Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County improves the quality of life for all DuPage County residents. Its 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways contribute to cleaner air and water, help with flood control, create vital habitats for wildlife, and provide safe spaces where people can boost their physical and mental health. More than 5.5 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 175 miles of trails, seven education centers, and scores of programs each year.

November 2, 2021

Girl Bonds with Horses, Nature

At 10 years old, Tessa Burritt has a full schedule. The fifth grader’s interests include softball, basketball, karate, art and horses.

October 6, 2021

Man Feels Spiritual Connection to Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Bryon Pulliam has been a public high school special needs educator for nearly 20 years. In that time, he has also worked in various levels of sport and recreation, from middle...

August 31, 2021

Artist Paints His Vision of Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

After working for 45 years as an architect, Ratindra Das took up painting in retirement. He’s now a nationally known artist, educator and juror who travels the world leading...

August 10, 2021

Man Finds Peace Among Horses, Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

When Lazaro Lara is struggling with something — be it his physical, emotional, psychological health or even social well-being, working with the Danada horses as a volunteer is his...

July 20, 2021

Couple Explores History in Preserves

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Brian and Joyce Ostberg are interested in all things history — natural history, pre-history, and general history. In autumn 2020, they started a YouTube channel, dubbed BeHistoric...

July 7, 2021

Exploring Nature Has Many Rewards for Family

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Growing up, Nick Papineau got well-acquainted with nature thanks to his parents, who took him hiking, camping and hunting. The COVID-19 pandemic last year prompted Papineau to...

June 21, 2021

Nature Puts Life in Perspective for Man

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Nature helps put life in perspective for Melvin Godson and provides a way to disconnect from technology and daily stresses. It also helped him get through the pandemic.

June 10, 2021

Teen Birder Gives Back to Preserves

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Alex DeBear is a 16-year-old birder from Naperville. He has a deep love for all things nature related, including photography, citizen science and creating art with natural...

May 26, 2021

Nature Keeps Couple Physically, Mentally Active

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Nature and the outdoors help Rick and Lisa Hootman keep mentally, physically and socially active. They like hiking, bicycling, cross-country skiing, reading and attending academic...

May 4, 2021

Nature Provides Lifelong Learning for Teacher

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

As a retired teacher, it only makes sense that John Cebula continues to teach. He’s active in the DuPage Birding Club and presents many bird-related program throughout the area.