Wild Things 2019

Understanding Ecological Corridors Along the Chicago River System
Andrew Donakowski, Friends of the Chicago River
Protecting habitat is critically important, especially in our region with fragmented habitat areas. Friends of the Chicago River has created an interactive land assessment tool that provides a lens for understanding the river system as a connected ecological corridor. This tool will advance a vision of the riverfront that protects wildlife and connects people with the river’s natural wonder.

Lessons Learned in Grassland and Wetland Restoration with a Bird Habitat Focus
Heidi Natura, Living Habitats; Judy Pollock, Living Habitats; Linda Masters, Openlands
The site now known as Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve in the Forest Preserves of Cook County is a large partnership project which has realized in excess of 200 acres of wetland mitigation and well over 600 acres of contiguous grassland rich in native plant species and nesting birds such as bobolinks, northern harriers and king rails. This presentation will cover methods and lessons learned.