Forest Preserve Programs Feature History, Hikes and Owl Art

The Forest Preserve District of Will County offers a wide variety of programs year-round. Here are some of the upcoming offerings:

PARK FOREST – “Focus on the Forest Preserve District of Will County,” 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard. The program is part of the annual gathering of Friends of Thorn Creek Woods. Ralph Schultz, the Forest Preserve’s chief operating officer and longtime member of Thorn Creek Management Commission, will present information on the Forest Preserve District’s facilities and programs offered throughout Will County. Free; ages 12 or older.

ROMEOVILLE – “Living History Encounter,” noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3, Isle a la Cache Museum. Meet Pierre, a French Voyageur from the 1700s, who loves to share his stories about the fur trade. Our 18^th-century Trader’s Cabin will be open with Pierre as your guide. A special focus will be on wool blankets. Learn the many uses of common wool blankets during the fur trade era. Free; all ages.

CHANNAHON – “Morning Movies,” 9-11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center. Enjoy warm coffee and the informative film, “Prairie Tides – Discover Illinois & Michigan Canal History.” The film, distributed by the Canal Corridor Association, will open your eyes to the history and rich culture of our area and the I&M Canal. The film will be followed by a naturalist-led discussion. Free; all ages.

PLAINFIELD – “Migratory Bird Hike,” 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve. Take a 1.5-mile guided hike in search of amazing waterfowl, soaring eagles and beautiful songbirds. Bring binoculars; a limited supply will be available for loan. Meet at the visitor center at the Renwick Road entrance. Free; ages 7 or older. Register by Thursday, Nov. 7, at ReconnectWithNature.org or call 815-886-1467.

ROMEOVILLE – “Cork and Craft Owls,” 12:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, Isle a la Cache Museum. Create an owl painting with Isle a la Cache as your muse and artist Crystal Simpelo as your instructor. Bring your own wine to sip during the program. Canvases and paints will be provided. Ages 21 or older; $10 per person. Register by Thursday, Nov. 7, at ReconnectWithNature.org or call 815-886-1467.