Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Forest preserves of Winnebago County

The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County is excited to announce a celebration of its 100th Anniversary, with a free event highlighting all the activities you can do in your preserves on Saturday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hononegah Forest Preserve. This event has engaging activities for all ages, including: guided walks, nature themed crafts, golf chipping green, roasting marshmallows for s’mores, native tree giveaway and even a photo station by the renovated Hononegah Arch.

Exhibit booths provide opportunities for guests to learn about native plants and wildlife from Forest Preserve biologists, make your own hiking stick with Severson Dells Nature Center, learn about bird banding with Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, interact with live birds from Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab & Education and explore the wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities with 815 Outside.

“For 100 years the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County has preserved land for wildlife and outdoor recreation for Winnebago County. We are thrilled to be hosting this 100th anniversary event to honor this milestone and celebrate with the community,” says Mike Holan, Executive Director of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County.

“We hope to show all of the outdoor recreation opportunities that the forest preserves provide and connect the public with activities they may have never experienced before.”

Throughout the event there will be raffle drawings for golf vouchers to one of the three golf courses, shelter house rentals, and camping passes. An event passport will guide guests through all of the activities. If you get your passport stamped at all the stations you can turn it in for a sweet treat!

Disco Chicken, The Olive Branch and Big Jon’s Dogs ‘n More food trucks will be there to help celebrate with their delicious menus.

The full list of exhibitors includes: Forest Preserves-Natural Resources, Community Science, Golf and Camping, Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, 815 Outside, Klehm Arboretum, Severson Dells Nature Center, and Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab and Education.

To learn more visit www.winnebagoforest.org/events

About Forest Preserves of Winnebago County

The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County has been proudly dedicated to conserving, protecting, and enhancing Winnebago County’s natural heritage for 100 years.