'Birds of Northeastern Illinois' exhibit on display at Lost Valley center

The McHenry County Conservation District invites you to view "Birds of Northeastern Illinois," a nature photography exhibit on display, through July 31 at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood. An artist reception will be held 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 12. This exhibit is free and is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

Nature photographer Marty Hackl presents a selection of his works featuring birds of our region. These stunning photographs capture the beauty of birds, from the grace of their flight to the brilliance of their plumage. Photography for him also has become a tool to engage people, first to become familiar with the birds and other wildlife around them, then to feel a sense of stewardship and responsibility through understanding the importance of preserving habitats, and even in creating new ones in urban and suburban environments.

After moving to McHenry County about 10 years ago, Hackl began photographing birds as a means of identifying the enormous numbers and variety of them he was seeing in his back yard. He quickly became an avid birder, and as his knowledge of birds grew, so did his skill at photographing them. What started as a hobby turned into a passion, and from a passion into a mission to help others also learn about the abundance and beauty of wildlife that surrounds us. In addition to being a professional musician, he is an architectural historian, building contractor and tradesman specializing in historic preservation. He volunteers with the conservation district at the McConnell Farmstead and as a nature photographer. Tap into his expertise for free at the "Backyard Birding and Photography" program from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 9.

For information, contact Prairieview Education Center at (815) 479-5779 or visit MCCDistrict.org.