Want to learn the history and process of maple tree tapping and syrup production but can't join one of our maple sugaring events in person? Jump into this virtual tour to explore the fascinating world of maple syrup.
Listen to the sounds of spring and discover who is behind the chorus that welcomes the new season.
Thursday, April 15
Spring Frog Serenade Video
City Nature Challenge (Zoom Webinar)
The City Nature Challenge is a citizen science data collecting bio-blitz! It is an 8-day challenge for residents to document nature in their city to understand urban biodiversity. We are expanding to include the whole county. Join us the day before the event starts for an information webinar on how the challenge works and how to use the iNaturalist app to report your data.
Thursday, April 29; 7-8 p.m.
Springtime Wildflower Identification and Use (VIDEO)
Have you ever wondered what people did before the existence of grocery markets, hardware stores, restaurants and local pharmacies? In this program, we'll reveal many traditional uses of our local and native wildflowers and share with you tips on identifying specific species.
Thursday, May 13
Springtime Wildflower Identification and Use Video
Treasure Hunt Adventure (Virtual)
Hit the trails with your friends and family and experience our Kane County forest preserves like never before! This interactive, virtual treasure hunt will feature fun facts, hidden clues, and completion prizes. A guided video will lead you to several locations within LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, where you will learn about local ecology and then find secret markers to track your progress. When finished, be sure to stop by Creek Bend Nature Center to claim your reward!
Register to receive your first clue on Thursday, May 27
Fee: $5/group
Wonderful Wildflowers (VIDEO)
Join us as we highlight the beautiful flowers that adorn the woodlands of Kane County. Together, let's explore the identifying features and interesting folklore that surround these colorful native species.
Thursday, June 10
Wonderful Wildflowers Video
Durant House Museum Virtual Visit (VIDEO)
Take a trip back in time and learn all about the wonders of pioneer life. This virtual tour will showcase the historic Durant House, a prairie farmhouse constructed in 1843.
Thursday, June 24
Durant House Museum Virtual Visit Video
Build a Butterfly Feeder (VIDEO)
Tune in to see how you can build your very own butterfly feeder using common household items or with a simple-to-use kit available for purchase at Creek Bend Nature Center. Hang your completed project up at home to attract beautiful butterflies to your yard! (Optional kit costs $5).
Thursday, July 8
Build a Butterfly Feeder Video
Composting with Worms (VIDEO)
Turn your kitchen scraps into garden gold! Come learn about the benefits of composting at home with worms. During this program, we'll take an in-depth look at the science behind vermicomposting and explore the role of red wriggler worms in home composting systems. You'll leave this class with all the knowledge necessary to build your own home vermicomposting bin.
Thursday, July 22
Composting with Worms Video
Guess the Preserve (VIDEO)
With over 100 preserves encompassing more than 20,000 acres, there's plenty to see and do in our Kane County forest preserves! Join a naturalist as we explore the beauty and biodiversity of some of our favorite preserves during each episode of this virtual program series.
Thursday, Aug. 26
Guess the Preserve Video
Experience nature, right from the comfort of your own home, with our virtual program offerings. Visit this page for our updated content and follow us on social media @forestpreserve for the latest and greatest happenings! Join us and enjoy "Nature, Virtually Everywhere!"