Accomplishments

Land Acquisition and Planning: Ronan Rark Expansion

In August 2009, Openlands Land Preservation  transferred to the City of Chicago a 1.65-acre property, helping to expand this important riverfront park in a culturally diverse neighborhood. 

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Conservation Easements: Old Wayne Golf Course

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County wanted to buy Old Wayne Golf Course, linking two forest preserves next to the site with a bike trail. But the owner wanted to keep the land. So the district asked Openlands Land Preservation to find a solution.

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Conservation Easements: Raceway Woods

A resident in unincorporated West Dundee was worried about the extensive development encroaching on the land he inherited from his father. Featuring woodlands, savannas, restored prairie, several fens, and a nine-acre stream corridor, the site was listed with the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.

Read more: Conservation Easements: Raceway Woods

Land Acquisition and Planning: Kishwaukee River Meander

Openlands collaborated with the Boone County Conservation District and other organizations to develop A Vision of the Kishwaukee River Water Trail, which details the location of a water trail system originating in McHenry County and continuing to the confluence of the Kishwaukee and Rock rivers.

Read more: Land Acquisition and Planning: Kishwaukee River Meander

Land Acquisition and Planning: Black Crown Marsh

Expanding Black Crown Marsh represents a twofold victory for Openlands Land Preservation: the purchase not only protects an area designated critical by the Northeastern Illinois Wetland Protection Project but also demonstrates the importance of partnerships in regional conservation efforts.

Read more: Land Acquisition and Planning: Black Crown Marsh