and learn!Students age 18 and older are welcome. Volunteers under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian during the workday, and who will sign for the minor on the Volunteer Day Waiver sign-in sheet at the beginning of the workday.
Description of location Parking lot on north side of Schaumburg Road, 1/3 mile west of Rt. 59. The sign will read equestrian entrance
Contact person: Steward Jenny Flexman flexfolks@comcast.net
Secondary contact: Steward Jan Ahrensfeld jahrensfeld@sbcglobal.net
No experience is necessary. We remove invasive species, collect native seed, and spread seed, among other activities. We are of all ages, and we share a common interest in restoring and protecting our local natural areas. Dressing the right way for workdays will make your experience a lot more enjoyable. Sturdy footwear is essential, preferably hiking boots. Minimum clothing for COLD weather includes: long pants, long sleeves, gloves, warm socks, boots, warm coat, and hat or hood. Dress in layers and wear old clothing made of natural fibers. Minimum clothing for WARM weather includes: long pants, socks, sturdy shoes, long sleeves, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Use an appropriate sunscreen, and insect repellent. Shorts, skirts, capri pants, tank tops, and sandals are never a good idea on the prairie or in the woodland, even in warm weather. Bring water. We provide tools, work gloves, and snacks. 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.
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.
The Spring Creek Forest Preserve is one of only a few Cook County preserves large enough to sustain populations of rare animals, grassland birds and a rich variety of habitats. The site was deemed by Audubon-Chicago to be a globally-significant Important Bird Area.
Spring Creek is a tranquil respite from the hustle of everyday, modern life where we seek to restore the balance of nature in the preserves and in our lives.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 are out working every weekend. Our work day, time and site location change weekly. Please check the calendar or email springcreekstewards@gmail.comPenny Rd Pond parking lot - 42.0983383,-88.2072172Healy Savanna berm - 42° 5'41.08"n, 88°13'36.05"wHeadwaters - 160 42° 4'51.96"n, 88°13'3.29"wHeadwaters parking lot - 42.080103, -88.209585CFC farm house - 42.192866, -88.172156
Contact person: Randy Holtz springcreekstewards@gmail.com
Website:https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=springcreekstewards%40gmail.com&ctz=America/Chicago
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. Penny Rd Pond parking lot 42.0983383,-88.2072172 Healy Savanna berm 42° 5'41.08"n, 88°13'36.05"w Headwaters 160 42° 4'51.96"n, 88°13'3.29"w Headwaters parking lot, 42.080103, -88.209585 CFC farm house, 42.192866, -88.172156
Management Schedule
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.
Position Description
