McHenry County Conservation Dist. notes

The McHenry County Conservation District has planned these Summer Explorations programs. Preregistration is required for these free programs

Morning Meanders: Enjoy three hours filled with games, activities, and crafts all based around the theme of the day. Fabulous Flowers on Thursday, June 25; Terrific Trees on Tuesday, July 14; Glorious Grasslands on Thursday, July 16, all from 9 a.m. To noon at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake. A snack is provided. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear good walking shoes, as we will be spending much of the time outdoors. Register for one or more programs. Program is for youth ages 6-7.

Family Fun Free Exploration: Bring the family out to explore the natural marvels of McHenry County from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 27 at Rush Creek Conservation Area, 20501 McGuire Road in Harvard or 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, July 13 at Coral Woods Conservation Area, 7400 Somerset in Marengo. Staff will be available to provide suggestions, answer questions and furnish supplies such as binoculars, field guides or magnifiers that will help you and your family create your own exploration experience. For adults and families of all ages.

Bountiful Bird Hike: Join a bird hike from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 29 at Wiedrich Education Center at Glacial Park, 6316 Hart Road in Ringwood. As the day winds down, the bird activity picks up. Join us for a bird-watching hike through Glacial Park. The group will learn about the birds that live in the park and hopefully see many of them too Binoculars will be provided. For youth, ages 9-13.

Sustainability 101: "What are We Eating?" is scheduled from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 29 at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake. Chef Zak Dolezal of Duke's Alehouse in Crystal Lake will share how he is changing restaurant dining in our area and why it's good for the environment. By building relationships with local farmers, he is producing healthier, locally grown organic meals for his customers. All of this equals to a healthy bottom line, thus helping our community. Meet a couple of the local farmers and enjoy a great evening of learning, including samples For adults 14 years and older.

Nature's Crayons: Youth, ages 5 to 7, can color the world from 10:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday, July 7 at Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, 2411 S. Route 23 in Marengo. We have our box of crayons that we often use to add color to our world. How does nature color our world? Explore the many shades of nature together and may find ourselves surprised. Come dressed for the weather and a walk.

Ladies Night Out: Ready for summer break? Enjoy an evening around a campfire with an optional night hike from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 7 at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake. They will learn about phases of the moon, listen to some folklore, and sip on cool herbal tea while we wait for the moon to rise. Bring a lawn chair. For adults 14 years and older.

Light! Sound! -Nature?: Light and sound pollution can negatively affect our environment as well as the tranquillity of our outdoor experiences. Learn about the similarities and differences between sound and light pollution from 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 10 at Paulsen Shelter, Brookdale Conservation Area, 18410 Route 14 in Woodstock. Discover why it is important to minimize them, what is already being done and how you can help. The program will be split between the introductory presentation and time to enjoy the evening. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. For adults 14 years and older.

Visit the district's Web site at www.MCCDistirct.org to view the programs in greater detail or sign up to receive the quarterly newsletter, "Landscapes." Registration is accepted online, by phone, mail or walk-in at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake, (815) 479-5779.