Lake County Forest Preserve BioBlitz Biodiversity

What is biodiversity?

Biodiversity, short for “biological diversity,” refers to the variety of life forms on Earth.

Biodiversity keeps our air and water clean, regulates our climate, and provides all plants and animals (including humans) with food, shelter, clothing, medicine, and other useful products.

The Midwest was once covered by natural communities such as prairies, savannas, woodlands and wetlands. Human development of the land and non-native, invasive species have greatly affected these communities. Only fragments of the original habitats have survived to current day, jeopardizing biodiversity in Lake County.

The lands surrounding Lake County contain some of the greatest biodiversity of native animal and plant species in the world.

Native species are those that have evolved in this region of the country. The species in Lake County, Illinois make up some of the rarest natural communities on Earth.

At the Lake County Forest Preserves, we are working to preserve and restore the habitats that our native wildlife and plants need to survive and thrive. This way we all can enjoy the many wonderful creatures that live all around us.

One of our biggest challenges is to learn as much as we can about the part we play in this complex “web of life”. By learning more about our role in the natural world, we can create a more responsible society that will help protect our planet’s natural resources.

What can you do to help biodiversity?

You can play an active part in looking after Lake County’s biodiversity in your own backyard or in your Preserves.

IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

You can experience biodiversity in your own backyard by creating a welcoming environment for wildlife.

ATTRACT NATIVE BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES – Here are tips on the right species to plant to attract native birds and butterflies to your garden.

CREATE A NATIVE BACKYARD HABITAT – Here are Tips on how to create wildlife habitat in your own backyard.

PROTECT WILDLIFE FROM PETS – Many songbirds and other native species are killed each year by dogs and cats. Keep your pets indoors, on a leash, and on marked trails.

IN YOUR PRESERVES

Responsible environmental stewardship in natural areas can help contribute to biodiversity conservation.

PEST AND WEED CONTROL – Here are tips on how to identify and remove non-native, invasive species.

POLLUTION – Pollution is one of the many threats to our native biodiversity. Pick up litter while you are in natural areas. This is an easy way to make a difference!

TREE PLANTING – Visit the Lake County Species Database to help you choose the right native tree for the right location.

BECOME A CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER – Grab some work gloves and join other volunteers to improve some of Lake County's natural areas. Restoration workdays happen every weekend at Forest Preserves throughout Lake County. No prior experience is necessary and all ages are invited.