Stay informed about your Lake County Forest Preserves by reading the latest news items below.
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Our Communications & Design division is happy to assist journalists and photo editors with stories, fact checks, photo requests, preserve tours and interviews with our experts. Members of the media may also subscribe to receive our news releases and photo opportunities via email.
Kim Mikus Croke, Media & Community Relations Specialist, office 847-968-3202, cell 224-244-0583, email

@ Daily Herald
Aug 13, 2025 04:13 PM
The Lake County Forest Preserves approved selling 4.7 acres at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for $610,000. The land will add columbaria for cremated remains, extending burial space for veterans and spouses.
Aug 13, 2025 12:45 PM
Lake County Forest Preserves approved creating a new preserve in Winthrop Harbor and expanding Kestrel Ridge near Round Lake. The $8.18M in acquisitions will protect wetlands, forests and open space, expand public access and enhance wildlife habitat.
Aug 12, 2025 11:11 AM
Imelda Gomez found her career path in the Youth Conservation Corps, a paid summer program in the Lake County Forest Preserves. She and 25 students spent the season improving trails, removing invasives, and building skills that may shape their futures
Aug 06, 2025 12:56 PM
The Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville has earned national reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, placing it among the top 3% of U.S. museums. This honor reflects its high standards and engaging exhibits.

R. Scott McNeill
Jul 25, 2025 03:18 PM
Matt Ueltzen, restoration ecology manager at the Lake County Forest Preserves, has been appointed to a new state task force aimed at identifying and protecting legacy trees with ecological, cultural or historic significance across Illinois.
Jul 17, 2025 11:23 AM
Scott Drews spent 12+ hours running all 54.5 miles of the Des Plaines River Trail in one day, through both Cook and Lake counties. With no music, just nature and his wife’s support, the runner tackled the challenge he’d dreamed about for years.

Rebekah Snyder, director of community engagement and partnerships (left); Kristen Seefurth, assistant communications and design manager; Education Manager Matt Mulligan and Facilities Director Dan Stearns
Jul 15, 2025 09:45 AM
The Forest Preserves earned two national awards from NACPRO for innovation in education and outreach. The Ryerson Education Center was honored for its net-zero design, while the cicada campaign was recognized for creative science communication.
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