Kane Co. nature walks
The forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers of every size, shape and color in early May.
• Learn about these native spring flowers with Kane County Forest Preserve District Rangers Tom Stewart and Mandy Morgan on a free guided walk from noon to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 3 at Tyler Creek Forest Preserve, 401 Davis Road in Elgin. They will begin with an introduction to wildflowers at the upper shelter of Tyler Creek and then head down the trail to explore the forest flora. The program is suitable for ages 10 and older. "The display of spring wildflowers is breathtaking," says Nature Programs Manager Valerie Blaine. "These plants are adapted to blooming quickly when the first warm rays of spring sunshine reach the forest floor. They are ephemeral, however, and last only a week or two until the leaves up above begin to shade the ground." See plants like Spring Beauty, Dutchman's breeches, Trout Lily and many others. For information, call (847) 741-8350. Visit www.kaneforest.com.
• The Friends of Trout Park are hosting a wildflower walk at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 3. Experienced guides will lead small groups through the woods and ravines pointing out plants and discussing the natural history of the area. Once known as the Elgin Botanical Gardens, Trout Park has a rich and diverse array of plant life. Flowers such as bloodroot, marsh marigold and skunk cabbage can be viewed. The walk is free and lasts 1-2 hours. Trout Park is located off Route 25 on Trout Park Boulevard and Sherwood Avenue on Elgin's northeast side.
In addition, the Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee will hold its annual native plant sale from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 3 at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. More than 150 species will be available to plant your prairie, woodland or rain garden.
Organic heirloom garden vegetables and herbs from W&M Landcorp Organic Nursery and native trees and shrubs from O'Hana Farms will be for sale, too. Cash and check only; they cannot accept credit cards. For information, call (815) 342-5146 or visit www.theWPPC.org.