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Events:
August 29, 2025 | 8:30 p.m.
Moth Night
Experience the wonderful world of moths and nocturnal insects at Severson Dells Forest Preserve! FPWC Natural Resources Technician Sandra will be on hand to discuss what we see throughout the evening. This is a family-friendly event! Program will take place at the Grove Nature Playscape.
Severson Dells Forest Preserve
The Grove Nature Playscape
8786 Montague Rd., Rockford, IL 61102
October 9, 2025 | 8:30 a.m.
October Guided Bird Hike
Join us for a free guided bird walk at Deer Run Forest Preserve! FPWC Wildlife Biologist Liz will discuss bird identification, helpful birding technology, and nature journaling while the group searches for migratory species.
This hike is aimed at beginner birders. Please bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Plan to hike 2-3 miles on mixed terrain (paved, grass, some incline/decline). 15 participant maximum.
Deer Run Forest Preserve
5691 River Road, Cherry Valley, IL 61016
September 10, 2025 | 5:30 p.m.
Invasive & Nuisance Plants in the Forest Landscape: Fall Edition
with Illinois Extension
Some plants quietly—yet quickly—invade and overtake our landscapes, pushing out natives and offering no benefits to people, wildlife, or the environment. Fall can be an ideal time to identify and manage many invasive plants, particularly woody varieties. Join Illinois Extension Educator Jay Solomon and FPWC Natural Resources Director Mike Brien for an engaging walking discussion to learn why managing invasives matters and how to do it effectively.
Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve
5360 Mulford Road, Cherry Valley, IL 61016
October 16, 2025 | 5:30 p.m.
Fall Foliage Hike
Experience the incredible fall foliage that Seward Bluffs is famous for! Seward Bluffs boasts woodland and oak-savanna habitats, as well as streams and dolomite cliffs, making for a unique and varied hike.
Please plan on mixed terrain - paved, grass trail, some incline/decline. Leashed pets allowed.
Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve
16999 Comly Road, Seward, IL 61077
September 24, 2025 | 5:30 p.m.
Guided Hike - Roland Olson
Join us for a guided hike of Roland Olson Forest Preserve! Once a polo complex, Roland Olson is now a favorite spot for hiking with restored prairie, upland wood, and remnant pine plantation habitats to explore. Plan to hike approximately 1.5 miles on mixed terrain (grass, some incline/decline).
Roland Olson Forest Preserve
9669 Atwood Road, Roscoe, IL 61073
October 18, 2025 | 1:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Legacy Tree Hike
with Natural Land Institute
Alan Branhagen, NLI’s Executive Director, will lead a hike at Deer Run Forest Preserve to point out the variety of trees and their interesting and unique features. He will also discuss NLI’s Legacy Tree Program and show the October Tree of the Month that will be featured at this preserve (it’s a surprise!).
Photo credit: Rob Clark
Deer Run Forest Preserve
5691 River Road, Cherry Valley, IL 61016
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