McHenry County Conservation District

Elizabeth Kessler, Executive Director for the McHenry County Conservation District, was the guest speaker this Elizabeth Kessler, Executive Director for the McHenry County Conservation District, was the guest speaker this morning at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Cary-Grove. Shawna Flavell, Executive Director for the McHenry County Conservation Foundationwas also present at the meeting. Founded in 1971, MCCD established a mission of "Sustaining the Dream" by becoming stewards of the places we love in McHenry County. Nearly fifty years later, that dream still motivates the staff and volunteers that nurture the 25,000 plus acres that make up the district. at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Cary-Grove. Shawna Flavell, Executive Director for the McHenry County Conservation Foundation was also present at the meeting. Founded in 1971, MCCD established a mission of "Sustaining the Dream" by becoming stewards of the places we love in McHenry County. Nearly fifty years later, that dream still motivates the staff and volunteers that nurture the 25,000 plus acres that make up the district.

At the core of what it does, MCCD works at protecting the environment that local animals and plant species rely on for their habitat.  Thirty-four sites are open to the public featuring 105 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of biking trails, 23 fishing ponds, 6 campgrounds, 4 canoe launches, 40 miles of horse trails, and 21 sites with picnic shelters, and a multitude of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Over 500 volunteers help with the maintenance of these properties.