What is the Forest Preserve District doing?

As weather allows, the Forest Preserve District will remove invasive and nonnative brush in areas it doesn’t regularly mow to improve growing conditions for oaks, hickories, walnuts, and other native trees and shrubs. Crews will be operating landscape construction equipment and chipper trucks and burning brush piles. Doing this type of work in winter reduces disruptions to visitors and protects the roots of desirable plants as well as the soil. 

How will this affect the off-leash areas?

Crews will work during regularly scheduled off-leash maintenance hours but will need to additionally close each off-leash area for two consecutive days over several weeks.

Because of the unpredictable weather, we are not able to schedule these days in advance. Work may wrap up in February or go into March.

We will notify off-leash permit holders at least 48 hours before these closings via email and our new text alerts. (Text DOGS to 866-743-7332 to sign up.) Both areas will not be closed at the same time.

What’s being removed?

Crews will remove invasive trees and brush such as European buckthorn, Japanese honeysuckle and Bradford pear. They will also remove brush along the fences so it doesn’t damage them. This spring and summer, crews may also mow once or twice to prevent common ragweed and other plants from spreading.

What will the areas look like when crews are done?

Visitors will have improved views of wildflower prairies and the benefits of shady native trees, which combined will also support a wider range of wildlife.

What if I have more questions?

Please call Visitor Services at 630-933-7248.