Friends of IL Nature Preserves kicks-off volunteer stewardship season at Harlem Hills

The community is invited to participate in an eco-restoration kick-off event at Harlem Hills Nature Preserve on Sunday, Oct. 27, from 1 to 4 p.m.

This event marks the beginning of a series of regular restoration workdays dedicated to preserving the unique gravel prairie ecosystem of Harlem Hills.

Attendees can enjoy guided nature hikes, learn about the preserve’s rich biodiversity, and participate in community volunteer projects, such as seed collecting and invasive plant removal. In addition, there will be campfire cooking demonstrations and nature hikes.

“Eco-restoration work days allow the general public to take part in a community caring for our public lands. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, learn about nature, and give back to the land by stewarding a healthy ecosystem.

“Harlem Hills Nature Preserve is the largest gravel hill prairie left in the Midwest. Despite its protected status, the prairie still faces degradation by encroachment of invasive plants and recent illegal ATV use. The prairie needs friends to help now more than ever,” explains Jessie Crow Mermel, Field Representative with Friends of Illinois Nature Preserve, who organizes the workdays alongside community volunteers with support from the IDNR and Natural Land Institute.

Volunteers should wear sturdy shoes and work clothes. Tools, gloves, and snacks will be provided. Participants are encouraged to RSVP to Jessie at [email protected] to receive directions to the event site.

Harlem Hills Nature Preserve, Loves Park, IL (parking at Windsor Road gate)

Following this kick-off event, regular eco-restoration workdays will be held on the fourth Sunday of each month, with additional pop-up workdays.

To stay updated on future events and volunteer opportunities, contact [email protected]  to join the mailing list. Join us in preserving and celebrating the natural beauty of Harlem Hills.

About Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves

The Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves support biodiversity conservation in our Nature Preserves state-wide to ensure that these sites maintain their rare and unique plants, animals, and natural communities into the distant future.

To do this, we connect the caring public with treasured nature, help find new resources, and train and empower expert and dedicated volunteer stewards.  For more information, visit www.friendsilnature.org.