Volo Bog State Natural Area notes
For information and to make reservations, call (815) 344-1294 or Ameritech For relay for the hearing impaired, call (800) 526-0844, or e-mail dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. All programs are free. The visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
Of Bogs & Books: Of Bogs & Books is a book discussion group that meets on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Volo Bog State Natural Area's Visitor Center Library. Adults gather over morning coffee and snacks to review environmental, outdoor and natural history literature. Reservations are requested.
• Jan. 12: "The World Without Us" by Alan Weisman addresses what happens when people are no longer present in on Earth. From ancient ruins to abandoned lots, he explores how quickly nature reclaims the turf.
• Feb. 9: "Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder" by Richard Louv was first discussed in 2005. The group will revisit the book in order to invite a broader audience. The discussion will continue into the afternoon with guest speakers and a forum to include public officials, educators, parents, grandparents and others.
Astronomy nights: Astronomy nights, hosted by the Lake County Astronomical Society take place from 8:30 to 10 p.m. the third Friday of the month at Volo Bog State Natural Area.
A business meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. followed by an indoor presentation at 8:30 p.m. and viewing if skies are clear at about 9:30 p.m.
The public is welcome. Memberships are available. For club information, visit the Web site www.lcas-astronomy.org/.
You Be the Judge: Guests can cast their vote through Jan. 11 in Volo Bog's 21st annual photo contest and come to Winterfest Jan. 13 to see the winners.
Guided tours: Guided tours of Volo Bog are offered at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Volo Bog is Illinois' only remaining open-water quaking bog.
Public tours are open to individuals, families and small groups without reservations. Groups of 10 or more are asked to call (815) 344-1294 for special arrangements. Tours run about one hour.