August 20, 2008 7:49 PM parks open at 7:00 AM and close 1/2 hour after sunset Overcast 81 F (27 C) Wind From the Southeast at 8 MPH
	The Winnebago County Forest Preserves serve as resources for many formal and informal environmental educational experiences. While the District is involved in educational programs, programs are staffed by other organizations working under agreements with the District. In addition, the District's administrative staff works with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Illinois EPA, Natural Land Institute, Illinois Nature Preserves Commissions, local colleges and universities, and most importantly, volunteers in coordinating additional environmental programs for the public. Volunteers contribute substantial amounts of time and money toward environmental education at District facilities. Prospective volunteers are urged to contact the organization of their interest for further information.
	EDUCATION PROGRAMS
	Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden At Klehm Forest Preserve, the Northern Illinois Botanical Society (NIBS) provides educational and interpretive programs relating to horticulture. NIBS was organized with a mission to establish and staff a horticultural center, programs and activities for the benefit of the public and for charitable, educational and scientific purposes related to horticulture. The Forest Preserve District and NIBS have developed an arboretum and botanic garden on the preserve. Further program information may be obtained by contacting the Northern Illinois Botanical Society, Inc., at (815) 965-8146. http://www.klehm.org Macktown Historic District At Macktown Forest Preserve, the Rockton Township Historical Society and the Macktown Living History Education Center provide interpretive programs for the two remaining historical structures of what was once the town of Pecatonic. The area around the Stephen Mack Home and the Whitman Trading Post is designated a National Historical District. Both buildings have been restored as historic museums. The Mack House and the Whitman Trading post are open for special events throughout the year and for tours by appointment. http://www.macktownlivinghistory.com Sand Bluff Bird Observatory Colored Sands Forest Preserve provides a unique setting for people interested in bird study. For over 30 years, a Master Bird Bander, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, has conducted an ongoing investigation into bird migration. Over 200,000 birds have been banded. Banding allows for close observation of numerous birds. Many volunteers assist in this study and are always interested in providing interpretive information for groups who visit the preserve. The station is open to the public for tours and observation on Saturday mornings 8am - 12pm April through October. Call 629-2671 to confirm. Severson Dells Nature Center At Severson Dells Forest Preserve, the Severson Dells Nature Center provides staff to conduct interpretive programs for this 369-acre preserve. The Vistor's Center contains a small museum, auditorium, library, and bookstore for the general public. The Center is open 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1:00-4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Volunteer naturalists assist the professional staff in providing unique activities and interpretive information. Persons interested are welcome to join the Foundation and receive a quarterly newsletter listing activities and scheduled programs at Severson Dells. For further information call 815-335-2915. http://www.seversondells.org
	© 2008 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District