MCCD to hold OAKtober Planting Party

Celebrate fall with an OAKtober Planting Party, a special restoration event with McHenry County Conservation District.

Bring back the Big Woods of McHenry County. There will be more than 300 oak trees to plant in the heart of the Marengo Ridge woodland, and you can help. Bring your family, friends and neighbors and join in on McHenry County Conservation District's OAKtober planting party from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, 2411 N. Route 23, Marengo.

At this free drop-in event, you and your family and friends can be part of history, as the district works to restore the oak ecosystems that once covered over a third of the county's land mass. Travel along a half-mile trail, stopping at stations where you can learn more about our keystone species, play an oak-themed game, or create a craft before arriving at the restoration zone. Additionally, a limited quantity of 12- to 20-inch oak trees will be for sale by The Land Conservancy of McHenry County for $15 each or two for $25, cash or check only, at the event to take home and plant. Stop in any time or come for the whole afternoon. Bring a picnic to enjoy the afternoon. Snacks and acorn cookies will be available for purchase. Be a part of this historic savanna's fresh start.

All ages are welcome. Registration is not required. For more information, call Prairieview Education Center, (815) 479-5779 or visit www.MCCDistrict.org.