Will County, IL – This spring, the Forest Preserve District of Will County introduces a new series of guided hikes titled “Where the Wildflowers Are,” aimed at exploring the rich diversity of wildflowers across various preserve locations. In a novel approach, these hikes are organized as a series, allowing participants to witness the evolving floral landscapes and understand the ecological stories they tell.
According to Heather Van Zyl, an interpretive naturalist at the Forest Preserve’s Plum Creek Nature Center, this initiative is designed for better accessibility and educational value. “Grouping similar programs under a unified name simplifies participation across the county,” Van Zyl explained. The decision to hold multiple hikes at select locations enables attendees to observe the progression of blooms and ecological changes over time, offering a comprehensive experience of each preserve’s unique floral offerings.
Scheduled ninety-minute hikes include sessions at Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve in Monee Township, Hammel Woods in Shorewood, McKinley Woods – Frederick’s Grove in Channahon, and the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, also in Channahon. These events are slated for various dates from late March through early June.
Participants must register online for the hikes, a requirement that underscores the Forest Preserve District’s commitment to organized and informative outdoor activities. Van Zyl highlights the significance of wildflowers not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ecological roles and historical uses in food, medicine, and ritual practices. The series promises more than just plant identification, aiming to delve into the deeper connections between these blooms and their habitats.
For more details and registration, visitors are encouraged to check the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org, ensuring a spot in this immersive exploration of nature’s springtime canvas.
