McHenry County Conservation District notes

McHenry County Conservation District invites you to take a photographic journey with professional nature and wildlife photographer Mike MacDonald and view his exhibit "My Experience in the Wilds of Chicago" on display through April 26 at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake.

This exhibit is free and is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

MacDonald celebrates the sublime natural beauty that exists right under our noses in the paradise known as Chicago Wilderness. This exhibit of large canvas prints take you on his journey from a coyote crossing a frozen slough to prairies teeming with wildflowers. His photographs communicate actual experiences from perfect moments in time.

In addition, a special Adult Interest Program will be hosted titled, "Chicago Wilderness: Where I Find Inspiration," from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 15, at Prairieview Education Center.

As a nature photographer, MacDonald's work celebrates the beauty and drama that exists right under our noses. In this program he presents more than 100 digitally projected images from more than 18 sites in the region, talking about the locations and why they are special to him.

Because MacDonald experiences these places as a photographer, it's natural that he also speaks of the photography itself as part of the program, although not on a technical level. His presentation style is fun, quick-paced and lively, reflecting more than 20 years of experience in professional comedy and improvisation.

Finally, an Artist Reception will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. March 30 at Prairieview Education Center.

Locally, Mike's work has been published in Chicago Wilderness Magazine, and nationally in Outdoor Photographer Magazine.

For more information, call Prairieview Education Center at (815) 479-5779 or visit www.MCCDistrict.org.