Lake County Forest Preserve District marks 50 years

Lake County Forest Preserve District's 50th birthday bash Sunday at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville didn't exactly feature your typical guest list.

Besides community members of all age groups, there was also a red-tailed hawk, a tiny screech owl and a snapping turtle, much to the delight of Emily Lasky, 8, and Alex Lasky, 6.

"We're having so much fun. This is so multigenerational. There's something for everyone here," said the children's grandmother, Betty Hencel of Round Lake.

The district's roots reach back to 1957 and a 3-year-old boy who wanted to go exploring in the woods. When Ethel Untermyer's son, Frank, made his request, she asked a friend about the location of the nearest forest preserve. When she learned Lake County had none, she organized a referendum to create the district that voters approved Nov. 4, 1958.

Fifty years later, children and families now enjoy 56 preserves, more than 125 miles of trails, fishing ponds and lakes, public access to the Fox River, nature and history education programs and events, and three public golf courses.

The district has been celebrating its anniversary with a mobile exhibition trailer that travels throughout the county, as well as the creation of historic signs for six preserves.

Birthday treats also included a giant cupcake, along with 3,000 individual cupcakes. The Johnny Rogers Band, a Buddy Holly tribute band, also performed.

"It's a big party to share our excitement and pride. Just like any 50-year-old, we're looking forward to the next 50 years," said Nan Buckardt, acting director of environmental education and public affairs.

Trivia contests were held throughout the event. Five-year-old Hunter Kregel won a Frisbee and canvas bag for answering that the lake at Independence Grove had once been a gravel pit.

"He's having fun looking at the fish. It's a beautiful day," said his mom, Patsy Kregel of Grayslake.

About 35 volunteers helped with the event, including Janice Aull outfitted as Mother Nature. Boasting a straw hat adorned with butterflies and flowers, she welcomed guests to the party.

"I've been volunteering for the forest preserves for the past ten years. These are wonderful places to visit," she said.