McHenry County Conservation District offers virtual program on evergreens
Learn about the plants and wildlife of McHenry County with a virtual "Lost Valley Nature Detective" adventure.
Visit the McHenry County Conservation District's website at MCCD.me/E-Learning to download this month's activity filled with things you can do at home as well as highlights what you might see the next time you search the wild spaces of Glacial Park!
In December, the topic will be "Winter Trees." Even though in the colder months most trees lose their leaves, some trees keep their needlelike leaves all year long!
Evergreens may not be native to McHenry County, but you can still find them at the local conservation sites. Check out some fun ways to identify them and make a fun craft to bring the Christmas tree spirit to your home.
The activity sheet is available at MCCD.me/E-Learning
Learn how to tell the different evergreens apart and look at a few different parts of the needles.
Pines are known for their needles growing in clusters.
Spruce needles do not grow in clusters. Instead, the individual needles attach directly to the branch and grow all the way around it.
Cedar trees have very different looking needles. These trees have very fragrant needles and beautiful wood.
The activity sheet includes a word search to learn the different names of the types of evergreens found in McHenry County. Then make a pioneer-inspired craft using evergreen needles. The needles from the evergreens will make your pouch smell like a Christmas tree!
In January, the topic will be "Owls," followed in February by "Whose Scat is That?!"
Due to COVID-19, the Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park is closed through Jan. 1.
For more information, call Prairieview Education Center at (815) 479-5779.
The McHenry County Conservation District currently owns and protects 25,570 acres of open space which provides wildlife habitat preservation, educational opportunities and recreational amenities for the residents of McHenry County to enjoy.
For information, visit www.mccdistrict.org.
On social media, follow @DiscoverMCCD on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or Twitter.