Nature Programs for Adults

John J. Hoscheit, President
Monica A. Meyers, Executive Director

For Information:
630-232-5980 or forestpreserve@kaneforest.com
For Reservations:
630-232-1242 ( Mon-Fri / 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM )

PRESERVES OPEN 365 DAYS / Sunrise - Sunset

Registration

Children

Family

Adults/Learn from the Experts

Nature Programs for Adults

Senior Stroll

Seniors are invited on a pleasant stroll in our natural areas. Each month, we visit a different forest preserve to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area. Social time and refreshments follow the walk. No registration required.

Thursday, Feb. 4; 10 a.m. - noon
Brewster Creek Forest Preserve, St. Charles

Thursday, March 4; 10 a.m. - noon
Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve, Elburn

Thursday, April 1; 10 a.m. - noon
Fitchie Creek Forest Preserve
39W933 Russell Rd., Elgin

Thursday, May 6; 10 a.m. - noon
Oakhurst Forest Preserve
1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora

Learn from the Experts
The following classes are taught by experts in the field and offer in-depth information and learning opportunities about our local ecology. This award-winning program series is cosponsored by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the St. Charles Park District, the Geneva Park District, and the Fox Valley Park District. These programs are for ages 16 and up. Registration is required. Checks for these sessions should be made out to the Geneva Park District. Call (847) 741-8350 or e-mail program@kaneforest.com to register.

Aquatic Ecology

Join us as we take a closer look at the macro-invertebrates that live in our water. Mark Hauser of Friends of the Chicago River will lead this class. We’ll “dive” in and learn more about what these creatures tell us about water quality. We’ll also look at water chemistry to see how dissolved oxygen, pH, nitrate, and phosphate can affect all who use the creek. Please bring an extra pair of shoes and socks and a towel. Hip waders will be provided.

Saturday, May 15; 9-11 a.m.
(Rain date: Saturday, May 29; 9-11 a.m.)
Blackberry Farm
100 Barnes Rd., Aurora
Fee: $10

Fossils of Northern Illinois

Take a trip back in time — 450 million years ago, to start — for a glance at what northern Illinois was like way back then. Learn about our area’s fossils and the geology related to them with expert Dave Carlson. In addition to slides, he will bring specimens from five sites representing the Ordovician, Silurian and Carboniferous periods.

Saturday, March 27, 9-11 a.m.
Pottawatomie Community Center
8 North Ave., St. Charles
Fee: $10

It’s Easy to Be Green!

Learn simple changes you can make in your daily life to “live green.” We’ll talk about practical ways to leave a gentle footprint on the earth. Energy conservation, local food, native landscaping and eco-friendly products will be some of the topics discussed. Many of these ideas will not only help the environment, but they will help you save money, as well!

Saturday, March 20; 10-11:30 a.m.
Brewster Creek Forest Preserve
6N921 Rte. 25, St. Charles
Fee: $10

Map and Compass Skills 1

GPS is the latest in navigational technology, but what happens when the batteries die or the signal fades? Learning how to navigate a natural or wilderness area using a compass and topographic map ensures you’ll be able to find your way. During this interactive class led by naturalist Lauren Kulinski, get plenty of hands-on time using these important tools; you’ll also acquire some handy survival skills.

Saturday May 22; 9 a.m. – noon
West Side Park (formerly Campton Hills Park)
Campton Hills Road & Peck Road, St. Charles
Fee: $10

Map and Compass Skills 2

Take your map and compass abilities to the next level! Travel the untamed wilds of Camp Tomo-Chi-Chi Knolls, where a rolling topography adds to the orienteering challenge. Wear long pants, sturdy footwear and dress for the weather! Prerequisite: Map & Compass Skills Part 1.

Sunday, May 23; 1-4 p.m.
Camp Tomo-Chi-Chi Knolls
40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts
Fee: $10