Bull Valley HOA showcases successful natural area management

The afternoon of Friday, Aug. 15, is an opportunity for homeowners to learn how a homeowners association (HOA) has successfully managed its common areas as natural habitat for years.

This “Talk & Tour” will provide a first-hand look at successful natural area management at the McAndrews Glen subdivision in Bull Valley. It also will include a brief visit to the adjacent Boloria Meadows Nature Preserve. The “Talk & Tour” will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15.

Dennis Dreher, consultant with Geosyntec and volunteer Nature Preserve steward, will lead the tour and discuss elements of successful management of 25 acres of natural area in the McAndrews Glen subdivision.

The subdivision was developed 20 years ago following a conservation design theme with homes clustered within naturalized open space. The natural area, which includes four detention basins, was formally designated as a common area in the plat of subdivision and the approved HOA covenants require long-term ecological stewardship of the area.

The natural area is routinely managed by a contractor hired by the HOA. The management approach focuses on control of invasive species and regular controlled burning.

While the overall appearance and ecological quality of the natural area has improved significantly over time, some ongoing issues with invasive species persist. The tour will visit several representative zones in the natural area as well as the adjacent Nature Preserve. Discussion will address several important topics:

• The role of the HOA in funding and overseeing natural area management.

• Considerations in hiring and overseeing natural area contractors.

• The role of local government in approving effective institutional arrangements, including covenants.

• Effective communication with HOA residents.

• Synergies and opportunities of cooperating with The Land Conservancy and other adjacent landowners.

• Benefits of sound natural area management to stormwater and water quality.

• Cost savings of natural area management vs. turf grass maintenance.

To register, go to tinyurl.com/BMPTourSignup. Directions and parking instructions will be sent to those who have RSVP’d.

The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County's Water & Natural Resources Protection Action Team and the McHenry County Department of Planning and Development host Friday BMP Talks and Tours that showcase some of the exciting Best Management Practices (BMPs) being implemented in McHenry County.