Forest Preserves

Purpose

“To acquire, restore and manage lands for the purpose of protecting and preserving public open space with its natural wonders, significant prairies, forests, wetlands, rivers, streams, and other landscapes with all of its associated wildlife, in a natural state for the education, pleasure and recreation of the public now and in the future.”

Mandates

Cook County Forest Preserve District Act (Illinois Statute, 1913), 70 ILCS 810/7

• Acquire land to preserve and protect public open space
• Restore and manage native habitats to maintain biodiversity and ecological health
• Provide environmental education programs for families, individuals, students and youth groups
• Offer compatible outdoor recreation opportunities
• Manage operations using best practices to ensure efficient, effective and transparent use of public funds

Programs and Key Activities

The Forest Preserves provides Cook County residents with:

• Nature
  • More than 70,000 acres of natural areas and open space
  • Diverse ecosystems including forests, woodlands, savannas, prairies and wetlands
  • More than 25 dedicated nature preserves
• Environmental Education
  • Six nature centers with programs for all ages
  • Interpretive trails and exhibits
  • One wildlife research facility
• Outdoor Recreation
  • Nearly 300 picnic groves
  • 40 managed lakes and ponds
  • Two youth camps
  • Seven major waterways
  • Three aquatic centers
  • 12 golf facilities
  • Over 400 miles of marked trails