Raceway Woods an asset for community

I went for a walk with my parents, daughter and a friend at Raceway Woods. I grew up in Wisconsin, and we always did fun things outside as a family. My parents were astonished that this huge place for nature existed so close to where I live. Feeling that nature conservation was more prominent in Wisconsin, they were truly amazed that an area like this was set aside among the sprawl of subdivisions.

I am in the process of recovering from surgery. To be able to walk among the woods and prairie truly helps. My friend told me of a story of a man she met at Raceway Woods. He was recently diagnosed with diabetes and was out walking to improve his health. The natural areas in our township have likewise offered a connection for my 3-year-old daughter. We do nature walks to see prairie plants, butterflies, deer, birds and animal tracks, which we read about in her books. We talk about the importance of fire and problems from invasive plants.

I am certain these topics go over her head but she does understand that these nature areas will be for future generations like hers. I know one day she will also understand the benefit these areas provide in recharging the aquifers for the water that we drink.

I would like to thank Dundee Township, the township park district and the forest preserve district of Kane County, along with all of the volunteers who invest their time in making these places such a wonderful escape. I hope that these areas continue to be managed to support the diversity that nature offers. If the economy and life has you feeling down or stressed, try taking a walk at one of the beautiful open space areas or forest preserves.

David Poweleit

Carpentersville