Forest Preserve District of Cook County

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC) is a governmental agency dedicated to the acquisition, restoration, and management of natural lands within Cook County, Illinois. Established in 1914, the district encompasses approximately 70,000 acres—about 11% of the county's land area—comprising forests, prairies, wetlands, streams, and lakes.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the FPDCC is to protect and preserve natural communities, including prairies, forests, wetlands, rivers, and streams, along with their associated flora and fauna. This is achieved through land acquisition, habitat restoration, and providing educational and recreational opportunities for the public.

Conservation and Education

The district operates six nature centers that offer educational programs for all ages, interpretive trails, and exhibits. These centers serve as hubs for environmental education, fostering a deeper connection between the community and the natural world.

Additionally, the FPDCC manages 22 dedicated nature preserves, ensuring the protection of high-quality conservation resources.

Recreational Facilities

For outdoor enthusiasts, the FPDCC provides various recreational facilities, including:

• 311 Picnic Groves suitable for gatherings and outdoor meals
• 40 Lakes and Ponds managed for fishing and boating activities
• Five Campgrounds offering camping experiences amidst nature
• Three Aquatic Centers providing swimming opportunities
• Ten Golf Courses catering to golfers of all skill levels
• Over 300 miles of marked trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding

Notable Locations

The FPDCC manages several notable locations:

• Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods): Features a 10.4-mile paved bicycle trail and Busse Lake, a 590-acre artificial reservoir
• Palos Forest Preserves: Home to the Palos Trail System, the district's largest multi-trail system with approximately 40 miles of unpaved trails
• Skokie Lagoons: Nature preserve with seven interconnected lagoons totaling 190 acres, offering biking, fishing, boating, and birding
• Swallow Cliff Woods: An 800-acre nature preserve with a 100-foot bluff and 125 limestone stairs, popular for outdoor exercise and sledding

Partnerships

The FPDCC collaborates with various organizations to enhance its offerings:

• Brookfield Zoo: Located within the district, managed by the Chicago Zoological Society under an agreement with the FPDCC
• Chicago Botanic Garden: Situated on district land, managed by the Chicago Horticultural Society with 27 display gardens and five natural habitats

Headquarters and Locations

The headquarters of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County is located in River Forest, Illinois.

Locations:

• River Forest, IL, USA

Through its comprehensive conservation efforts, educational programs, and recreational facilities, the FPDCC plays a vital role in preserving natural spaces and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors in Cook County.