Hike, Fish, Build with LEGO or Celebrate Father’s Day in Nature During June Forest Preserve Programs

ROMEOVILLE – “Early Bird Hike,” 7-8:30 a.m. Thursday, June 13, at Isle a la Cache Museum. Join an experienced naturalist on a guided hike in search of summer birds along the shores of the Des Plaines River. The free program is for ages 15 and older. Register by Tuesday, June 11, at ReconnectWithNature.org or call 815-886-1467.

MONEE TOWNSHIP – “Take Me Fishing,” 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, June 14-Sunday, June 16, at Monee Reservoir. Sample the angling action during three free fishing days sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Fishing licenses aren’t required during this special weekend. The Forest Preserve has added its own fishing incentives: Friday, a free one-hour boat rental voucher; Saturday, a box of night crawlers; and Sunday, one free fishing pole rental. Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program.

CRETE TOWNSHIP – “LEGO Gone Wild,” 1-3 p.m. Friday, June 14, at Plum Creek Nature Center. Participants will explore hidden habitats in the preserve with binoculars, bug boxes, insect nets and more. After exploring, the kids will recreate the habitat using LEGO bricks. The free program is for ages 6 and older. Register by Wednesday, June 12, at ReconnectWithNature.org or call 708-946-2216.

MONEE TOWNSHIP – “Midnight Madness,” 7 p.m.-midnight, Saturday, June 15, at Monee Reservoir. The gates will stay open until midnight for a nighttime of fishing fun. Anglers are encouraged to bring a flashlight and bug repellent. The concessions stand will be open. Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program.

MONEE/CRETE TOWNSHIPS – “Father’s Appreciation Day,” 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, June 16, at Monee Reservoir and noon-4 p.m. at Plum Creek Nature Center. Dads can celebrate not having to do anything on Father’s Day but enjoy a day in nature. Dads will get a container of free bait at Monee Reservoir, and they can walk the trails, camp overnight or explore the nature center at Plum Creek. Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program.

MONEE TOWNSHIP – “Fishing for Trash,” 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, June 18-Sunday, June 23, at Monee Reservoir. Keep the preserve free of trash, which can harm wildlife. Stop by the concessions window, pick up a trash bag and gloves, and fill the bag with any trash you collect. Bring the bag back for a free gift. Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program.