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.

July 2, 2020

Man Loves Exploring the Preserves

Greg ProngerNature Explorer

I married my childhood sweetheart, Deb, and we settled down in Naperville in 1984 and raised a family of six kids (2 boys, 4 girls). We now have 7...

June 16, 2020

Long-Distance Cyclist Tours Preserves

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Isabel Reyes-ToddLong-distance cyclist

I have a passion for long-distance endurance cycling on gravel roads. I love seeing new landscapes and sharing the experience with old and...

June 4, 2020

Preserves Provide Training Ground for Runner

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Melissa GarloughRunner Sprints Through Preserves

I am blessed as a mom of three children: Emma (15), Kaitlyn (13), and Lorelai (9). I am a professional home organizer and own my...

May 20, 2020

Soccer Family Gets a Kick Out of Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Amber KlimekFamily Gets Kick Out of Nature

We are a family of four: Carlos, Amber, Diego (9) and Lula (7) Klimek. We are a soccer, travel and nature-loving family.

May 7, 2020

Woman Relishes 'Gift' of Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Emily Tipping has lived in Warrenville since 2004. "I’m an outdoor lover — hiking, casual birdwatching, gardening, and bicycling," she said.

April 22, 2020

Man Has an Eye for Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Bob Bates is an outdoorsman who takes his cameras with him everywhere he goes. He grew up in Carol Stream, graduated from Eastern Illinois University and then married his wife,...

April 10, 2020

Man Reclaims His Health through Nature

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Michael Reher turned to nature to reclaim his health, but it ended up giving him so much more.

March 25, 2020

Nature is a Classroom for Teacher

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Kiel Smith is a firm believer that there is much to learn from nature. The science teacher at Metea Valley High School in Aurora is also a steward of the Forest Preserve...

March 11, 2020

Woman Turns To Preserves for Exercise, Adventure

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Growing up in Minnesota, Marie Biemesderfer has always been drawn to water and nature. She remembers discovering how things came to life after in the spring after a long winter...

February 28, 2020

Nature Inspires Woman in Many Ways

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Judith Horsley believes in teaching by example. She and her husband, Michael, planted native gardens at their West Chicago home and their church, both of which are now certified...