Areas to be developed for public use announced

The McHenry County Conservation District has the opportunity to develop and restore a number of new properties within the next five years.

Over the next 10 months, the district will be developing master plans for five sites to allow for future public access on these properties.

The process involves hydrology analysis, natural resource inventory, permitting and public involvement to create the best balance of public amenities and protection of high-quality natural areas.

Public viewing and opportunities to provide input are part of the process and dates will be announced on the district's Web site and via the media. Typical improvements may include an access road, parking lot, picnic shelter, bridge, scenic views, interpretive signage and trail systems.

The five master plans scheduled for this year are:

• Bailey's Woods, near Hebron, 584 acres, located near Johnson Road and Route 173

• High Point, Alden Township, 253 acres, east of Reese Road, west of Wright Road and south of Hebron Road

• Kishwaukee Headwaters Conservation Area, Woodstock, 146 acres, south of Route 14, east of Dean Street

• Lake in the Hills Fen/Rothschild parcel in LITH, 198 acres, east of Randall Road, north of Miller Road

• Nippersink Canoe Base, Spring Grove, 347 acres, east of Route 12, north of Sunset Road.