Go Eco! The best way to get “just the facts, naturally” is to experience it for yourself. Following is a list of ways you can Go Eco! in and near the Chicago area, and discover fascinating eco-facts firsthand.
You can also check out our Partners page, with links to even more great events.
Pop quiz: What does fracking mean for the regions currently experiencing an oil boom? Explore the answers from nationally acclaimed photographer Terry Evans and award-winning filmmaker Elizabeth Farnsworth, whose new exhibit at the Field shows how fracking—aka injecting fluids into the ground to fracture oil shale—brings prosperity as well as tragedy to North Dakota. Vivid photography and personal testimony make this tough subject thought-provoking and accessible for all ages. Visit the Field website for more details.
Wanna help protect native wetlands plants? Join EcoMyths partner The Wetlands Initiative for its first-ever sedge seed collection day at the lovely Dixon Waterfowl Refuge at Hennepin and Hopper Lakes. Snacks, tools, and picturesque scenery are included—get the deets and be sure to RSVP.
We want YOU to become a Friends of the Chicago River Gullywalker! It’s a pretty sweet volunteer gig: Friends has launched a new Gully Identification Project to cut down on some of the unmanaged dumping that’s damaging the river and surrounding landscape. In one training, you’ll get schooled on how to identify and report gullies along the Chicago River—helping you protect the future of this important waterway—then you get to stroll along the lovely banks and conduct said eco-heroism whenever you want. Visit the Friends info page here, or contact mayala@chicagoriver.org for more info.
Presenting, three glorious musical to-dos at one city gem. This June, the CSO is setting up shop on the Morton Arboretum Concert Lawn for three themed performances, comprising an all-Tchaivosky lineup on Saturday, John Williams classics from such flicks as ET and Star Wars, and a dance program featuring frolicsome faves like Carmen. Be sure to build in extra time before or after for a requisite amble. Head to the Morton website for more info.
Whether you’re an amateur shutterbug or a sharp shooter, prepare to unleash your inner Ansel Adams at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Photo Walk. There you’ll get expert tips on natural photography, then walk the garden and let your creativity blossom. Who knows—you might be inspired to submit an entry to the ongoing digital photography contest. Your muse awaits!
Grab some work gloves and join other volunteers to save some of Lake County’s natural areas. Workdays are a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, make new friends who share a concern for the preserves, and make a meaningful contribution. Visit the LCFPD website for a full workday schedule, site steward contact information, meeting places, descriptions of workday activities, and more.