Debt of gratitude

On behalf of the Conservation and Policy Council of the Forest Preserves of Cook County I want to thank the Daily Herald for publishing the excellent editorial praising the founders of the magnificent Forest Preserves of this region. We do indeed owe a debt of gratitude to Jens Jensen and Daniel Perkins for their foresight and vision in developing a plan of regional nature preserves in Cook County way back in 1904. Similarly, we are indebted to the founders of DuPage, Lake and Kane County Forest Preserves.

Collectively, these great preserves provide us with a connection to nature and an escape from the pressures of urban living that the founders envisioned. In this exceptionally challenging time, the forest preserves are an even more precious gift from the founders as we battle a pandemic. It's amazing to think that the first Forest Preserve in the Cook County region acquired in 1916 likely served as a refuge for citizens during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. The natural woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands are timeless.

Over many decades our forest preserves have been a source of tranquility. They have also served as an invaluable connection to nature for people who might otherwise not have that opportunity. As the vegetation changes color, it's hard to imagine more beautiful places to be.

Thank you for recognizing the wisdom and vision of the founders. Thank you, also, for reminding us that we are blessed to be minutes away from some of the greatest urban natural areas in America.

Michael F. DeSantiago

Niles