Ecological Stewardship
Thousands of people around the county volunteer to restore healthy and vibrant native ecosystems. The Forest Preserve District of Cook County sponsors volunteer laypeople and certifies stewards to work in its woodlands, wetlands, savannas, and prairies. Coming from all walks of life, volunteer stewards ensure that Illinois’ native ecosystems remain a healthy legacy for generations to come. They do this by removing invading plants and brush, harvesting and sowing rare native seeds, and monitoring flora and fauna. They are connected to nature and each other. Make a difference and serve the preserves by getting involved today.

Currently, volunteers are working on over 70 land management sites throughout the Forest Preserve District assisting the District's staff with the control of invasive, herbaceous and woody species, scientific monitoring, trash collection, seed collection and dispersal, and prescribed burns.

Ecological Stewardship Roles
Be an Ecological Stewardship Workday Volunteer; attend one of our weekend workdays. Click here for the complete list

Workday Volunteers can recieve additional training to become Licensed Herbiciders, Prescription Burn Volunteers, Power Equipment Operators, or Workday Leaders.

Plant and Wildlife Monitors
Become a bird, frog, butterfly, dragonfly, squirrel, plants of concern, or plant community monitor. Click here to learn more