Links to Articles & Resources
Friends of the Green Bay Trail
Article: Alien Invasion
Not little green men, but little green plants from across the seas. Link to article: Alien Invasion - (gbtrail.org)
Link to website: Friends of the Green Bay Trail
Environmental Defenders of McHenry Co.
Join & Volunteer
The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County's moto is Preserve Protect Educate. They offer a wide array of Environmental programs, outreach and activities. A wonderful organization based in Woodstock, IL. Please get involved! (Photo from Make a Difference Day 2021 - clearing invasive Honeysuckle and Buckthorn at the Defenders' Kishwaukee Headwaters Property on Dean St.)
Contact us
Phone: 815-338-0393
Email: EnviroDefMC@gmail.com
110 S. Johnson Street, Suite 106
Woodstock, Illinois 60098
Office Hours
Monday through Friday, 10 am - 4:30 pm
McHenry County Conservation District
Join and Volunteer
Who We Are
McHenry County Conservation District owns or manages 25,623 acres of open space provides wildlife habitat preservation, educational opportunities and recreational amenities for the citizens of McHenry County to appreciate and enjoy. Thirty-five sites are open to the public featuring 106 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of biking trails, 25 fishing areas, 6 campgrounds, 6 canoe launches, 36 miles of horse trails, and 18 sites with picnic areas & shelters, and a multitude of opportunities for wildlife viewing. The District also boasts 17 dedicated State Nature Preserves within its sites.
Mission Statement
McHenry County Conservation District exists to preserve, restore and manage natural areas and open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the benefits to present and future generations.
Vision
To fulfill our promise that McHenry County’s public lands, water, wildlife and way of life will thrive in a rapidly changing world. Where people of all ages, cultures and abilities are engaged and empowered to learn about and contribute to conservation in diverse and impactful ways. Where wild and scenic places support thriving native plants and wildlife populations and public lands support diverse outdoor recreation, educational and immersive experiences.
Volunteer
Give back, get outdoors, preserve nature, get active, raise awareness, build community, pay it forward, set an example, meet new people, learn new skills, plant a seed of knowledge, foster a sense of place, build confidence, enrich your life, contribute and have fun! The District’s volunteers engage in a wide range of activities at conservation areas throughout McHenry County. They restore habitat, preserve ecological diversity, educate people about nature, promote public safety and keep local history alive.
No prior experience is needed for most positions, but a willingness to learn is essential. The minimum age to volunteer independently is 18, but opportunities exist for students age 14 and up; as well as workday opportunities for ages 6-13 with parent supervision. As an added bonus, registered District Volunteers also receive a variety of perks including early registration access to trainings; free educational workshops; discount on Weekend of Restoration; witness and tour a prescribed burn; and more!
Questions? Contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Bob Menard, at (815) 338-6223, ext. 1201 or Volunteers@MCCDistrict.org. Link to MCCD website: https://www.mccdistrict.org/
