Illinois
Department of Natural Resources
VOLO BOG & MORAINE HILLS
INTERPRETIVE
INFORMATION
VOLO BOG & MORAINE HILLS
INTERPRETIVE
INFORMATION
 |
Volo
Bog State Natural Area Moraine
Hills State Park |
Public Programs | Public Book Discussions | Schools and Other Youth Groups
Volunteer Opportunities | Volo Bog Activity Guide - Primary
Forty-five miles northwest of Chicago in Lake County, Volo Bog is the only “quaking” bog in Illinois. The bog is a registered National Natural Landmark and a dedicated nature preserve. Picnicking, hiking, and cross country skiing are offered at the site. There is an abundance of unique plants and wildlife that can be seen in Volo Bog.
Volo Bog State Natural Area is home to Illinois'
only remaining open-water quaking bog. A gift of the Wisconsin Glacier,
Volo Bog began forming in a kettle hole lake over 6,000 years ago. A floating
mat of vegetation encroached from the lake edges toward the center. The
initial plant community included sphagnum mosses and sedges. As these
plants died, they did not decompose but formed a floating substrate of
peat from which more plants grew. As the mat thickened, it supported larger
plants such as cranberry, leatherleaf and poison sumac. Deciduous tamarack
pines gained a foothold as the mat thickened to support their increasing
weight. Highbush blueberry, the carnivorous pitcher plant and 
several
orchids also make their home in Volo Bog. Today, five plant communities
encircle a half-acre pond like a target. The pond has no true bottom;
suspended peat thickens toward the bottom of the old kettle hole 50+ feet
below. A 1/2 mile trail including a wooden boardwalk loops through all
the stages of bog succession to overlook the center pond.
Volo Bog was designated an Illinois Nature Preserve in 1970 and a National Natural Landmark in 1973. It is an excellent outdoor laboratory and classroom. Interpretive programs are available to most ages (beginning at 4 years old) throughout the year.
INTERPRETER INFORMATION
Stacy Iwanicki
For the General
Public:
Guided public tours of Volo Bog are conducted on Saturdays and Sundays
at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for individuals, families and small groups.
Groups of ten or more are asked to make arrangements for a private group
tour. The one-hour bog tour follows a half-mile boardwalk through all
the stages of classic bog succession as an old glacial lake gives way
to sphagnum moss, orchids, poison sumac and tamarack trees. Frogs and
tadpoles entertain most every visitor spring through fall. Muskrats and
mink delight the more careful observers. Even winter is a wonder at Volo
Bog with bright red berries on winterberry and an abundance of animal
tracks on freshly fallen snow. Occasional winters have hosted rare visitors
from the north including saw-whet owls and crossbills. Pets not
allowed on the Boardwalk.
In addition to the public bog tours, a broad spectrum of special events, tours, lectures and workshops are also held throughout the year.
Events:
Winterfest - 2nd Sunday in January
International Migratory Bird Day - Sunday in late April/Early May
International Bog Day - 4th Sunday in July
Ghost Stories - 2nd Saturday in October
Volunteer Opportunities at Volo Bog & Moraine Hills
Volo Bog Volunteer Application | Moraine Hills Volunteer Application
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is looking for dedicated adults for a variety of volunteer projects (outlined below) at Volo Bog State Natural Area and Moraine Hills State Park. For further information, or to register for a workshop, please contact Naturalist Stacy Iwanicki at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov.
Crafty Bog Committee at Volo Bog
Volo Bog State Natural Area is re-vamping its CBC! Members of this committee
will develop craft ideas made with natural and used materials, and
will enjoy teaching the projects to others at special events and craft
days.
Roving Naturalists at Moraine Hills
Roving Naturalists, as the name implies, will not sit in one place for
long! Dressed in “naturalist-wear,” they will reach out
to visitors along the trails to answer questions and share seasonal
observations such as frog & bird calls, flowers in bloom, animal
signs, etc... A wonderful example is when a volunteer bluebird monitor
discovered the emergence of garter snakes and stopped passers-by to
share in the wonder.
Docents at Moraine Hills
Docents are friendly adults who greet people on weekends at Moraine Hills’ Nature
Center. They assist with directions and share insights to enhance the
visitors’ park experience. For example, docents will encourage
folks to contribute to the site’s bird log, sign up for interpretive
programs or check out loaner binoculars. Docents will also encourage
visitors to watch for Roving Naturalists along their hike.
Bluebird Monitors at Volo
Bog & Moraine Hills
Bluebird Monitors check and maintain from 10 - 20 nest boxes once per
week from late March through early August. There are three openings
for bluebird monitors at Moraine Hills State Park. Additional monitoring
opportunities may be available at other trails throughout Lake and
McHenry Counties.
Prairie Gardeners at Volo
Bog & Natural Gardeners at Moraine Hills
Volunteer gardeners attend to the native prairie & woodland gardens
that grace the grounds at each site. Some gardeners have prior knowledge
but many are beginners who learn on-the-job. PGVs and NGVs are folks
who like to keep their own schedule and work mostly behind the scenes
but who are not afraid to promote the use of natives in the garden with
visitors who happen by. Prairie and Native Gardeners will have their spring organizational meeting at Volo Bog State Natural Area on Sunday, March 21 from 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. To register, phone 815-344-1294.
Hummingbird Feeder Maintenance at Volo Bog
Volo Bog is going to hold a Hummingbird Festival at Volo Bog this summer!
Volunteers are needed to clean and re-fill up to ten hummingbird feeders
every-other day from late March - early November (possibly even later).
To accomplish this at least 3 volunteers will be needed to contribute
once per week - If more people are available, each can come in less
frequently.
Volo Bog State Natural Area is an Illinois Department of Natural Resources
site located in Ingleside on Brandenburg Road west off U.S. Highway
12 between State Highways 120 and 134.
Moraine Hills State Park and McHenry Dam are an Illinois Department of
Natural Resources complex located south of McHenry on River Road between
State Highways 120 and 176.
For further information on volunteer opportunities,
or to register for a workshop, please contact Naturalist Stacy Iwanicki
at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
The Friends of Volo Bog is offering two scholarships for $1,000 each to outstanding students interested in pursuing environmental careers. Applications can be found at www.friendsofvolobog.org and are due by the fourth friday in February.
To be eligible for the "Entering College" Scholarship the applicant must reside in Lake, McHenry, Kane, Cook, DuPage, Kendall, or Will County, attend a high school in one of these counties, have a minimum B average for the first three years, and plan to attend an accredited college or university. The applicant should be planning to enter a career directly related to preserving the environment.
To be eligible for the "Continuing College" Scholarship the applicant must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, have a permanent residence in Lake, McHenry, Kane, Cook, DuPage, Kendall, or Will County, have graduated from a high school from one of these counties with a minimum B average, and currently hold a minimum B average in their college studies. The applicant should be on a course study leading to a career directly related to preserving the environment.
Applications are due by the fourth Friday in February.
Application packets are available at http://www.friendsofvolobog.org/
The Friends of Volo Bog is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) membership organization dedicated to the preservation of the area’s natural heritage, maintenance of site facilities, and advancement of educational programming at Volo Bog State Natural Area.
Spring Program Schedule
Come Out and Play at
Volo Bog State Natural Area
Moraine Hills State Park & McHenry Dam
LNCI! Leave No Child Inside!
Most programs are FREE - Donations are happily accepted by the sites’ associated Friends groups.
For membership and other information visit www.FriendsofVoloBog.org and www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org
Reservations are requested for most programs (and required for some)
Phone 815-344-1294 or email dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
Limited drop-ins usually welcome but...program may be cancelled if minimum registration is not met 24 hours prior.
Guided Tours of Volo Bog
Most Saturdays & Sundays 11:00 am & 1:00 pm LNCI!
Explore Illinois' only remaining open-water quaking bog where the trees move with your steps, plants eat bugs and other strange things occur! As the peat thaws, the willows and leatherleaf bloom and pitcher plants green up with the warming sun. Tamarack needles emerge from spur shoots and birds stake out territories. All ages are welcome. No reservations needed, except.... Groups of 10 or more, please phone for 815-344-1294 to arrange a private group tour. Public tours last about one hour. For more information, phone 815-344-1294 or visit Volo Bog State Natural Area at http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks/R2/VOLOBOG.HTM
Attention Photographers - MHSP Photo Contest is earlier!
Moraine Hills State Park Photo Contest Entry Forms Available
Friday, March 2 10:00 a.m.
Beginning Friday, March 2, find an entry form at www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org, by request to dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or in person at the Moraine Hills Nature Center.
Entries accepted beginning 10:00 a.m. first Friday in May - all submissions must be delivered as mounted prints to MHSP's Nature Center
Entry Deadline 3:00 p.m. first Friday in June
Bird Walks at McHenry Dam LNCI! March 3 Walk may be cancelled due to the coming snow! Catch us next time.
Saturdays &/or Sundays 8:00 a.m.
March 3, 17, 31; April 14, 21; May 19, 26 (look for additional bird walks at Volo Bog State Natural Area)
Starting along the Fox River, look for bald eagles, goldeneyes, mergansers, kingfishers and other water-loving birds. Then hit the "yellow" trail in search of juncos, goldfinches, brown creepers and tree sparrows in the marshes, prairies & woods. Bluebirds are back already and singing. Dress for the weather; bring binoculars and field guides or borrow from the leader. Walk length and time varies from 1 - 3+ hours with weather & luck in birding! Co-sponsored by McHenry County Audubon - visit www.McHenryAudubon.org Adults and attentive kids age 6 and up are welcome. Meet at south end of McHenry Dam Parking. Registrations is requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov Walk-ins welcome but walk may be cancelled if minimum registration not met 24 hours prior.
Catch us at the Great Outdoors Expo in Woodstock
March 3 & 4
Check it out at www.GreatOutdoorsExpo.net
We're Illinois Department of Natural Resources & Friends! Drawing for free bird house!
Photographers Note! - MHSP Photo Contest Dates moved earlier
Moraine Hills Photo Contest
Friday, March 2 Moraine Hills State Park Photo Contest Entry Form becomes available
Volo Bog Youth Art Guild has Openings! LNCI!
Meets First Sunday of each month (except January) from 9:30 am - 12:00 noon
March 4; April 1; May 6...
Ages 10 - 17 welcome
Limited Class Size
Nature Focused & includes outdoor and indoor time each month
Different Adult Artist introduces a new medium each month
$30.00 Annual Fee covers basic materials; additional material fees apply
For more info contact Volo Bog at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294
Book Discussions at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Second Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Of Bogs & Books is an informal gathering of adults who share morning coffee & snacks over discussion of nature, science & environmental readings. 189 titles by 160 authors have been discussed since establishment in 1994.
Upcoming selections are:
March 10 - Coyote at the Kitchen Door - Living with Wildlife in Suburbia by Stephen DeStefano
April 14 - When the Killing's Done: A Novel by T. C. Boyle
April's participants choose Summer Selections
May 12 - The Universe is a Green Dragon: A Cosmic Creation Story by Brian Swimme
Join us for an afternoon outdoor session -- Experiencing the Green Dragon: Deriving Wisdom, Meaning & Purpose from the Universe.
Ask for our flyer with book reviews of the current selections and for our list of all the books we've read so far!
June 9 - The Story of Stuff - How Our Obsession with Stuff is Trashing the Planet, Our Communities, and our Health - and a Vision for Change by Annie Leonard
Registration is requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov Drop-ins are welcome too.
Bird Walks at Volo Bog State Natural Area LNCurdays & Sundays 8:00 a.m.
March 11, 24; April 7, 29; May 6, 12 (look for additional bird walks at McHenry Dam)
Redwinged blackbirds are singing in the marsh! Sandhill Cranes are eyeing territory. Dress for the weather; bring binoculars and field guides or borrow from the leader. Walk length and time varies from 1 - 3+ hours with weather & luck in birding! Co-sponsored by McHenry County Audubon Visit www.McHenryAudubon.org Meet in the Parking Lot Adults and attentive kids age 6 and up are welcome. Registrations is requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov Walk-ins welcome but walk may be cancelled if minimum registration not met 24 hours prior.
Astronomy Nights at Volo Bog State Natural Area LNCI!
Third Fridays 8:30 p.m. - open
March 16; April 20; May 18, etc...
The Lake County Astronomical Society meets at Volo Bog SNA on the 3rd Friday of each month except December. A business meeting is held at 7:30 p.m. followed by an indoor presentation at 8:30 p.m. and viewing if skies are clear at about 9:30 p.m. The public is always welcome - no registration required. Visit www.LCAS-Astronomy.org
Birds, birds & more birds...
Bluebird Workshops at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Saturday, March 17
- 9:30 a.m - 12:00 Noon - Monitors' Review - For experienced/existing monitors throughout Lake & McHenry Counties to share thoughts and ideas
- 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - An Introduction to Bluebird Monitoring - for potential new monitors for both counties, and anybody, from anywhere, interested in learning more about bluebird monitoring.
Bluebirds are little, soft-spoken thrushes, related to robins - not to be confused with those noisy jays related to crows. Dependent on nest cavities historically excavated by woodpeckers, these little "gems of blue" now depend heavily on bird houses and the efforts of humans that love them. Monitors throughout North America are responsible for their amazing comeback. Monitors are being sought for a variety of state and county sites. Workshop led by Lake County Blue Bird Coordinator Walt Sivertsen. Ages 11 - Adult welcome. Younger family members may subsequently participate with their adult in monitoring. Registration Required at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294.
Annual Midwest Crane Count Monitors Workshop at Volo Bog State Natural Area (McHenry County)
Sunday, March 18 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Citizen scientists are sought to go out in the pre-dawn hours of April 14 to count cranes. But first, new monitors are encouraged to attend this training. McHenry County's Crane Count Coordinator Stacy Iwanicki leads the workshop and coordinates the McHenry County monitoring sites. Numerous sites are available in the county. A few may be available in Lake County but most of these are taken (more info will be available at the workshop). Ages 15 - Adult welcome to workshop. Younger family members are welcome to participate in the April count. Registration Required at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294.
ShutterBugs of Volo Bog Meet at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Third Wednesdays 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
March 21; April 18; May 20
Learn how to improve your nature photography! Through guest speaker programs and competitions, photographers will learn how to create impactful nature images. While membership is required to compete, the general public is welcome to attend. Memberships are available at the meetings. Visit www.shutterbugsofvolobog.org
Habitat Restoration and Stewardship Team Work Days
at Volo Bog State Natural Area & Moraine Hills State Park
Saturday, March 31 & Sunday, April 15 12:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Have Fun AND Make a Difference! Join us as we tackle exotic invasive species and re-establish the natives. We pull, cut, plant and gather seeds, depending on the season. HWDs are a fun family project (adults & Kids 7 & up). Please dress for the weather and bring gloves (we’ll have a few to borrow too). Friends of Volo Bog provide light snacks. At Volo Bog SNA - Meet behind Visitor Center. At MHPS - Phone for location. Reservations requested at 815-344-1294. New HRST Volunteers, please arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork ;0)
Support Moraine Hills State Park
Participate in the Second Annual 5K Walk/Run "HUMAN RACE"
Sunday, April 15, 2012 @ 9AM at the McHenry Corporate Center (off Rte. 31)
GET ACTIVE while Supporting Moraine Hills State Park!!! Jump start your spring with walks on the many trails of Moraine Hills State Park & McHenry Dam so that you will be in shape to participate in the second annual 5K Walk/Run "HUMAN RACE"
Last year over 570 racers raised money for their favorite participating charity. Please choose "Friends of Moraine Hills State Park" as the charity you wish to support with your registration (see below). If you are not able to participate in the event but still wish to donate, simply donate to a Friends of Moraine Hills Team Member.
Pre-registration for participants:
Online until midnight April 8 is $25, after that it is $30 (participants pay their own $3.25 fee)
Offline is $30 until April 8, after that it is $35 (download a race registration form at www.mchumanrace.org)
Race website: http://www.mchumanrace.org
Main Fundraising page for the Human Race: http://www.active.com/donate/mchumanrace2012
Hope to see you on the trails!
International Migratory Bird Day at McHenry Dam LNCI!
Family Fun Celebration of Birds and Bird Migration along the Fox River
Saturday, April 28 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Get Banded! Then, go on a Bird Behavior Scavenger Hunt, take the Great Migration Challenge, Fill the Bill, compete in Jeop-Birdy, and sign our Bird Action Pledge. We'll be playing these and many other games, looking through spotting scopes, taking short bird walks, stamping passports and giving out lots of prizes. This family fun event along the Fox River holds something for kids of all ages - including adult "kids" too! Stop by for a 1/2 hour or stay all afternoon! Sponsored by Friends of Moraine Hills State Park & McHenry County Audubon. Contact Stacy at dnr.volobog@illinois.org for sponsorship opportunities.
A Day with "John James Audubon" at Volo Bog State Natural Area LNCI! See Attached!
Celebrating International Migratory Bird Day
Sunday, April 29 Day-long fun! Bring a lunch and plan to stay for the day or stop in for a part.
Brian "Fox" Ellis is John James Audubon!
8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Birding with "John James Audubon"
Join "John James Audubon" on a leisurly bird walk that includes stories of the renouned natualist's birding adventures. Late April can feature a wide variety of birds from grebes, ducks, herons and cranes, to flycatchers, swallows, thrushes and early warblers . What can be better than that? Finding those birds with the help of J. J. Audubon, of course. This bird walk is geared to adults and attentive kids 6 years old & up. Meet in the parking lot! Reservations are requested; drop-ins welcome.
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Birds in the Museum - an Audubon Open-House Gallery Talk in the Visitor Center
Discover birds through Audubon's art - these ones won't fly away! Explore over two dozen authentic Audubon prints as "the artist" shares insights to how they were made and stories of Audubon's observations of each bird, featuring Audubon's own words from his journals. Stop in for a few minutes or stay for two hours. No reservations needed for the gallery talk. All ages welcome
1:30 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. An Afternoon of Stories with "John James Audubon"
Audubon brings bird behavior to life through his art. Ellis' "Audubon" tell stories focusing on the birds we are most likely to see bird watching in Northeastern Illinois. Audubon followed the annual migrations of birds throughout North America in the 1820s and 1830s, keeping meticulous journals on the birds he saw. Peppered with field ecology, the scientific method, art history, and bird migration, the audience is invited to imitate birds and discuss the life histories of their favorite feathered friends. Geared to adults and kids 8 years old & up. Reservations are requested. Seating is limited. Drop-ins welcome if space allows.
Thanks to our generous sponsors for bringing "John James Audubon" to Volo Bog State Natural Area: Friends of Volo Bog, McHenry County Audubon, Lake County Audubon, Wild Bird Center of Fox River Grove, and several anonymous donors.
Photographers Note! - MHSP Photo Contest Dates moved earlier
Moraine Hills State ParkPhoto Contest Entries Accepted
May 4 @ 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. June 1
Entry forms available beginning March 2 at www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org, by request to dnr.volobog@illinois.gov, in person at the Moraine Hills SP Nature Center and as an attachment in future updates.
Entries accepted beginning 10:00 a.m. first Friday in May - all submissions must be delivered as mounted prints to MHSP's Nature Center
Entry Deadline 3:00 p.m. first Friday in June
Photos Displayed for Voting from second Friday in June through Friday after Labor Day.
Experiencing the Green Dragon - Deriving Wisdom, Meaning & Purpose from the Universe
at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Saturday, May 12 * 12:15 - 4:00 pm
Leaders: Steve Heaviland and Pastor Keith Cerk
This program is derived from the May Of Bogs & Books Selection - The Universe is a Green Dragon: A Cosmic Creation Story by Brian Swimme, to be discussed the morning of this same day. As it will add depth to the experience, one is encouraged (but not required) to have read the book to participate in this afternoon program.
Deep down, we all seek to live our lives with meaning and gusto in relation to the big questions in life: Where do I fit in the universe? How can I experience a greater sense of intimate belonging within the community of Earth? What is my purpose in life all about? What are my deepest desires; the things which truly make me come alive? How can I find my own creative work and make the contribution which is uniquely mine? What about that sense of Mystery greater-than-myself which seems to be behind everything?
Keith Cerk and Steve Heaviland, “Friends of Volo Bog” and veteran outdoor retreat leaders, will guide us through an unforgettable experiential afternoon in the Bog. We will first learn to become more sensitive listeners to the natural world. Then, during time alone on the land, we will listen for the wisdom nature has to impart in regards to life questions we might be asking. (Morning book discussion will be helpful, but not necessary, for this experience.)
Morning and afternoon programs are free of charge, RSVP is requested. Please register (and ask logistical questions) at: 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. Additional program questions can be directed to Keith Cerk at: thecerks@aol.com or 708-606-8421.
Keith Cerk is a wilderness guide, outdoor educator, and ordained minister with a passion for introducing others to the wonders of nature. He co-founded A Cool Learning Experience, which teaches natural science and core academics to Waukegan children using the outdoors to stimulate natural curiosity and love for learning.
Steve Heaviland is a teaching tennis-pro who grew up by the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. He has a deep heart for lakes and woods, and has spent extensive time leading trips in the Northwoods and outdoor retreats closer to home.
Looking Ahead:
May 2 Teachers - call at 8:00 a.m. to register for Fall Field Trips
June 1
Entries accepted for Bogs In Art show
Entry Deadline for MHSP Photo Contest
June 8 Moraine Hills Photo Contest up for Voting through September 7; Awards September 15
June 9 Family Fishing & River Discovery Day at McHenry Dam LNCI!
June 24 Friends of Volo Bog Annual Members' Picnic
July 14 Friends of Moraine Hills Annual Members' Picnic
July 22 International Bog Day (ask about our Bogs In Art show)
August 4 Bats in Your Belfry at Volo Bog (registration begins June 1)
Donations Sought
Simple things from around the house go a long way to help keep us going!
- Closed-cell camping pads - we cut them up to make sit-upons.
- Nature DVDs for our libraries
- Clear 3M or Scotch Brand Packaging Tape
- Pencils with good erasers - used OK, as long as erasers are good ;0)
- Pencil Eraser Caps
- White View Binders - any size; used OK if in good shape
- Push Pins with little BB-like heads
Please be true to the exact items listed. Contact Volo Bog by reply, to dnr.volobog@illinois.gov, or 815-344-1294 before delivering donations.
Shop the Tamarack Shop at Volo Bog!
We're Small "Business"/Not-for-Profit *** Many Items Made in America
New Volo Bog Coffee Mugs, Sweat Shirts & Patches are Here!
Open Fridays 12 - 3 pm & Weekends 9 am - 3 pm
Cash & Checks Only (sorry no plastic)
Open Fridays, 12 noon - 3:00 p.m.; Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
(And by luck and chance otherwise ;0)!
The Tamarack Shop features a nice selection of nature-related items including nature books & field guides,
fold-out ID cards, t-shirts, Volo Bog Ball Caps, puppets, music & nature sounds CDs and more!
Run by the Friends of Volo Bog, members save 10% on most items.
Memberships start at only $10.00!!! Find a printable membership form at www.FriendsofVoloBog.org
Cash and Checks Only - sorry no plastic. Proceeds support programming and habitat projects at Volo Bog State Natural Area.
GET ACTIVE while
Supporting Moraine Hills State Park!!!
Jump start your spring with walks on the many trails of Moraine Hills State Park & McHenry Dam...
so that you will be in shape to participate in the second annual:
5K Walk/Run "HUMAN RACE"
Sunday, April 15, 2012 @ 9AM
at the McHenry Corporate Center (off Rte. 31)
Last year over 570 racers raised money for their favorite participating charity.
Please choose "Friends of Moraine Hills State Park" as the charity you wish to support with your registration (see below).
If you are not able to participate in the event but still wish to donate, simply donate to a Friends of Moraine Hills Team Member.
Pre-registration for participants:
o Online until midnight April 8 is $25, after that it is $30 (participants pay their own $3.25 fee)
o Offline is $30 until April 8, after that it is $35 (download a race registration form at www.mchumanrace.org)
Hope to see you on the trails!
Race website: http://www.mchumanrace.org
Main Fundraising page for the Human Race: http://www.active.com/donate/mchumanrace2012
Keep MOVING in 2012!
- Hike & Bicycle 10 miles of trails at Moraine Hills State Park & McHenry Dam including a 2 mile loop at McHenry Dam
- Hike 5 miles of natural grassy paths at Volo Bog State Natural Area including .4 miles into the heart of Volo Bog!
23 1/2 Hours...
Here's another good reason to hike our trails (Not that enjoying Nature isn't enough ;0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUaInS6HIGo
Volo Bog State Natural Area is an Illinois Department of Natural Resources site located in Ingleside on Brandenburg Road west off U.S. Highway 12 between State Highways 120 and 134. For program reservations, contact 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
Moraine Hills State Park and McHenry Dam are an Illinois Department of Natural Resources complex located South of McHenry on River Road between State Highways 120 and 176. For reservations for programs at Moraine Hills, please contact Volo Bog at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov For information on the park itself, please phone 815-385-1624.
Visit our sites' Friends Groups & Associates:
www.FriendsofVoloBog.org
www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org
www.ShutterBugsofVoloBog.org
www.McHenryAudubon.org
www.lcas-astronomy.org
www2.illinois.gov/veterans/programs/Pages/conservation-corps.aspx
www.chicagowilderness.org
www.kidsoutside.info
LNCI!
Leave No Child Inside!
PUBLIC BOOK DISCUSSIONS AT VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL AREA
"Of Bogs & Books"
Engaging Conversations since 1994!
Second Saturday of each month @ 10 AM
Volo Bog’s Visitor Center Library
Refreshments & Coffee
Participants are encouraged to have read at least part of the book (although this is not required).
No minimum requirement - come once a year or every month as time allows and/or the book entices.
Reservations are requested at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294.
FOR SCHOOL AND OTHER YOUTH GROUPS
Volo Bog offers 17 different programs ranging from Bog Life and Aqua Safari to Animal Tracking and Tomorrow’s Leaders. There are numerous programs offered at each grade level beginning at 2nd grade. Prekindergarten through 1st graders are taken on a Small Wonders program which focuses on the safe use of our senses as we explore the natural world.
NOTE: All programs are offered at Volo Bog State Natural Area. Programs indicated with an * are also offered at Moraine Hills State Park. Sorry, no indoor lunch facility at Moraine Hills State Park.
At Volo Bog, we define "Youth Group" very casually. Any gathering of ten or more people (minimum 8 children with two supervising adults) qualifies.
WHEN TO SCHEDULE FOR WEEKDAY SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS:
Fall (September - December) Winter (January - February) Spring (March - May) Summer (June - August) |
May September January May |
SCHOOL GROUP SIZE: 10 Students minimum; 60 Students maximum (will be broken into smaller groups)
SCOUT AND OTHER YOUTH PROGRAMS are offered on Saturdays. Generally one month notice is adequate but availability varies seasonally. Youth group size: 10 people minimum; 40 people maximum (split into two groups).
BOG LIFE Note: I/O = Indoor/Outdoor
| 2nd - 12th grades | Year-round (I/O) | 1 ˝ - 2 hours |
Learn how Volo Bog was formed then explore this unique wetland for fascinating plants and secretive animals. Scary tales of bog bodies and boogie men are among the favorites. Add the famous Visitor Center Hunt for the extra half-hour.
THE ECOLOGY OF VOLO BOG
| 7 - 12th grades | May - October (I/O) | 4 hours |
A program to really get into - this program involves the students in their studies of Volo Bog through an in-depth, interactive, interdisciplinary program. An activity guide leads students through two class periods of required preparations before the visit and gives suggestions for follow-up extensions.
AQUA SAFARI *
| 2nd - 12th grades | May - September (I/O) | 1 ˝ - 2 hours |
Explore the private lives of aquatic inhabitants. Using such highly technical equipment as dish pans, kitchen strainers and turkey basters, students gather aquatic invertebrates and study one in detail. Older students discuss biodiversity and the use of aquatic invertebrates as environmental health indicators.
A SHOVEL FULL OF EARTH *
| 3rd - 6th grades | May - September (Outdoor) | 1 ˝ hours |
Students get face to face with the secretive inhabitants of the “underworld.” The formation and importance of soil is discussed. Biodiversity is introduced through fun, comparative data collection and analysis appropriate to elementary levels.
ANIMAL HOMES *
| 2nd - 5th grades | October - April (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Everybody needs a HOME! Or do they? Through interactive games and/or a scavenger hunt, children distinguish homes from habitats. The characteristics and uses of habitats and homes are discussed then we explore for real-life examples of each.
BIRDS
| 2nd - 6th grades | October - April (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
What makes a bird a bird? First we’ll discover what makes them different from other animals. Then we’ll take an up-close comparative look at some examples. Finally, an outdoor excursion will demonstrate how to look for birds and signs of their presence. “We’ll GO BIRDING!”
MAMMALS *
| 2nd - 6th grades | December - March (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
What do all mammals including humans have in common? How are they different from all other animals? What mammals are native to Illinois? Discover this an more through hands on activities and a scavenger hike.
BATTY ABOUT BATS
| 1st - 6th grades | October - March (Indoor) | 1 ˝ hours |
“Bats are blind...Bats get caught in your hair...All bats carry rabies...Bats will suck your blood...Bats are flying mice...” NOT! A video or slide show dispels these myths then games and crafts add to the fun of learning about these most misunderstood mammals.
INSECT SAFARI *
| 2nd - 6th grades | June - September (Outdoor) | 1 ˝ hours |
Discover more animals than can ever be imagined in one small field! Learn what makes insects unique, some of their survival techniques and how they fit into our lives.
ANIMAL TRACKING *
| 3rd - 12th grades | January - February (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Learn how different animals walk and how to decode the variety of signs they leave behind. Then explore the area to discover the secrets of winter life revealed in the signs discovered.
SMALL WONDERS - A SENSORY WALK *
| PK (min. age 4) - 1st. grade | Year - Round (I/O) | 45 minutes - 1 hour |
A grab-bag-o-fun fro the very young! Through a variety of activities and stories, children learn how to safely explore nature with their “discovery tools.” Activities vary with the seasons, needs of the group and adult:child ratios.
ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS
*
| 3rd - 6th grades | October - May (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Compare animals that are similar yet different to explore how they are each uniquely equipped for survival in different niches. Then, through activities such as the popular Bat & Moth and Hawk and Rabbit games, the concepts are reinforced.
WEB-O-LIFE
*
| 3rd - 6th grades | May - September (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Web-O-Life introduces communities: first our own human-dominated community, next a natural outdoor woodland community and finally a pictorial wetland community. Through hands-on exploration and personal involvement, students discover the interrelationships and interdependency of all members in a community. Final discussion addresses the most powerful community member of all.
TOMORROW’S LEADERS
| 7th - 12th grades | Year Around (Indoor) | 2 hours |
Students simulate a town meeting to make some very important choices concerning the future of their environment. This is a high-spirited program which stimulates discussion that often follows the students back to school and home! Optional follow-up classroom activity adds deeper dimension.
DIPPING INTO ASTRONOMY
| 4th - 6th grades | April - October (I/O) | 1 1/2 hours |
Learn the phases of the moon, how season work, the planets in our solar systme and why the sun and stars appear to ove across the sky. Finish with an introduction to fun constellations like Cassipoeia and the Big Dipper! All this and more is explored with members of the Lake County Astronomical Society through a fun, interactive approach!
ADULT GROUPS
Garden clubs, college classes and other groups of adults can take advantage of private group tours of Volo Bog as well as bird walks, bog botany and tree classes, Bats in Your Belfry (which includes a trip to Illinois’ largest known nursery colony of little brown bats), and a nature awareness immersion program, Rediscovering the Wonder Within.Scout Leaders * Singles Groups * Religious Groups
Parent Groups * Senior Groups
Friends & Neighbors * Any Social Group
VOLO BOG: AN INTRODUCTION
TO A UNIQUE ILLINOIS WETLAND
| 10 - 40 people** | Year Round (I/O) | 1 ˝ - 2 hours |
Volo Bog is a fascinating wetland ecosystem of treacherous floating soils and bizarre plants. This guided, half-mile tour along a floating boardwalk gives an up-close introduction to this strange world. Tours differ with each season: its hard to say which is best. Even winter offers a unique experience that is available at no other time. The tour can include a half hour slide presentation providing a glimpse of Volo Bog throughout the year. The slide portion alone is ideal as an off-site program for group gatherings. **As an off-site program, there is no maximum group size limit. A dark room with a projection- surface is required.
BOG BOTANY
| 10 - 15 people | May - October (I/O) | 2 hours |
Bog Botany is a fascinating study for garden clubs and other groups with a special botanical interest. The program addresses the unique adaptations of Volo Bog flora and includes a “hands-on” field identification session.
POND LIFE
| 10 - 25 people | May - October (I/O) | 2 hours |
A true “Rediscover Your Sense of Wonder” program, Pond Life invites participants to lie on their bellies and reach within the depths of a pond. The emphasis is on the aquatic invertebrates. The function of these animals as water quality indicators is addressed.
TREE AND SHRUB IDENTIFICATION
| 10 - 25 people | Year Around (I/O) | 2 hours |
Common trees and shrubs of northeastern Illinois woodlands will serve as examples in the development of tree identification skills. The program begins with a hands-on introduction to dichotomous keys. The field session introduces some of the most common species and quick clues to their identification.
BIRD WALK
| 10 - 15 people | Year (0) | 1 - 4 hours |
A bird walk is great for an early morning start. The length of the walk is very flexible and can be tailored to the group. The great diversity of Volo Bog State Natural Area’s habitats provides for a good selection of species with over 170 species documented.
ANIMAL TRACKING
| 10 - 25 people | January - February (I/O) | 2 - 4 hours |
Animal tracking is a great way to discover mammals living in an area. This program teaches how to identify tracks as well as numerous other signs or clues that mammals leave behind. It includes both an indoor presentation and a practical field session.
BATS IN YOUR BELFRY
| 25 - 75 people | July - August (I/O) | 2 hours |
Volo Bog State Natural Area is home to the largest nursery colony of little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) known on Illinois Department of Natural Resources property. This evening program includes a slide presentation and a short field trip to watch nearly 2,000 bats exit their nursery colony for a night’s feeding. Folks with youngsters may wish to watch for our scheduled “Bats in Your Belfry” general public programs. Although youth groups are not allowed to register for public programs, families from the groups may register individually.
REDISCOVERING THE
WONDER WITHIN
| 10 - 25 people | June - August 0 | 3 hours |
Immerse Your Senses in Nature! This is a real “let your hair down” program: great as a stress release in our bustling technological world! Participants learn nature observation and appreciation techniques adapted from John Muir, Aldo Leopold, Rachel Carson and renowned naturalist Joseph Cornell. Plan to leave your beepers, cell phones, watches, etc. at home, or at least in your car!
Volo
Bog’s Visitor Center is housed in a turn-of-the-(19th) century dairy
barn. The old barn has undergone a series of renovations over the years.
It opened to the public as a Visitor Center in 1980 and has since undergone
various upgrades and improvements. In November 1996, construction began
on the most extensive upgrade yet; a complete renovation. The newly remodeled
state-of-the-art building keeps the old-barn charm but is completely accessible
(featuring an elevator up the silo) and has a classroom facility to accommodate
80 people. The Tamarack Shop, run by the Friends of Volo Bog, offers gifts
and a wonderful selection of nature and environment-related books. The
second floor of the Visitor Center is two stories tall and features interpretive
exhibits about Volo Bog and wetlands in general as well as a popular interactive
discovery center. The Leatherleaf Library houses a wonderful selection
of books, magazines, and clippings in a lateral file. Much of the material
in the library is donated by visitors, Volo Bog Volunteers and the Friends
of Volo Bog. Check-out privileges are extended to Volo Bog Volunteers,
and members of the Friends of Volo Bog and The Lake County Astronomical
Society.
VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL
AREA
28478 W. BRANDENBURG ROAD
INGLESIDE, ILLINOIS 60041
815/344-1294
Volo Bog Surrounding Area
Volo Bog Surrounding Area
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1. Lakes Region Historical Society
817 Main Street-P.O. Box 240
Antioch, Illinois 60002 (847)395-7337
The restored 1892 Antioch grade school accommodates the collection of the Lakes Region Historical Society. Objects in changeable theme exhibits pertain to local lore and history of the Chain of Lakes area.
2. McHenry County Historical Society
6422 Main Street
Union, Illinois 60180 (815)923-2267
McHenry County history illustrated through four large galleries in the 1870 expanded Union grade school. Exhibits contain artifacts which represent home life, farming, industrialism, and the military. Also featured is a restored 1847 log cabin, a 20th century tourist cabin, and an 1895 one-room schoolhouse. The research library contains postcards, diaries, ledgers, photographs, plat maps, abstracts, reference books, and biographical obituaries, and cemetery files.
3. Lake County Museum-Lakewood Forest Preserve
27277 North forest Preserve Drive
Wauconda, Illinois 60084 (847)526-7878
Hands-on exhibits that highlight the history of Lake County. Housed on a former dairy farm in the Lakewood Forest Preserve, over 20,000 objects are rotated on exhibit including horsedrawn vehicles; Native American tools, art, and clothing; farm, household, and light industrial equipment 1840-1975. The Curt Teich Postcard Archives is a national collection of over 350,000 postcard images and illustrates 20th century America. The exhibit "America in a Postcard Mirror" located in the public gallery shows a portion of this collection. The Regional History archives preserves photographs, documents, diaries, ledgers, and maps relating to the history of Lake County.
4. Wauconda Township Historical Society
711 N. Main Street
Wauconda, Illinois 60084 (847)526-9303
Restored 1840's Cook Farmhouse exhibits the history of Wauconda through period room settings and interpretive displays. Interpreters tour visitors through the house, demonstrate weaving and other crafts. Designated historical site by Illinois State Historical Society.
5. Volo Auto Museum & Antique Malls
27582 Volo Village Road
Volo, Illinois 60073 (815)385-3644
6. Gold Pyramid House
37921 Dilley's Road
Wadsworth, Illinois 60083 (847)662-6666
7. Tempel Lipizzans, Tempel Farms
17000 Wadsworth Road
Wadsworth, Illinois 60083 (847)623-7272
8. Cuneo Museum and Gardens
1350 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061 (847)362-3042
| 3803 Waukegan Rd. McHenry |
10308 Main Street Richmond 1908 |
5805 Broadway Richmond 1900 |
1. Muller Chapel (built 1878)
Wilmot & Ringwood Rd.
Johnsburg/McHenry
Widowed Mary Nett Miller built the chapel in 1878 in fulfillment of a promise to the Blessed Mother if she could raise her family "in the fear and love of God". Family services and weddings were held here. (This was built on their farm.)
2. St. John's Church Site (built 1842)
2303 West Church
Johnsburg/McHenry
The site of where this present third church (of Gothic architecture) was of importance to the first exclusively German Catholic Community of Johnsburg who recreated their German roots here. The first structure was a log cabin (1842), and subsequently 2 more structures were built on the same site.
3. Richmond Mill Site (built 1844)
5604 Mill St.
Richmond
The mill, built in 1844, by Cotting and Purdy was 35 x 40', 2 ˝ stories high. It was destroyed by fire in 1925. The plaque is on the site. It was an example of early water-powered, grain and flour mill. It was one of the earliest in the area. It is presently a restaurant.
4. Charles Cotting's #90 (built 1844)
Mill & Main St.
Richmond
When Cotting and his wife came to Richmond, which he helped lay out and plat, there were but 2 log cabins in place. This building with stone foundation was across from his mill and probably was a storeroom at one time. This house is thought to be the oldest grame house in Richmond.
5. Charles Cotting House (built 1865)
East Mill St.
Richmond
Excellent example of a well-to-do merchant's frame home in the Italianate style with an ornate trim including a square cupola. Built in 1865 and was occupied by Cotting until he died in 1883 and in continue family ownership for over 100 years.
6. Sarah Gibbs House (1886)
10313 West St.
Richmond
This unique home is one of few examples of Second Empire architecture in the area with its mansard roof. It has 7 gables which is an innovative variation of this style. Widow Sarah Gibbs had the house built at the age of 71. Her husband, Herman, was a decendent of a Revolutionary War general and was the town's inn-keeper. The stained glass windows across the street in the church were dedicated to Sarah by her granddaughter.
7. Community Church of Richmond(built 1902)
5714 Broadway
Richmond
This turn-of-the-century church is the only original church in Richmond still standing. Beautiful stained glass memorial windows highlight the first settlers and important people of the Village.
