A newsletter published seasonally by Lake Forest Open ... Winter... · It also has little pea-like...

Traditional, Sculpted and Nativeby Frank Mariani, member of Lake Forest Open Lands' Board of Governors

Grass Roots

above The yard of staff members Jill and Ryan London demonstrates the beauty and function of native landscaping in an urban setting.

A newsletter published seasonally by Lake Forest Open Lands Association, an independent, non-profit organization

an array of conservation groups, civic bodies and institutions of higher learning. Mariani Landscape is proud to be partnering with Lake Forest Open Lands on the forefront of re-greening private landscapes. A private landscape can be visually attractive, meet the parameters of a traditional garden and support the local environment and wildlife with native plants. My brother, John Mariani is moved by this venture, noting that, “The landscape industry is the one entity that has the greatest opportunity by far, to create a positive change, improving the environment in how we plant and reconstruct landscapes.”

This partnership has led to a formal native garden plan for the Barbara Eldridge Classroom for Environmental Education at Mellody Farm Nature Preserve. The building is part of the

Prairies, savannas, woodlands, wetlands and 12 miles of walking trails. That is Lake Forest Open Lands. Over 800 acres of local native landscapes. Each open space has plants and wildlife living in harmony in its own unique ecosystem. The benefits of native landscaping are boundless when you consider present and future generations. Native plants belong here, they want to grow here. They are hardy, acclimated and support local wildlife. Hardy means easy maintenance, less watering and improved air quality. Acclimated means strong, healthy plants that will grace your landscape for many years without the need for pesticides. And local wildlife can be a joy to watch, making an open space vibrant, literally filled with life.

Lake Forest Open Lands Association has conserved our local landscapes for over 46 years and during that time has partnered with

issue #80

Winter

14register at

www.lfola.org

summer camps

pages 4 - 5

summer job opportunities

and volunteer work days

page 6

Lake Forest Open Lands Association • 350 North Waukegan Road • Lake Forest, IL 60045 • p.847.234.3880 • f.847.234.3963 • www.LFOLA.org

continued on page 8

Lake Forest Open Lands Association: Partnering on Native Re-greening of Private Landscapes

lancscape concept plan

2 • land is our legacy

some good examples of native landscape plant choices that

you may want to consider for your landscape needs:

Blackhaw Viburnam (Viburnum prunifolium): A woody, tall plant which can be used to anchor a garden. This native has horizontal branching, which meet the trunk at a 90 degree angle. This branching can help soften hard vertical lines. It has nice sized clusters of small white flowers in the spring. In the fall, its glossy leaves can turn a rich red or purple and the birds love the fruit that lasts through the winter, which can also be used to make jam. With a single trunk it makes a wonderful focal point and with multiple trunks can be used en masse or to create a hedge.

Queen of the Prairie (Filipendula rubra): A wonderful plant that can be used as an accent or focal point. This native has unique textured, crinkled foliage. It can be up to three feet tall and fills a space nicely. This sends up stems with dense clusters of white flowers that start out as a golden pearl bud, light and airy and, at the same time, rich and full.

Blue Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis): A more traditional plant that is perfect for garden beds. This native has wonderful blue-green foliage in little groups of three, that stays attractive all season, until the first frost. It also has little pea-like flowers on long stalks that show up in late spring and last for almost a month. In the late summer and fall, the fruit pods remain for more visual interest.

lake forest open lands

office

re-greening of landscapes

winter 2014 grass roots • 3

Our Mellody Farm Nature Preserve campus will unveil an exciting new model for native landscaping in 2014. The native garden at the Barbara Eldridge Classroom for Environmental Education will be a first; a place that demonstrates how formalized landscapes found in traditional architectural settings can be both beautiful and benefit our local ecosystems. The garden will allow visitors to see new ideas that help to re-green our conservation community.

Blue Chip Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Chip'): This evergreen offers year round color and texture and is an exceptional ground cover. It stays low and fills in densely to truly cover the ground with its steely blue-green tone. It can also produce dark blue-black berries adding additional color, interest and food for wildlife.

eldridge classroom

Education Programs at Lake Forest Open LandsLake Forest Open Lands’ calendar of exciting events for children, teens and families...Register online at www.LFOLA.org.

SUMMER 2014

CENTER FOR CONSERVATION LEADERSHIP

Center for Conservation Leadership Certificate Program

June 11th - June 29th

Students entering 9th or 10th grade in the fall of 2014

The Certificate Program offers environmental education, leadership training and community service in a year long field-based program.

High School Internship ProgramJune 16th - July 25th

Students completing the CCL Certificate Program

The High School Intershipship Program incorporates continuing environmental education, enhanced leadership development and a

week long service learning trip in a 6 week summer internship.

For questions and applications, please call 847.234.8388 or visitwww.centerforconservationleadership.org.

Eco-Trekkers CampMonday - Friday

9:00 - 11:45 a.m.

July 28th - August 1st

4 or 5 year old children(Limited to 12 campers)

Each day, campers gather under the trees to read a nature story and set out on foot to continue a story time adventure of their

own. Through crafts, exploration and games, campers will learn

about the critters that call Lake Forest home.

Members: $225Non-members: $290

4 AND 5 YEAR OLDS

Eco-Discovery CampMonday - Friday

12:15 - 3:00 p.m.

July 28th - August 1st

Entering 1st or 2nd grade in the fall of 2014

(Limited to 12 campers)

Campers search for a mystery nature box that holds clues to

activities. Through art, music and games campers discover the

treasures around them, which inspires creativity and exploration

of the natural world.


1ST AND 2ND GRADERS

winter 2014 | education programs


Sensing the SeasonThursday, February 20th

12:30 - 2:00 p.m.

Get your eyes, nose, fingers and toes ready to explore the winter

wonders of Mellody Farm Nature Preserve! Take a short, guided walk using all of your

senses with one of our naturalists and learn about the hidden secrets of winter through fun activities and

games. Make sure to dress for the weather as the entire

program will be outdoors. Boots and snowpants are a must!

Ages: 3 -6 years old with an adultMembers: $7/child

Non-members: $10/child

"The Mitten" Thursday, January 9th

12:30 - 2:00 p.m.

Cozy up as we read the classic children’s book, The Mitten, and join us for an adventure to help the furry characters find their homes. Learn about how these

animals survive and visit a bear’s den! Finally, warm up with a cup

of hot cocoa and cookies while listening to another wintery tale. Dress for our outdoor adventure!

Ages: 3 -6 years old with an adultMembers: $7, Non-members: $10/child

Little Trekkers Mondays, January 27th-March 10th

(No class February 17th)1 - 3:00 p.m.

Set out on an outdoor adventure to discover the wonders of the winter world. Become a nature detective and search for signs of

the elusive flying squirrel, winter birds and animal tracks left in the snow. Warm up inside to enjoy a story and create a nature craft.

This fun program is for the curious child who likes to

explore and make discoveries.

Children ages 4 and 5Members: $150, Non-members: $215

WINTER 2014

1/9

1//27 - 3/10

2/20

12/4

11/6

Enroll in a Lake Forest Open Lands’ Camp TodayRegister online at www.LFOLA.org. or call 847.234.3880 x21 to register. Camp registration for members begins January 6th, non-members January 13th. All programs meet at 350 North Waukegan Road, unless otherwise noted.

SUMMER 2014 AT LAKE FOREST OPEN LANDS

Eco-Explorer CampMonday - Friday

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

July 7th - July 18th

Entering 3rd grade in the fall of 2014

(Limited to 13 campers)

Using an old map to guide them, campers will explore different Lake Forest area

ecosystems each day. Through hands on activities, nature

exploration, games and crafts campers learn about and become immersed in the prairie, wetland, savanna,

forest, lakeshore and more. After exploring a different

habitat each day, campers get their “passports” stamped and

mark their discoveries on the map. A final trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo rounds out the experience.


Eco-Adventure CampMonday - Friday

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Session One: June 9th - June 27th

Session Two: July 7th - July 25th

Entering 4th or 5th grade in the fall of 2014

(Limited to 24 campers per session)

This treasured summer experience is the signature of

Lake Forest Open Lands’ education programming.

Through three fun-filled weeks, campers explore the wild places of Lake Forest in canoes, kayaks, on bicycles and foot. Participants

learn wilderness and team building skills through positive outdoor experiences. Field trips

and an overnight camp out complete the experience.


3RD GRADERS 4TH AND 5TH GRADERS 6TH AND 7TH GRADERS

Eco-Expedition CampMonday - Friday

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Session One: June 9th - June 20th

Session Two: July 7th - July 18th

Entering 6th or 7th grade in the fall of 2014


This 6th and 7th grade summer experience is for kids with a love

of nature and a sense of adventure. This camp’s expeditions will take campers beyond the borders of

our preserves to explore our region while building outdoor leadership skills. Campers will work as a team on canoe, kayak,

bike and fishing trips. This camp culminates in a three day, two night camping trip to Devil's Lake in Baraboo, Wisconsin.


register today | summer 2014


8TH GRADERS

Eco-Odyssey CampMonday - Friday

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

July 21st - August 1st

Entering 8th grade in the fall of 2013


Our most cumulative summer experience for 8th graders is not to be missed! Outdoor expeditions

will be kicked up a notch as campers travel beyond the borders

of Lake Forest to study hidden environmental gems, learn how to

live off the land and test their outdoor skills. This program will

allow campers to develop their own land ethic as they hone in on their individual interests and creativity.

A two night, three day camping trip as well as some late pickups

will allow for maximum exploration.


Join Us in the Preserves!For more information on volunteer work days and summer jobs with Lake Forest Open Lands visit www.LFOLA.org.

Join our land management staff at a public work day to help maintain

our high quality preserves. Volunteers will participate by

cutting, hauling or burning brush. Wear appropriate clothing and

footwear. Work gloves provided.

Winter Volunteer Work Days

volunteer work days | summer jobs


SUMMER jobs AT LAKE FOREST OPEN LANDS

Camp CounselorsJune - August

Applications are currently being accepted for paid camp counselor positions for the

Eco-camps and the Center for Conservation Leadership's three

week summer experience. Interested candidates must be 18 years or older and have an

avid interest in leading outdoor camps, ecology and conservation.

For a detailed job description and application, visit www.LFOLA.org

or call Karen Lewis at 847.482.1928 x22.

COUNSELORS SEASONAL EDUCATOR

Restoration EcologyJune 9th - August 1st

For students 17 or older with an interest in

environmental science

Applications are currently being accepted for an 8 week paid

internship. The experience is designed to teach local ecology

through habitat restoration, environmental education

and scientific data collection.

For a detailed job description and application visit www.LFOLA.org

or email Michael Hahn at [email protected].

SUMMER INTERNS

Environmental EducationApril - November

This full time position offers an opportunity to gain professional

experience in the field of environmental education.

Responsibilities include leading outdoor field studies for school age students and assisting with the Lake Forest Open Lands'

summer camps.

For a detailed job description and application, visit www.LFOLA.org

or call Karen Lewis at 847.482.1928 x22.

Saturday, February 1st

west skokie Nature Preserve9:00 a.m. - noon

Trail access and parking are located off of Westleigh Road about a 1/4 mile

east of Waukegan Road.

Saturday, march 1st

middlefork Farm Nature Preserve9:00 a.m. - noon

Trail access and parking are located at the Elawa Farm parking lot,

1401 Middlefork Drive (located half mile off of Waukegan Road on

Middlefork Drive).

Additional information can be found at www.LFOLA.org or by contacting

our Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected].

intern profile: erika rodriguezA native of the northwest Chicago suburbs, Erika attended Lake Forest College and graduated with a double major in Environmental Studies and Sociology & Anthropology. Her involvement with Lake Forest Open Lands Association began as in intern in 2009 and 2010. As a student leader of the college’s environmental group, Erika maintained a connection with Lake Forest Open Lands by bringing college students to volunteer with our land management team. In 2012 and 2013, Erika was a counselor for the Center for Conservation Leadership and will return this summer to guide our future conservation leaders. Currently, Erika is the assistant for the Environmental Studies Program at Lake Forest College and sustains the link between the college and the Lake Forest Open Lands Association.

2/1

3/1

Bagpipes & BonfireSunday, September 28th

4:00 - 7:00 p.m.Middlefork Farm Nature Preserve

APRIL

Renew your membership today!Lake Forest Open Lands' membership runs from

5/1 through 4/30.

Did you know if you walk your dog in a Lake Forest Open Lands'

preserve you must be a member at the Maple Mob level or higher?

Volunteer Work Days Saturday, May 3rd

9:00 a.m. - noon Location to be determined

Saturday, May 10th

9:00 a.m. - noonChicago River Day at

Skokie River Nature Preserve

5/3 & 5/10

2014 calendar of events


2014 Lake Forest Open Lands' Calendar of Member EventsVisit www.LFOLA.org for complete information on our events.

MAYFEBRUARY

4/27"The Play Out"Sunday, April 27th

1 - 4:00 p.m.Mellody Farm Nature Preserve

Join us for a complimentary day of unstructured nature activities!

Perfect for families with school age children.

Cattails & CocktailsFriday, May 16th

6:00 - 8:30 p.m.Mellody Farm Nature Preserve

Hosted by the Associate Board of Lake Forest Open Lands.

5/16

MAY

8/7

AUGUST

Flight of the Passenger Pigeon

Thursday, February 20th

7:00 - 9:00 p.m.Greenbelt Cultural Center

Lake Forest Open LandsAnnual MeetingWednesday, May 14th

5:30 p.m.

Go Native! Plant Sale Saturday, May 18th

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.Mellody Farm Nature Preserve

Pre-orders will be available online at www.LFOLA.org.

5/18

Volunteer Work Day Saturday, May 17th

9:00 a.m. - noonAnnual Garlic Mustard Pull

at McCormick Ravine

5/17

DECEMBER

Story Time With SantaSaturday, December 6th

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.Mellody Farm Nature Preserve

12/6

Lake Forest Day ParadeWednesday, August 6th

Meet at 9:30 a.m.Parade starts at 10:00 a.m.

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

9/28

Volunteer Work Day Saturday, February 1st

9:00 a.m. - noonWest Skokie Nature Preserve

MARCH

Volunteer Work Day Saturday, March 1st

9:00 a.m. - noonMiddlefork Farm Nature Preserve

SEPTEMBER

Swinging Bridge 8K Trail Run

Sunday, September 21st

8:00 a.m. - noon

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

Volunteer Work Days Saturday, October 4th

9:00 a.m. - noon

Saturday, November 1st

9:00 a.m. - noon

Locations to be determined

Volunteer Work Day Saturday, December 6th

9:00 a.m. - noonLocation to be determined

2/1

Volunteer Work Day Saturday, September 13th

9:00 a.m. - noonNational Beach Clean Up Day

McCormick Ravine

Sample NameSample Street AddressSample City, SS Sample Zip

In This Issue

Summer Camp

Registration

350 North Waukegan Road Lake Forest, IL 60045 847.234.3880www.LFOLA.org

non-profit org. u.s. postage

paidlake forest, ilpermit no. 363

Traditional, Sculpted and Nativecontinued from page 1

multiple seasons of interest. Joe pye weed can make a stunning focal point with its profusion of blooms. Phlox, asters and climbing roses fill garden beds and trellises with color and texture. The list goes on with ninebark, coneflower, a variety of grasses and even a native juniper.

This native garden is a work in progress. The hardscapes are complete and the plantings are planned for spring. Visit the newly restored Barbara Eldridge Classroom to learn more about habitat preservation and restoration, and to see the innovative and exciting ways Mariani Landscape has natively “greened” this open space.

Armour estate gatehouse and entryway complex. The architecture is Italian Renaissance; traditional, formal and of historic value. The goal in designing this garden is to create a native landscape, including hardscapes, that are complementary to the architecture. Walkways, terraces and a formal framework satisfy the desire for a manicured, refined design, with plant choices that embrace the local native habitats. This is not the stereotypical wildflower garden many associate with the term “native planting.” It is a well-designed sculpture using native, non-hybridized plants with a refined behavior, yet in a traditional manner. The Barbara Eldridge Classroom garden will give visitors the opportunity to see for themselves how lovely a native garden can be when designed with a formal setting in mind. You can see details on the concept plan (pages 2 and 3) created by Mariani Landscape Architect, Seth Drier.

John and the design team use a palette of native plants in their designs, each plant meeting specific needs of height, texture and color. Shrubs like red-twig dogwood offer

A stunning purple aster will lend interest to a native garden.

board of directorsChairmanMark T. AhernPresidentJohn W. SentellVice PresidentsCarrie L. SheaMartha SimpsonVice President and TreasurerThomas J. Duckworth SecretaryGeorge M. Covington DirectorsMarion CartwrightNancy D. ClemensSusan M. Franzetti Gail T. HodgesWillard M. HunterCathy McGowan Kristin Ryan, ex officioTimm R. ReynoldsMelanie K. Rummelboard of governorsSteven H. BaerSteven D. BarnhartStephen M. BartramKatherine BelcherMargaret S. BenjaminCharles C. BowenCatherine B. CarolinEdward K. ChandlerCharles F. Clarke Jr.Sage Lansing DePree John H. DickCharenton DrakeWillard S. EvansJonathan S. Flusser Sr.Melissa L. FranklinGay GeorgiMelissa GoltraJulie M. GreeneHarry GriffithStephanie F. HarrisMary N. HoffmanAlison H. KohlmeyerEdward A. KovasKim MaddenFrank MarianiMargot F. MartinoEdmund R. McGlynnDavid L. MooreLois MorrisonDennis R. NyrenPaula L. PreschlackAndrew M. RosenfieldKate SackmanAmy L. SchuetzMarion S. SearleThomas C. Sheffield IIIRobin P. StuartCheryl W. SullivanT. Sands ThompsonSophie TwichellCharles Walgreen William T. White IIISusan P. Wright

life directorsClarissa H. ChandlerSuzanne S. DixonJamee J. FieldJean McB. GreeneMargaret HartJohn S. LillardHoward B. Simpson

A newsletter published seasonally by Lake Forest Open ... Winter... · It also has little pea-like...

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