Organization: Friends of the Forest Preserves

Lake/River Basin: Lake Michigan

Project Description: The program engages high school students from diverse backgrounds in hands-on conservation work at high-quality natural areas that harbor marsh and wet-prairie ecosystems in the Calumet Region of northeastern Illinois. During the summer, students helped to restore more than 36 acres threatened by invasive species. This project promotes the long-term stewardship of these critical natural lands by engaging local students and their community in ecological enhancement and restoration efforts. Program partners include the Student Conservation Association and the Forest Preserve District of Cook County.

	Student helps to remove invasive brush at Sand Ridge Nature Preserve. Photo courtesy of Alice Brandon, Friends of the Forest Preserves.
	Students learn how to identify invasive species before starting their work. Photo courtesy of Samuel Vergara, Student Conservation Association.