McHenry County Conservation District notes

McHenry County Conservation District Board is looking for input from residents on their recreational needs by offering an online survey linked to the district's Web site at www.MCCDistrict.org.

The survey is one of the methods being used to gather data in conjunction with the district's comprehensive master plan project.

"This survey will assist planning objectives and guide future management decisions as we look at prioritizing site openings and adding amenities," said Elizabeth Kessler, executive director.

"The survey aims to identify residents' needs in reference to future sites, programs, facilities and recreational preferences."

In addition, four community workshops will be held in early October, where the public can join in a focus group-type setting and share their views and opinions.

The workshops are scheduled from 7 to 8:30 p.m.:

• Oct. 2: MCCD Brookdale Administrative Office, 18410 Route 14, Woodstock.

• Oct. 3: the Algonquin Township Offices, 3702 Route 14, Crystal Lake.

• Oct. 10: Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake.

• Oct. 9: Glacial Park Conference Center, 6316 Harts Road, Ringwood.

Currently, the Conservation District maintains more than 20,000 acres of open space. Twenty-five sites are open to the public, including four educational facilities, 50 miles of biking and hiking trails, seven camping sites, 16 fishing locations and 14 picnic shelters available to reserve.

Hard copies of the survey are available at the district's main office, Prairieview Education Center and the Research Field Station in Glacial Park. For details, call (815) 338-6223.