Nature Rx: We Need Nature!

Commissioners Rick Geiser and Jeff Gahris at McDowell Forest Preserve celebrating the restoration of the West Branch of the DuPage River

Spending time in natural environments has been consistently shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote overall mental well-being. Research indicates that even short, regular exposures to green spaces can have measurable benefits. From walking on a trail to gardening or forest bathing, the activity chosen is less important than the relaxation it gives the participant. Strive for short breaks each day up to 120 minutes per week to make it part of your routine.

Time spent in places with natural landscaping can encourage social interactions and integrations, particularly in older adults. Green landscapes with abundant vegetation and useful common spaces in urban areas are much more than aesthetic amenities — they are social infrastructure that supports community wellbeing and acts as a catalyst for social life (Kweon, Sullivan & Wiley, 1998).​

Thanks Conservation Foundation for this article and your working group on Nature Rx.

Recap of: Bicycling with Butterflies, Sunday, Sept 27, 1:30 – 4:00 pm

By Connie Schmidt,

On Sunday, September 27, a new tradition began. The DuPage Monarch Project, partnered with Go Green Glen Ellyn and The Illinois Prairie Path for a guided bike ride titled “Bicycling with Butterflies”.

After meeting in Glen Ellyn near the computer parking lot and hearing about the linear prairie plantings in Montclair Park, the group traveled about three miles west. They stopped at 3 different natural areas with designated speakers present to share their history and a bit about the plants found there. The destination was Volunteer Park in Wheaton, the epicenter of the Rail Trail that once was home to the Chicago, Aurora and Elgin electric train line. 

Wendy Vernon from the River Prairie Group and Ken McClurg from the Illinois Prairie Path Association presented the iconic volunteer history of the establishment of the IPP. On the way back the group saw a bit of remnant tracks from the original Chicago, Aurora and Elgin Line, and stopped at several areas with commentary by Jeremy Farrar of the DuPage Monarch Project on the importance of some of the distinct plants of the prairie. 

The Glen Ellyn Library event sent staff out to greet us and describe the process of the prairie creation along their border with the path. It was a wonderful day to buzz about in DuPage!

A Delightful October Program

By Sherry Stratton,

What a treat for those of us attending the October 28 program “Beyond Our Senses: Bank Swallows,” David Busse’s exceptional film and behind-the-scenes talk on the tiny birds that return each year to the Lake Michigan bluffs. With the backdrop of both the built and the natural surroundings, the film focuses on one returning male swallow--amid a skyful of others—as they compete to carve out their nests, find mates, and raise their broods. Through gorgeous photography, we witness the triumphs and the losses of the birds, alongside glimpses of the other species that share their environment. And we learn cool facts, such as the swallows’ near 360-degree field of vision and the 7000 insects a day that each pair must capture to feed their chicks. There are moments of humor, as well.   

David completes his filming as he and his wife await the birth of their first child. The film reminds us that the story of the bank swallows has a version in every other species, including humans.

You can view the trailer and get a good feel for the program and its creator at the web site beyondoursensesfilm.com.

Partnering with Representative Janet Yang Rohr is Informative and FUN!

By Connie Schmidt,

We had 40 people attend the tour of the Springbrook Water Reclamation Center in September.  This was a partnership with the River Prairie Group and office of Representative Janet Yang Rohr. Many thanks to the staff from her office, the staff at the Center and members of the DuPage Rivers Salt Creek Workgroup who helped set up the experience.  VERY interesting!

September Warrenville Grove Hike

By Connie Schmidt

Joe Pratola organized a hike beginning in Blackwell Forest Preserve and heading south to Warrenville Grove. Ed Max assisted and Connie Schmidt was along as this is her home turf. At Ed’s suggestion the first stop was to see the Urban Stream Research Center that is propagating mussels to be the “liver of our rivers” and help with water quality when they are released. The group also meandered through the once Cenacle retreat site now part of the Forest Preserve District. Because this group was adventurous, a one-block detour was made to view the mural just installed at the Warrenville Trail Head for the Illinois Prairie Path at Warrenville Rd. and Batavia Rd.  IT IS FABULOUS!  There are four panels representing each season and various modes of transportation on the trail system. Commonly viewed native plants and animals are also depicted in the intricate, detailed mosaic. Everyone loved seeing this new feature in Warrenville. The group then headed east and south along the Illinois Prairie Path and into the century old oak forest, Warrenville Grove. The destination was the view of the dam removal site on the West Branch of the DuPage River. Spectacular!

An RPG Tradition: The New Years Day Hike at the Indiana DUNES!

 

Join us for a New Years Day hike at the Indiana Dunes. Feel the "cool" breeze on your face, breathe in the clean air, listen to the birds singing. Just enjoy being outside. Start out the New Year on the right foot! We will probably hike about 4 to 5 miles (depending on conditions) on mostly inland trails where it is more sheltered from the winter winds. We will stop briefly for a lunch break. This is an important natural area and is known as the birthplace of ecology.  The trip starts at the trail head at 11 AM Chicago time to give you a bit more time on New Year's morning. After the hike, we may stop for an early dinner at a local restaurant, and you are welcome to join us.   

Bob, has been a leader and guide for the Sierra Club for about 30 years, and has led hiking, biking, and canoe adventures. He welcomes people to ask questions and share their knowledge.   

If you have any questions, please email to the leader Bob Brubaker at nlubob@yahoo.com.  

Here is more information and a link to sign up.

White Pines Winter Hike on January 2, 2027

 

Plan a peaceful start to your new year. Join outings leader, Jan Bradford of the River Prairie Group on a hike on the White Pines State Park near in Ogle County IL. In this 385-acre park there will be an opportunity to see winter animals (white tail deer, rabbits or identify their tracks), possibly view snow covered branches and enjoy the white pines and other trees during their dormant season. We may even spot the “fire hydrants” in the woods indicating where wildlife stopped. We will travel on the easier wooded trails that most people do not hike and see. If there is snow, we may even build a snowman just to enjoy our time together. We can also have hot chocolate after our hike at the lodge.

White Pines is a beautiful State Park any time during the year but it is especially beautiful in the winter.  Reserve your spot here and join me, Jan Bradford, a fun of the 2027 new year.