On a lovely morning we had a great turnout, working along the shore of Maple Lake selectively removing and burning invasive brush. Thanks to first-time volunteers Jillian, Mike, Laura, James, and Kevin, and to Jessica, One of our Paddock Wednesday people, for bringing husband Kevin.
Spears Woods August 29
We collected seed on the prairie at Spears, with five volunteers from U of I Extension Master Naturalist program, a couple Palos regulars, and Kris DaPra from FPCC Volunteer Resources. Special thanks to Kris for putting this program together. We will have four more seed collection days before season's end.
Paddock Woods August 30
This was the first day officially led by Bob Schwaan, who proved his mettle by prepping three brush piles so we had fire within minutes of our arrival. Another super turnout with 22 volunteers total, including first-timers Christian and Julianna. We got so much done we could break for lunch shortly after 11 chill while watching the fires burn down.
Congrats to Ginger on her new gig with Friends of the Forest Preserves; we will miss her on Wednesdays. We'll also miss Devin, who starts high school next week. He and mom Carrie have been a huge help at multiple sites this year.
Postcard from Redwood:
Brad Marciniec, who volunteered extensively since fall 2016, sent some pictures and an update this week. He remains at Redwood National Park until autumn and has been promoted from volunteer to interpretive ranger. Congratulations! The trees seen in the last picture below are NOT found in the Palos preserves.