Happy Hikers Under 14 Summer Season

Wednesday, May 11–Saturday, August 13 Fee: R/NR $20.00 Code: 5230

Hiking keeps kids active, happy, and healthy. Need a little extra help motivating your kids to move away from the computer screen and onto the trails? Register for the Happy Hikers incentive program. For just $20 your child receives a welcome packet in which they can track their miles for the summer. At regular mile markers, they receive prizes for their achievements as well as their name on the Happy Hiker map at the Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park and online. Miles can be counted at Conservation District programs like “Nature Hikes for Kids” (page 23), summer day camps (page 20), or on their own with friends and family. Whether they aim for 10 miles or 100, getting them out on the trails means everyone wins. We’ll celebrate in August with a members only ice cream party too!

NOTE: Last day to register is August 1 and last day to report your miles is August 13.

Century Hikers Club Ages 14+

The Century Hikers Club is an incentive program for adults (ages 14 and up) looking to get outdoors and enjoy the natural areas of McHenry County Conservation District. Upon enrollment you will receive a log in which to track your miles hiked at Conservation District areas. As you reach different milestones you will receive a variety of rewards!

Perks of becoming a Century Hikers Club Member:• Members can participate in staff-guided programs exclusively

for the Century Hikers Club. Programs are offered four times per year and members should R.S.V.P. to attend.

• Quarterly newsletter of news and upcoming events.

• Interested in hiking with a group? “The Trail Pack” is a group of Century Hikers Club members interested in hiking with other people.

Become a Member Today!Enrollment is easy! Enroll online at bit.ly/RegActive, enter code 5122. If you don’t have an account you’ll need to create one prior to enrolling. Want to pay with cash or check? Email the club coordinator at education@MCCDistrict.org or call (815) 479-5779 to request an enrollment form.

Donate a native tree or shrub in celebration, in memory, or in love of the woodlands. Tree and shrub plantings will restore historically wooded sites and reconnect existing stands to create contiguous oak savannas and woodlands. The long term plan includes restoring and reconnecting hundreds of acres of oak savannas and woodlands on McHenry County Conservation District sites!

With your help, the Conservation District will purchase native trees and shrubs and plant them each fall on District sites that were historically wooded. Through this program, we plan to restore and recreate the “big woods” of McHenry County.

Just over one-third of the County’s land mass or approximately 143,000 acres was covered by some type of oak ecosystem in 1837. Today, less than 18,000 acres remain—an oak loss of over 87%, according to The Oaks of McHenry County.

Help the Conservation District fulfill its pledge to preserve and restore our treasured woodlands for the enjoyment of future generations. Donations from conservation-minded individuals, youth clubs, organizations, small businesses, and corporations can make this vision a reality.

Please note: The location where trees and shrubs will be planted cannot be specified. Each year this will depend on areas of greatest need across the county.

Your donations of $50 will purchase and plant 2 native shrubs and/or trees. Checks payable to: McHenry County Conservation District. Donation

$50 $100 $150 $_____Name: _____________________________________ __________________________________________Name for acknowledgement in annual report if different.

Address: ___________________________________City/State/Zip: _______________________________Zip: _______________________________________Email for confirmation:

Donate online at: MCCDistrict.org – “Donate” button or mail to: McHenry County Conservation District, Big Woods, 18410 US Highway 14, Woodstock, IL 60098

BIG WOODS A LIVING GIFT FOR TOMORROW’S WOODLANDS

Donate a Tree!

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Special Events

Ice Cream Social of 1858Sunday, June 5, 12:00–4:00 p.m.Powers-Walker House, Glacial Park

No registration required. Drop in any time during the open hours.

Take a break from your hectic modern life and enjoy the simple pleasures of an old-fashioned ice cream social. Enjoy fresh-scooped ice cream, play old-time games, and chat with your neighbors while visiting the historic Powers-Walker house in the summertime. Various historical characters will stop by to tell you of their lives, including a cavalryman and his horse heading off to defend the frontier. Drop in for a few minutes or stay for the whole afternoon of fun.

Hooked

n

Fishing!

Snapshots from last year’s event!

SATURDAY, JUNE 189 a.m. – NoonRush Creek

20501 McGuire Rd., HarvardCODE: 5233

SUNDAY, JUNE 199 a.m. – Noon

The Hollows – Lake Atwood3804 U.S. Highway 14, Cary

CO DE: 5233

Co-sponsored by the Crystal Lake Anglers

Hooked

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Fishing!

Bring the whole family for demonstrations, prizes and more! No license needed, as the event is held during Illinois Free Fishing Days.

Bring your own gear or borrow ours! Children get first preference on poles. First come, first served. Adult supervision of children is required.

Registration required, (815) 479-5779 or online at MCCDistrict.org. FREE

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Special Events

Sunday, June 5

DROPSEED Althoff IndustriesCulvers of McHenryBaxter & WoodmanBl aine’s Farm and Fleet – WoodstockBull Valley Riding Club Inc.

SHOOTING STARAn cel, Glink, Diamond, Bush,

Dicianni & Krafthefer, P.C.Napoli’s of WoodstockNorthwest HeraldTip-A-Canoe

First National Bank of McHenryMcHenry County Horse ClubMcHenry County EquestrianSpring Grove Horse Show Inc.The Riding Club of Barrington Hills

BLUEBIRDA. A. Anderson, Inc. Bjorkman’s Ace Hardware, Inc.Centegra Health System Effluent Technology Inc.Dave's Bait, Tackle & Taxidermy

Whether by bike, boat or horse, enjoy some fresh air and exercise, meet some new friends and support McHenry County Conservation District.

The event includes our famous pasta feast, served 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. accompanied by live entertainment from musical talents “Dan & Danielle.”

Registration: Preregister by May 18 and receive a free T-shirt: $25 Individual non-members; $15 for MCCF members

$50 Family non-members; $40 for MCCF members; (add $6 per participant if more than four in family)

NOTE: Registrations AFTER May 18 and the day of the event are welcomed but will NOT include a free T-shirt.

Day of Event: T-shirts $10 extra, if still available

Not a member? Join and receive $10 off your registration fee.

Check In:Paddlers: 7:30–9:00 a.m. Keystone Road LandingCanoe rentals are available for $45 for preregistered participants or bring your own canoe or kayak; shuttle service and support will be provided.

Pedalers: 9:30–10:30 a.m. Harts Rd. Parking Lot

Saddlers: 9:00–10:00 a.m. east side of Keystone RoadEvent parking is north of regular trailer lot. Look for signs to direct you. Bring your own horse(s).

(815) 759-9390www.mchenryconservation.org

Glacial Park, Ringwood12K, 20K, 30K Bicycle Ride,

2 hour Paddle (6 miles down Nippersink Creek)

or 5.5 mi Trail Ride

Pedal - Paddle - Saddlethrough the Prairie

McHenry County Conservation Foundation’s

20 16

Jewel-Osco of McHenryTeam REIL Inc.The Nippersink Watershed Association

MCCF thanks the 2016 Sponsors for their commitment to conservation:

Funds will help Restore Gravel Hill Prairie Species in Glacial Park, Build a Blanding's Turtle Enclosure for the IL endangered species; and construct an aviary for the District's short-eared owl, an integral part of wildlife education programs.

Will Kruger—Singer/Songwriter TributeJoin Will Kruger and special guest Mark Fowler performing the music of classic Singer/Songwriter’s Paul Simon, Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor and John Denver. Will’s been pick’n and singing since the age of 14 and brings a unique sense of clarity and a strong emphasis to the lyrical content of the selection of songs. His musical roots go back to the folk era where influence from the likes of Peter Paul & Mary, Simon & Garfunkel, and John Denver have shaped his musical style. Will has spent the past 30 years as a professional entertainer playing clubs, festivals, and auditoriums throughout the Midwest.

The Mississippi StranglersTruly an original “American band,” The Mississippi Stranglers hit the main vein of American Music. From folk to progressive rock they cover a spectrum that spans from front porch hoe-downs to traditional garage rock offering something for everyone. Kurt Richard Carlson (Guitars/Vocals) Neal Boomer Ernst (Guitars/Vocals) Garrett Pederson (Guitar/Vocals) David Young (Bass/Mandolin/Keys) Matt Ford (Drums)

The Iris Isle String EnsembleAdd a touch of class to your evening with the music that only a professional string ensemble can provide. Composed of professional Chicagoland musicians, The Iris Isle String Ensemble has extensive experience playing hundreds of events throughout the Midwest including weddings, corporate events, and community programs. The violinists are both orchestra directors in District 200, the violist is a private instructor in Batavia, the Cellist is an orchestra director in U-46, the first violinist and violist graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy, and the second violinist performs with the Elgin Symphony.

C FlattCome out and enjoy the classic guitar sounds of C Flatt, an acoustic trio. The acoustic guitar offers an instrument that beautifully features the singer and the soulful lyrics. C Flatt will entertain will a number of recognizably ditties, as they play through a combination of classic, contemporary and standard blues.

FIRST FRIDAYS CONCERTS7:00–8:30 p.m. Site closes at 9 p.m.

Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio, Glacial Park Join us on the first Friday of each month this summer for an evening of music and nature. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy the beautiful view from the Lost Valley Visitor Center patio and stay for a free concert from talented regional musicians.

Note: No glass containers. In the case of inclement weather, concerts will be moved indoors.

2016

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Special Events

SPECIAL DEMONSTRATIONS:5:00 p.m. Extrication–Wonder Lake Fire Protection Department5:20 p.m. Precision Riding Motorcycle Demo–

McHenry County Conservation District5:45 p.m. Police K9 Demo–McHenry County Sheriff's Office6:30 p.m. Precision Riding Motorcycle Demo–

McHenry County Conservation District6:50 p.m. Extrication–Wonder Lake Fire Protection Department

McHenry County Conservation District, McHenry County Sheriff’s Office and the Wonder Lake Fire Departments team up to present National Night Out (NNO) Against Crime to promote crime prevention and safety programs, while strengthening police-community partnerships and encouraging neighborhood camaraderie. The evening is action packed with food and fun for the entire family.

Stop by for complimentary food and beverages and enjoy the ongoing activities. Information booths include: Electronic Fingerprinting ID System for Children, Project S.W.E.E.P., Sheriff’s Office Explorer, Volunteer and other programs, as well as various police and fire equipment that will be on display. Check MCCDistrict.org for event updates.

Tuesday, August 2, 5:00–7:30 p.m.Harrison Benwell Conservation Area 7055 McCullom Lake Road, Wonder Lake

Living History Open Houses Sunday, July 17 & Sunday August 14, 12–4 p.m.Come visit this Greek Revival 1854 restored house and learn more about the families that once called it home. July’s open house will feature the Miller family who

inhabited the area during the World War I era, while August’s open house will feature the Schaeffer and Steinmetz families, who lived in the area during the World War II era. Volunteers in historical attire will be on hand to answer questions.

Enjoy the war-time memorabilia and listen to the stories of both the home-front and the soldiers’ perspective from each of these important conflicts that changed our world.

Interested in taking a tour of the Powers-Walker House?The Powers-Walker house will be open a variety of weekend afternoons. Look for the “open” sign and feel free to stop by for a free tour. You will learn about the architecture and furnishings of this restored Greek Revival home, as well as about the volunteer efforts to restore it

to its original condition. Experience the “feel” of an 1850’s early settlement house and enjoy some peaceful time looking out over the restored marsh and wetlands.

Feed your Appetite for History— check out the Ice Cream Social of 1858, pg. 15

Living History EventsPowers-Walker House, Glacial ParkNo registration required. Drop in during the open hours.

Special Events

18 Landscapes | Summer 2016

Monarch Family Fun FairSponsored by Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge and the US Fish & Wildlife Service

Sunday, August 28, 1–4 p.m.Crystal Lake Main Beach Pavilion, 300 Lake Shore Drive, Crystal Lake

Learn how you can help the monarch butterflies and their miraculous migration across the North American continent. Ongoing: activities, games, face painting, arts, nature trunks, info on planting butterfly gardens and numerous partner booths sharing the work to support Monarchs.

Visit us at the County Fair!

August 3–7Where we will be featuring

Monarch activities in 'Conservation World' tent

Open Mic NightFridays, 7–9 p.m.June 17 | July 15 | August 19Glacial Park, Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio, Ringwood

Join us on the 3rd Friday of each month for an open mic night on Glacial Park’s beautiful patio overlook. Come as a spectator or performer! Enjoy songs and sunsets in the outdoors. This event will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather. Note to performers: Nature-themed music is not required but definitely appreciated.

Late Night@ Prairieview Education Center Open HouseWednesday, August 10, 4:30–8:30 p.m.Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake

Have you wanted to make it out to the Prairieview Education Center in Silver Creek Conservation Area, but have found it difficult with your work hours? Now you can take advantage of the extended business hours during this open house. Enjoy an evening view of the summer prairie from the patio and exhibit room, free WiFi, and the Exploration Station—a children’s activity room. Take advantage of help from staff on the first day of registration for fall programs. Light refreshments provided.

Nature photographer Marty Hackl presents a selection of his works featuring birds of our region. These stunning photographs capture the beauty of birds, from the grace

of their flight to the brilliance of their plumage. Besides approaching photography as an art form, it has also become for him a tool to engage people, first to become familiar with the birds and other wildlife around them, then to feel a sense of stewardship and responsibility through understanding the importance of preserving habitats, and even in creating new ones in urban and suburban environments. After moving to McHenry County about ten years ago, Marty began photographing birds as a means of identifying the enormous numbers and variety of them he was seeing in his back yard. He quickly became an avid birder, and as his knowledge of birds grew, so did his skill at photographing them. What started as a hobby turned into a passion, and from a

passion into a mission to help others also learn about the abundance and beauty of wildlife that surrounds us. Marty Hackl is a professional musician by trade. He is also an architectural historian, building contractor and tradesman specializing in historic preservation. Marty volunteers with the Conservation District at the McConnell Farmstead and as a nature photographer.

Tap into Marty's expertise at: “Backyard Birding and Photography” Saturday, July 9, 2–3:30 p.m., pg. 24

Photography Exhibit

Birds of Northeastern IllinoisJune 4–July 31 Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park

Artist Reception: Sunday, June 12, 2–4 p.m.

Left: Dickcissel, Top: Red-headed Woodpecker.

19Landscapes | Summer 2016

Special Events