Illinois
Department of Natural Resources
VOLO BOG & MORAINE HILLS
INTERPRETIVE
INFORMATION
VOLO BOG & MORAINE HILLS
INTERPRETIVE
INFORMATION
 |
Volo
Bog State Natural Area Moraine
Hills State Park |
Public Programs | Public Book Discussions | Schools and Other Youth Groups
Volunteer Opportunities | Volo Bog Activity Guide - Primary
Forty-five miles northwest of Chicago in Lake County, Volo Bog is the only “quaking” bog in Illinois. The bog is a registered National Natural Landmark and a dedicated nature preserve. Picnicking, hiking, and cross country skiing are offered at the site. There is an abundance of unique plants and wildlife that can be seen in Volo Bog.
Volo Bog State Natural Area is home to Illinois'
only remaining open-water quaking bog. A gift of the Wisconsin Glacier,
Volo Bog began forming in a kettle hole lake over 6,000 years ago. A floating
mat of vegetation encroached from the lake edges toward the center. The
initial plant community included sphagnum mosses and sedges. As these
plants died, they did not decompose but formed a floating substrate of
peat from which more plants grew. As the mat thickened, it supported larger
plants such as cranberry, leatherleaf and poison sumac. Deciduous tamarack
pines gained a foothold as the mat thickened to support their increasing
weight. Highbush blueberry, the carnivorous pitcher plant and 
several
orchids also make their home in Volo Bog. Today, five plant communities
encircle a half-acre pond like a target. The pond has no true bottom;
suspended peat thickens toward the bottom of the old kettle hole 50+ feet
below. A 1/2 mile trail including a wooden boardwalk loops through all
the stages of bog succession to overlook the center pond.
Volo Bog was designated an Illinois Nature Preserve in 1970 and a National Natural Landmark in 1973. It is an excellent outdoor laboratory and classroom. Interpretive programs are available to most ages (beginning at 4 years old) throughout the year.
INTERPRETER INFORMATION
Stacy Iwanicki
For the General
Public:
Guided public tours of Volo Bog are conducted on Saturdays and Sundays
at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for individuals, families and small groups.
Groups of ten or more are asked to make arrangements for a private group
tour. The one-hour bog tour follows a half-mile boardwalk through all
the stages of classic bog succession as an old glacial lake gives way
to sphagnum moss, orchids, poison sumac and tamarack trees. Frogs and
tadpoles entertain most every visitor spring through fall. Muskrats and
mink delight the more careful observers. Even winter is a wonder at Volo
Bog with bright red berries on winterberry and an abundance of animal
tracks on freshly fallen snow. Occasional winters have hosted rare visitors
from the north including saw-whet owls and crossbills. Pets not
allowed on the Boardwalk.
In addition to the public bog tours, a broad spectrum of special events, tours, lectures and workshops are also held throughout the year.
Events:
Winterfest - 2nd Sunday in January
International Migratory Bird Day - Sunday in late April/Early May
International Bog Day - 4th Sunday in July
Ghost Stories - 2nd Saturday in October
Volunteer Opportunities at Volo Bog & Moraine Hills
Volo Bog Volunteer Application | Moraine Hills Volunteer Application
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is looking for dedicated adults for a variety of volunteer projects (outlined below) at Volo Bog State Natural Area and Moraine Hills State Park. For further information, or to register for a workshop, please contact Naturalist Stacy Iwanicki at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov.
Crafty Bog Committee at Volo Bog
Volo Bog State Natural Area is re-vamping its CBC! Members of this committee
will develop craft ideas made with natural and used materials, and
will enjoy teaching the projects to others at special events and craft
days.
Roving Naturalists at Moraine Hills
Roving Naturalists, as the name implies, will not sit in one place for
long! Dressed in “naturalist-wear,” they will reach out
to visitors along the trails to answer questions and share seasonal
observations such as frog & bird calls, flowers in bloom, animal
signs, etc... A wonderful example is when a volunteer bluebird monitor
discovered the emergence of garter snakes and stopped passers-by to
share in the wonder.
Docents at Moraine Hills
Docents are friendly adults who greet people on weekends at Moraine Hills’ Nature
Center. They assist with directions and share insights to enhance the
visitors’ park experience. For example, docents will encourage
folks to contribute to the site’s bird log, sign up for interpretive
programs or check out loaner binoculars. Docents will also encourage
visitors to watch for Roving Naturalists along their hike.
Bluebird Monitors at Volo
Bog & Moraine Hills
Bluebird Monitors check and maintain from 10 - 20 nest boxes once per
week from late March through early August. There are three openings
for bluebird monitors at Moraine Hills State Park. Additional monitoring
opportunities may be available at other trails throughout Lake and
McHenry Counties.
Prairie Gardeners at Volo
Bog & Natural Gardeners at Moraine Hills
Volunteer gardeners attend to the native prairie & woodland gardens
that grace the grounds at each site. Some gardeners have prior knowledge
but many are beginners who learn on-the-job. PGVs and NGVs are folks
who like to keep their own schedule and work mostly behind the scenes
but who are not afraid to promote the use of natives in the garden with
visitors who happen by. Prairie and Native Gardeners will have their spring organizational meeting at Volo Bog State Natural Area on Sunday, March 21 from 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. To register, phone 815-344-1294.
Hummingbird Feeder Maintenance at Volo Bog
Volo Bog is going to hold a Hummingbird Festival at Volo Bog this summer!
Volunteers are needed to clean and re-fill up to ten hummingbird feeders
every-other day from late March - early November (possibly even later).
To accomplish this at least 3 volunteers will be needed to contribute
once per week - If more people are available, each can come in less
frequently.
Volo Bog State Natural Area is an Illinois Department of Natural Resources
site located in Ingleside on Brandenburg Road west off U.S. Highway
12 between State Highways 120 and 134.
Moraine Hills State Park and McHenry Dam are an Illinois Department of
Natural Resources complex located south of McHenry on River Road between
State Highways 120 and 176.
For further information on volunteer opportunities,
or to register for a workshop, please contact Naturalist Stacy Iwanicki
at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
The Friends of Volo Bog is offering two scholarships for $1,000 each to outstanding students interested in pursuing environmental careers. Applications can be found at www.friendsofvolobog.org and are due by the fourth friday in February.
To be eligible for the "Entering College" Scholarship the applicant must reside in Lake, McHenry, Kane, Cook, DuPage, Kendall, or Will County, attend a high school in one of these counties, have a minimum B average for the first three years, and plan to attend an accredited college or university. The applicant should be planning to enter a career directly related to preserving the environment.
To be eligible for the "Continuing College" Scholarship the applicant must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, have a permanent residence in Lake, McHenry, Kane, Cook, DuPage, Kendall, or Will County, have graduated from a high school from one of these counties with a minimum B average, and currently hold a minimum B average in their college studies. The applicant should be on a course study leading to a career directly related to preserving the environment.
Applications are due by the fourth Friday in February.
Application packets are available at http://www.friendsofvolobog.org/
The Friends of Volo Bog is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) membership organization dedicated to the preservation of the area’s natural heritage, maintenance of site facilities, and advancement of educational programming at Volo Bog State Natural Area.
Spring into Spring at
Volo Bog SNA, Moraine Hills SP & McHenry Dam
- Most programs are FREE - Donations are happily accepted by our Friends groups
- Reservations are requested for most programs (and required for some) - Phone 815-344-1294 or email dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
- Limited Drop-ins usually welcome but...program may be cancelled if minimum registration is not met 24 hours prior.
Would you be our Friend?
Our Friends provide support of educational programs, habitat restoration and other activities at your favorite nature sites!
Perhaps you'd like to join them?
For membership and other information visit
www.FriendsofVoloBog.org and www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org
Donations to these 501(c)(3) organizations may be tax deductible - consult a tax advisor
Guided Tours of Volo Bog
Most Saturdays & Sundays 11:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. LNCI!
Spring comes slowly to bogs. Sphagnum moss insulates the frozen peat long after upland soils begin to thaw. But eventually fiddle head ferns will emerge; leatherleaf's leaves will re-green, then drop, as their bell flowers sprout along new twigs. Spring ephemerals, like their woodland counterparts, will appear before the trees cast their shade. Look for marsh marigold, starflower and northern white violet reaching up from the moss. Before the end of April the tamaracks will leaf out, adding more green to Volo Bog. And of course there's the birds and frogs, filling the air with songs of spring.
All ages are welcome to our one-hour public tours for individuals, families and small groups of nine or fewer. No reservations are needed except... groups of 10 or more, please phone to arrange a private group tour. For more information, phone 815-344-1294 or visit Volo Bog State Natural Area at http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/PARKS/R2/VOLOBOG.HTM
Astronomy Nights at Volo Bog State Natural Area LNCI!
Third Fridays 8:30 p.m. - open
April 19; May 17
The Comet of the Century: Preparing for Comet ISON
Comet ISON may be the brightest comet ever seen when it swings by the Sun in late November 2013 - or it could turn out to be a colossal dud. Michelle Nichols from the Adler Planetarium will give an overview of what a comet is, how to find Comet ISON later in 2013, and give a sneak-peek to the show that ISON may, or may not, put on for us in our nighttime skies. Ms. Nichols is Master Educator for NASA Forum Programs at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago. She has been employed by Adler for 17 years and earned a BS degree in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Illinois and a Masters in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from National-Louis University.
After the program, if the weather permits, members of the club will set up telescopes in the parking lot for some viewing of the night sky.
Astronomy Under The City Lights (AUTCL) or Lake County Astronomical Society Hits the Road
Utilizing powerful telescopes, amateur astronomers from Lake County Astronomical Society will share views of the Moon and planets from outside local libraries. This event is free and suitable for all ages. There will be special surprises for the young 'future astronomers' who attend. No advanced registration is required. These events are dependent on dry weather and clear skies. Visit www.lcas-astronomy.org for the next location near you! Questions? Contact the LCAS at contact@lcas-astronomy.org
Lake County Astronomical Society meets at Volo Bog SNA on the third Friday of each month except December. A business meeting is held at 7:30 p.m. followed by an indoor presentation at 8:30 p.m. and if skies are clear - viewing about 9:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to peer through members' scopes. The public is always welcome - no registration required. Visit www.LCAS-Astronomy.org for program details.
Bird Walks at McHenry Dam
Saturdays &/or Sundays 8:00 a.m. Ask for our refrigerator flyer! LNCI!
April 20; May 11, 18; June 1, 8, 23 (Look for additional Bird Walks at Volo Bog SNA)
Spring has arrived on the wings of birds! Redwing blackbirds & sandhill cranes are staking out territories in the wetlands. The Fox River is up and sporting a variety of ducks, as are the marshes. Look for grebes, teal, widgeon, ring-necked ducks, lesser scaup, bufflehead, ruddy ducks & mergansers. Sora, Virginia rail and yellow-legs feed in the marshy areas. Early warblers will return in April with the bulk coming through in May as the trees come into leaf. Meadowlarks and bobolinks will sing in the prairie and flycatchers will liven the woods.
McHenry Dam bird walks start at the Fox River then head for the two-mile "yellow trail" to search woods, wetlands and prairie. Bring binoculars and field guides or borrow from our leaders. Walk length and time varies from 1 - 3+ hours with weather and luck in birding. Co-sponsored by McHenry County Audubon. Visit www.McHenryAudubon.org. Adults and attentive kids ages 6 and older are welcome. Meet at the south end of the McHenry Dam parking lot. Registration is requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov Walk-ins welcome but walk may be cancelled if minimum registration is not met 24 hours prior.
Habitat Restoration and Stewardship Team Special Work Day LNCI!
at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Tuesday, April 23 (rescheduled day) Native Planting with Earth Day in the Parks - Current volunteers invited
Enjoy fresh air as we tackle exotic invasive species and re-establish the natives. We pull, cut, plant and gather seeds, depending on the season. HWDs are a fun family project (adults & Kids 7 & up). Please dress for the weather and bring gloves (we’ll have a few to borrow too). At Volo Bog SNA - Meet in Visitor Center. Reservations requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. Walk-ins welcome but session may be cancelled if minimum registration is not met 24 hours prior. New HRST Volunteers, please arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork ;0)
Bird Walks at Volo Bog State Natural Area LNCI!
Saturdays & Sundays 8:00 a.m. Ask for our refrigerator flyer!
April 27; May 4, 25; June 15, 29 (Look for additional Bird Walks at McHenry Dam)
It's finally spring! Bluebirds and tree swallows are back! Blue-winged Teal and American Widgeon are on Brandenburg Marsh. Owl eggs will be hatching in time to take advantage of newly exposed voles and mice to fill hungry mouths. Red-tailed hawks' eggs will be hatching soon. Woodpeckers are drumming, nuthatches are "laughing" and & chickadees are singing their familiar "peee-weee." Soon the marsh will welcome rails - Virginia & sora - along with marsh wrens and swamp sparrows. By May, we'll listen for the veery to add his ephemeral veer-veer-veer-veer to the bog, and welcome the warblers with the leafing out of the trees.
Bring binoculars and field guides or borrow from our leaders to discover the many species at VBSNA. Walk is just under three miles and takes from 1.5 - 3+ hours with weather and luck in birding. Save time to stop in the Visitor Center to watch the birds at the feeders too! Co-sponsored by McHenry County Audubon. Visit www.McHenryAudubon.org. Adults and attentive kids ages 6 and older are welcome. Meet in the parking lot. Registration is requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov Walk-ins welcome but walk may be cancelled if minimum registration is not met 24 hours prior.
Volunteer Veterans' Conservation Corps
Every other Saturday *** 9:30 am - 12:00 Noon
April 27; May 11; June 8, 22; July 6, 20
The Chimney Swift Project begins! The crew is currently working in the Volo Bog SNA garage behind the Visitor Center.
See the plans at http://www.chimneyswifts.org/ & http://www.chimneyswifts.org/Information%20Handout%202008.pdf
Ask for more details - First-timers are encouraged to join!
Volunteer Veterans' Conservation Corp provides opportunities for veterans to continue serving their country by assisting with and developing projects to enhance our state parks and natural areas. The VVCC is a cooperative effort of the the Illinois Department of Natural Resources at VBSNA, MHSP & MD, Friends of Volo Bog and Friends of Moraine Hills State Park with additional support provided by the Veterans Assistance Commission of McHenry County. Natural Resources Coordinator Stacy Iwanicki, advisor to the VVCC, emphasizes how the corps is bringing veterans from different generations and conflicts together around a common cause - protection and enhancement of the natural environment in Illinois. For information on joining the Volunteer Veterans' Conservation Corps, contact Ms. Iwanicki at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
International Migratory Bird Days - See Flyer for details
Saturday, April 27 at McHenry Dam
Sunday, April 28 at Volo Bog SNA
Birds know no boundaries! They just need places to rest, find food, build nests and raise young. Joins us as we celebrate birds and their amazing migratory journeys. Our two-day event begins at McHenry Dam on Saturday then moves to Volo Bog SNA on Sunday. Live Birds visit our celebration on Sunday! Participants are invited to complete activites and get their "passports" stamped in order to win prizes including Audubon Plush Birds, books and puzzles. Sunday will feature working falcons - a peregrine and a gyrfalcon from the International Heritage Conservancy. Each day a free drawing is held to give away a grand prize a pair of 7 x 35 Wide Angle Binoculars. Fun for all ages. See also attached flyer & check for updates as we grow the program.
Moraine Hills State Park Photo Contest Entries sought
May 3rd - June 7th - Submissions being accepted at Moraine Hills State Park office
Entries will be accepted in seven categories - Color Plant, Color Invertebrate, Color Vertebrate, Color Landscape, Black & White, Beyond Illinois & People (& Pets) in the Park. See attached for complete rules and timeline. Submissions being accepted at Moraine Hills State Park office most Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays - Phone ahead (815-385-1624) before delivering, to ensure office is open.
Youth Art Guild meets at Volo Bog State Natural Area LNCI!
Sundays, May 5; June 3; July 7 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Up next: Print Making with Lucy Tonyan YAG has four openings!
VBSNA's Youth Art Guild is open to children ages 11 - 17 who wish to explore nature through art. As members of a nature art guild, young artists explore and create nature-themed works, and meet with guest artists of varying interests. While the style and media varies (ex. botanical/scientific illustration, anime, whimsical sculpture, inpressionistic painting, etc...) the central theme always celebrates Nature. The program is non-competitive, individualistic, interactive & supportive. Group size is small - limited to 17 guilders. Each session includes outdoor sketching & journaling, as well as indoor work. Sponsored by Friends of Volo Bog - Monthly fee covers most supplies. Sponsor Reprographics Imaging and Art Supplies of Crystal Lake provides guild members with discounts on art materials - visit them at www.Reprographics.org/ For more information contact Stacy Iwanicki at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294.
Book Discussions at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Second Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Ask for our Spring flyer and the cumulative list of over 200 titles by 173 authors
Of Bogs & Books is in its 20th year! The monthly gathering of adults (age 17 & older, generally...) shares discussions of nature, science & environmental readings over morning coffee & snacks. Over 200 titles have been discussed since establishment in 1994!
- May 11 - Wolf Totem - A Novel by Jiang Rong
- June 8 - Life and Legends of the Sioux around Fort Snelling by Mary Eastman, 1849!
- July 13 - The Sea Around Us by Rachel Carson
- August 10 - The Ocean of Life: The Fate of Man and the Sea by Callum Roberts
Photo Club Meets at Volo Bog State Natural Area
Third Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
May 15; June 19
Improve your Nature Photography! Learn camera skills as well as digital manipulation. Through guest speakers, programs and competitions, photographers will learn how to create impactful nature images. While membership is required to compete, non-members are always welcome to attend - no registration required. Memberships are available at the meetings. Visit www.shutterbugsofvolobog.org for more information.
Free Family Fishing & Nature Discovery Day at McHenry Dam
with Friends of Moraine Hills State Park
Saturday, June 8 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Join the Friends for an afternoon of fishing at the north end of McHenry Dam. All equipment is provided - poles, hooks, bait, educational materials, etc... In addition to fishing, discover more river wildlife from aquatic macroinvertebrates to frogs, birds and maybe mammals as well.
LNCI!
Chipmunk Woods - Watch our progress as the split rail fence appears around Chipmunk Woods at Volo Bog State Natural Area. Various whimsical discoveries will create a fun free-play nature area. The project is a joint effort of Volo Bog State Natural Area and Friends of Volo Bog with help from a local Eagle Scout and Volo Bog Volunteers. Watch for this area to take shape behind the VBSNA Visitor Center this spring and for a grand opening in June. To learn how you can help, please contact Natural Resources Coordinator Stacy Iwanicki at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294.
Calling all Grown "Children of Volo Bog!"
Did you grow up with Volo Bog State Natural Area as a part of your childhood? If so, please share your story in 250 - 1,000 words. Please either type directly in an email body or provide it in Word form to Natural Resources Coordinator Stacy Iwanicki at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. We'll collect all stories (18 years and older), and share some of them in future issues of The Bog Log.
Donations Sought
Simple things from around the house (and some a little more generous) go a long way!
Contact Volo Bog by reply or 815-344-1294 before delivering donations.
Friends of Volo Bog & Friends of Moraine Hills State Park are both 501(c)(3) organizations so donations may be tax deductible - consult a tax advisor!
- Composting Tumbler
- Library Booktruck (a cart on wheels, with sloped shelves) - used OK - or fund a new one (about $300.00 with S&H)
- Library Card Catalog File - Used/wooden prefered (they don't make them anymore) with 2 to 8 drawers
- Dry Erase Board (2'x3' White)
- Light-weight easels to hold dry erase board
- Closed-cell foam camp pads - we cut them up to make sit-upons and only need two more! Quality Turkey Basters (not cheepos from the dollar shop)
- Metal Bells of all types and sizes (go ahead, ask ;0)
- Nature DVDs for our libraries
- ON HOLD (We're good for now) White View Binders - any size; used OK, if in good shape
Thank you donors:
- The Bornhoeft Family of Lindenhurst - Our sponsor for Chipmunk Woods Split Rail Fence
- Karen Dietrich for sponsoring our Falconer for IMBD
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Shop the Tamarack Shop at Volo Bog SNA!
Friends of Volo Bog's "Small Business"/Not-for-Profit Nature Store!
Many Items Made in America, some by local artisans and craftspeople
Spring Sale - 10% OFF on select T-Shirts while supplies last!
NEW - Audubon Plush Birds - Squeeze them and hear them sing ;0)
Nature Books & Field Guides, Fold-out ID Cards
Sweat Shirts, T-shirts, Wildlife Puppets
Music & Nature Sounds CDs
Volo Bog Sweat Shirts, Coffee Mugs, and Patches
featuring the art of bog artist Sinead Carus of Irish Viking Design
Volo Bog Ball Caps & Bumber Stickers
Friends of Volo Bog members save 10% on most items.
Memberships start at only $10.00!!! Find a printable membership form at www.FriendsofVoloBog.org
Open* Wednesday - Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
*(as volunteers are available, and by luck and chance otherwise ;0)!
Cash and Checks Only - sorry no plastic.
All proceeds support programming, habitat restoration and other projects at Volo Bog State Natural Area.
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Enjoy the great outdoors this spring... Let Nature motivate YOUR Exercize!
- Hike almost 6 miles of natural grassy paths at Volo Bog State Natural Area including .4 miles into the heart of Volo Bog!
- Hike or bike 10 miles of trails at Moraine Hills State Park & McHenry Dam including a 2 mile loop at McHenry Dam
23 1/2 Hours...
Here's another good reason to hike our trails (Not that enjoying Nature isn't enough ;0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUaInS6HIGo
Would you be our Friend?
Our Friends provide support of educational programs, habitat restoration and other activities at your favorite nature sites!
Perhaps you'd like to join them?
For membership and other information visit
www.FriendsofVoloBog.org and www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org
Donations to these 501(c)(3) organizations may be tax deductible - consult a tax advisor
Visit our sites' Friends Groups & Associates:
www.FriendsofVoloBog.org
www.FriendsofMoraineHillsStatePark.org
www.ShutterBugsofVoloBog.org
www.McHenryAudubon.org
www.lcas-astronomy.org
www.co.mchenry.il.us/departments/vac
www.chicagowilderness.org
www.kidsoutside.info
LNCI!
Leave No Child Inside!
Volo Bog State Natural Area is an Illinois Department of Natural Resources site located in Ingleside on Brandenburg Road west off U.S. Highway 12 between State Highways 120 and 134. For program reservations, contact 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov
Moraine Hills State Park and McHenry Dam are an Illinois Department of Natural Resources complex located South of McHenry on River Road between State Highways 120 and 176. For reservations for programs at Moraine Hills, please contact Volo Bog at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov For information on the park itself, please phone 815-385-1624.
PUBLIC BOOK DISCUSSIONS AT VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL AREA
"Of Bogs & Books"
Engaging Conversations since 1994!
Second Saturday of each month @ 10 AM
Volo Bog’s Visitor Center Library
Refreshments & Coffee
Participants are encouraged to have read at least part of the book (although this is not required).
No minimum requirement - come once a year or every month as time allows and/or the book entices.
Reservations are requested at dnr.volobog@illinois.gov or 815-344-1294.
FOR SCHOOL AND OTHER YOUTH GROUPS
Volo Bog offers 17 different programs ranging from Bog Life and Aqua Safari to Animal Tracking and Tomorrow’s Leaders. There are numerous programs offered at each grade level beginning at 2nd grade. Prekindergarten through 1st graders are taken on a Small Wonders program which focuses on the safe use of our senses as we explore the natural world.
NOTE: All programs are offered at Volo Bog State Natural Area. Programs indicated with an * are also offered at Moraine Hills State Park. Sorry, no indoor lunch facility at Moraine Hills State Park.
At Volo Bog, we define "Youth Group" very casually. Any gathering of ten or more people (minimum 8 children with two supervising adults) qualifies.
WHEN TO SCHEDULE FOR WEEKDAY SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS:
Fall (September - December) Winter (January - February) Spring (March - May) Summer (June - August) |
May September January May |
SCHOOL GROUP SIZE: 10 Students minimum; 60 Students maximum (will be broken into smaller groups)
SCOUT AND OTHER YOUTH PROGRAMS are offered on Saturdays. Generally one month notice is adequate but availability varies seasonally. Youth group size: 10 people minimum; 40 people maximum (split into two groups).
BOG LIFE Note: I/O = Indoor/Outdoor
| 2nd - 12th grades | Year-round (I/O) | 1 ˝ - 2 hours |
Learn how Volo Bog was formed then explore this unique wetland for fascinating plants and secretive animals. Scary tales of bog bodies and boogie men are among the favorites. Add the famous Visitor Center Hunt for the extra half-hour.
THE ECOLOGY OF VOLO BOG
| 7 - 12th grades | May - October (I/O) | 4 hours |
A program to really get into - this program involves the students in their studies of Volo Bog through an in-depth, interactive, interdisciplinary program. An activity guide leads students through two class periods of required preparations before the visit and gives suggestions for follow-up extensions.
AQUA SAFARI *
| 2nd - 12th grades | May - September (I/O) | 1 ˝ - 2 hours |
Explore the private lives of aquatic inhabitants. Using such highly technical equipment as dish pans, kitchen strainers and turkey basters, students gather aquatic invertebrates and study one in detail. Older students discuss biodiversity and the use of aquatic invertebrates as environmental health indicators.
A SHOVEL FULL OF EARTH *
| 3rd - 6th grades | May - September (Outdoor) | 1 ˝ hours |
Students get face to face with the secretive inhabitants of the “underworld.” The formation and importance of soil is discussed. Biodiversity is introduced through fun, comparative data collection and analysis appropriate to elementary levels.
ANIMAL HOMES *
| 2nd - 5th grades | October - April (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Everybody needs a HOME! Or do they? Through interactive games and/or a scavenger hunt, children distinguish homes from habitats. The characteristics and uses of habitats and homes are discussed then we explore for real-life examples of each.
BIRDS
| 2nd - 6th grades | October - April (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
What makes a bird a bird? First we’ll discover what makes them different from other animals. Then we’ll take an up-close comparative look at some examples. Finally, an outdoor excursion will demonstrate how to look for birds and signs of their presence. “We’ll GO BIRDING!”
MAMMALS *
| 2nd - 6th grades | December - March (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
What do all mammals including humans have in common? How are they different from all other animals? What mammals are native to Illinois? Discover this an more through hands on activities and a scavenger hike.
BATTY ABOUT BATS
| 1st - 6th grades | October - March (Indoor) | 1 ˝ hours |
“Bats are blind...Bats get caught in your hair...All bats carry rabies...Bats will suck your blood...Bats are flying mice...” NOT! A video or slide show dispels these myths then games and crafts add to the fun of learning about these most misunderstood mammals.
INSECT SAFARI *
| 2nd - 6th grades | June - September (Outdoor) | 1 ˝ hours |
Discover more animals than can ever be imagined in one small field! Learn what makes insects unique, some of their survival techniques and how they fit into our lives.
ANIMAL TRACKING *
| 3rd - 12th grades | January - February (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Learn how different animals walk and how to decode the variety of signs they leave behind. Then explore the area to discover the secrets of winter life revealed in the signs discovered.
SMALL WONDERS - A SENSORY WALK *
| PK (min. age 4) - 1st. grade | Year - Round (I/O) | 45 minutes - 1 hour |
A grab-bag-o-fun fro the very young! Through a variety of activities and stories, children learn how to safely explore nature with their “discovery tools.” Activities vary with the seasons, needs of the group and adult:child ratios.
ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS
*
| 3rd - 6th grades | October - May (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Compare animals that are similar yet different to explore how they are each uniquely equipped for survival in different niches. Then, through activities such as the popular Bat & Moth and Hawk and Rabbit games, the concepts are reinforced.
WEB-O-LIFE
*
| 3rd - 6th grades | May - September (I/O) | 1 ˝ hours |
Web-O-Life introduces communities: first our own human-dominated community, next a natural outdoor woodland community and finally a pictorial wetland community. Through hands-on exploration and personal involvement, students discover the interrelationships and interdependency of all members in a community. Final discussion addresses the most powerful community member of all.
TOMORROW’S LEADERS
| 7th - 12th grades | Year Around (Indoor) | 2 hours |
Students simulate a town meeting to make some very important choices concerning the future of their environment. This is a high-spirited program which stimulates discussion that often follows the students back to school and home! Optional follow-up classroom activity adds deeper dimension.
DIPPING INTO ASTRONOMY
| 4th - 6th grades | April - October (I/O) | 1 1/2 hours |
Learn the phases of the moon, how season work, the planets in our solar systme and why the sun and stars appear to ove across the sky. Finish with an introduction to fun constellations like Cassipoeia and the Big Dipper! All this and more is explored with members of the Lake County Astronomical Society through a fun, interactive approach!
ADULT GROUPS
Garden clubs, college classes and other groups of adults can take advantage of private group tours of Volo Bog as well as bird walks, bog botany and tree classes, Bats in Your Belfry (which includes a trip to Illinois’ largest known nursery colony of little brown bats), and a nature awareness immersion program, Rediscovering the Wonder Within.Scout Leaders * Singles Groups * Religious Groups
Parent Groups * Senior Groups
Friends & Neighbors * Any Social Group
VOLO BOG: AN INTRODUCTION
TO A UNIQUE ILLINOIS WETLAND
| 10 - 40 people** | Year Round (I/O) | 1 ˝ - 2 hours |
Volo Bog is a fascinating wetland ecosystem of treacherous floating soils and bizarre plants. This guided, half-mile tour along a floating boardwalk gives an up-close introduction to this strange world. Tours differ with each season: its hard to say which is best. Even winter offers a unique experience that is available at no other time. The tour can include a half hour slide presentation providing a glimpse of Volo Bog throughout the year. The slide portion alone is ideal as an off-site program for group gatherings. **As an off-site program, there is no maximum group size limit. A dark room with a projection- surface is required.
BOG BOTANY
| 10 - 15 people | May - October (I/O) | 2 hours |
Bog Botany is a fascinating study for garden clubs and other groups with a special botanical interest. The program addresses the unique adaptations of Volo Bog flora and includes a “hands-on” field identification session.
POND LIFE
| 10 - 25 people | May - October (I/O) | 2 hours |
A true “Rediscover Your Sense of Wonder” program, Pond Life invites participants to lie on their bellies and reach within the depths of a pond. The emphasis is on the aquatic invertebrates. The function of these animals as water quality indicators is addressed.
TREE AND SHRUB IDENTIFICATION
| 10 - 25 people | Year Around (I/O) | 2 hours |
Common trees and shrubs of northeastern Illinois woodlands will serve as examples in the development of tree identification skills. The program begins with a hands-on introduction to dichotomous keys. The field session introduces some of the most common species and quick clues to their identification.
BIRD WALK
| 10 - 15 people | Year (0) | 1 - 4 hours |
A bird walk is great for an early morning start. The length of the walk is very flexible and can be tailored to the group. The great diversity of Volo Bog State Natural Area’s habitats provides for a good selection of species with over 170 species documented.
ANIMAL TRACKING
| 10 - 25 people | January - February (I/O) | 2 - 4 hours |
Animal tracking is a great way to discover mammals living in an area. This program teaches how to identify tracks as well as numerous other signs or clues that mammals leave behind. It includes both an indoor presentation and a practical field session.
BATS IN YOUR BELFRY
| 25 - 75 people | July - August (I/O) | 2 hours |
Volo Bog State Natural Area is home to the largest nursery colony of little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) known on Illinois Department of Natural Resources property. This evening program includes a slide presentation and a short field trip to watch nearly 2,000 bats exit their nursery colony for a night’s feeding. Folks with youngsters may wish to watch for our scheduled “Bats in Your Belfry” general public programs. Although youth groups are not allowed to register for public programs, families from the groups may register individually.
REDISCOVERING THE
WONDER WITHIN
| 10 - 25 people | June - August 0 | 3 hours |
Immerse Your Senses in Nature! This is a real “let your hair down” program: great as a stress release in our bustling technological world! Participants learn nature observation and appreciation techniques adapted from John Muir, Aldo Leopold, Rachel Carson and renowned naturalist Joseph Cornell. Plan to leave your beepers, cell phones, watches, etc. at home, or at least in your car!
Volo
Bog’s Visitor Center is housed in a turn-of-the-(19th) century dairy
barn. The old barn has undergone a series of renovations over the years.
It opened to the public as a Visitor Center in 1980 and has since undergone
various upgrades and improvements. In November 1996, construction began
on the most extensive upgrade yet; a complete renovation. The newly remodeled
state-of-the-art building keeps the old-barn charm but is completely accessible
(featuring an elevator up the silo) and has a classroom facility to accommodate
80 people. The Tamarack Shop, run by the Friends of Volo Bog, offers gifts
and a wonderful selection of nature and environment-related books. The
second floor of the Visitor Center is two stories tall and features interpretive
exhibits about Volo Bog and wetlands in general as well as a popular interactive
discovery center. The Leatherleaf Library houses a wonderful selection
of books, magazines, and clippings in a lateral file. Much of the material
in the library is donated by visitors, Volo Bog Volunteers and the Friends
of Volo Bog. Check-out privileges are extended to Volo Bog Volunteers,
and members of the Friends of Volo Bog and The Lake County Astronomical
Society.
VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL
AREA
28478 W. BRANDENBURG ROAD
INGLESIDE, ILLINOIS 60041
815/344-1294
Volo Bog Surrounding Area
Volo Bog Surrounding Area
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1. Lakes Region Historical Society
817 Main Street-P.O. Box 240
Antioch, Illinois 60002 (847)395-7337
The restored 1892 Antioch grade school accommodates the collection of the Lakes Region Historical Society. Objects in changeable theme exhibits pertain to local lore and history of the Chain of Lakes area.
2. McHenry County Historical Society
6422 Main Street
Union, Illinois 60180 (815)923-2267
McHenry County history illustrated through four large galleries in the 1870 expanded Union grade school. Exhibits contain artifacts which represent home life, farming, industrialism, and the military. Also featured is a restored 1847 log cabin, a 20th century tourist cabin, and an 1895 one-room schoolhouse. The research library contains postcards, diaries, ledgers, photographs, plat maps, abstracts, reference books, and biographical obituaries, and cemetery files.
3. Lake County Museum-Lakewood Forest Preserve
27277 North forest Preserve Drive
Wauconda, Illinois 60084 (847)526-7878
Hands-on exhibits that highlight the history of Lake County. Housed on a former dairy farm in the Lakewood Forest Preserve, over 20,000 objects are rotated on exhibit including horsedrawn vehicles; Native American tools, art, and clothing; farm, household, and light industrial equipment 1840-1975. The Curt Teich Postcard Archives is a national collection of over 350,000 postcard images and illustrates 20th century America. The exhibit "America in a Postcard Mirror" located in the public gallery shows a portion of this collection. The Regional History archives preserves photographs, documents, diaries, ledgers, and maps relating to the history of Lake County.
4. Wauconda Township Historical Society
711 N. Main Street
Wauconda, Illinois 60084 (847)526-9303
Restored 1840's Cook Farmhouse exhibits the history of Wauconda through period room settings and interpretive displays. Interpreters tour visitors through the house, demonstrate weaving and other crafts. Designated historical site by Illinois State Historical Society.
5. Volo Auto Museum & Antique Malls
27582 Volo Village Road
Volo, Illinois 60073 (815)385-3644
6. Gold Pyramid House
37921 Dilley's Road
Wadsworth, Illinois 60083 (847)662-6666
7. Tempel Lipizzans, Tempel Farms
17000 Wadsworth Road
Wadsworth, Illinois 60083 (847)623-7272
8. Cuneo Museum and Gardens
1350 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061 (847)362-3042
| 3803 Waukegan Rd. McHenry |
10308 Main Street Richmond 1908 |
5805 Broadway Richmond 1900 |
1. Muller Chapel (built 1878)
Wilmot & Ringwood Rd.
Johnsburg/McHenry
Widowed Mary Nett Miller built the chapel in 1878 in fulfillment of a promise to the Blessed Mother if she could raise her family "in the fear and love of God". Family services and weddings were held here. (This was built on their farm.)
2. St. John's Church Site (built 1842)
2303 West Church
Johnsburg/McHenry
The site of where this present third church (of Gothic architecture) was of importance to the first exclusively German Catholic Community of Johnsburg who recreated their German roots here. The first structure was a log cabin (1842), and subsequently 2 more structures were built on the same site.
3. Richmond Mill Site (built 1844)
5604 Mill St.
Richmond
The mill, built in 1844, by Cotting and Purdy was 35 x 40', 2 ˝ stories high. It was destroyed by fire in 1925. The plaque is on the site. It was an example of early water-powered, grain and flour mill. It was one of the earliest in the area. It is presently a restaurant.
4. Charles Cotting's #90 (built 1844)
Mill & Main St.
Richmond
When Cotting and his wife came to Richmond, which he helped lay out and plat, there were but 2 log cabins in place. This building with stone foundation was across from his mill and probably was a storeroom at one time. This house is thought to be the oldest grame house in Richmond.
5. Charles Cotting House (built 1865)
East Mill St.
Richmond
Excellent example of a well-to-do merchant's frame home in the Italianate style with an ornate trim including a square cupola. Built in 1865 and was occupied by Cotting until he died in 1883 and in continue family ownership for over 100 years.
6. Sarah Gibbs House (1886)
10313 West St.
Richmond
This unique home is one of few examples of Second Empire architecture in the area with its mansard roof. It has 7 gables which is an innovative variation of this style. Widow Sarah Gibbs had the house built at the age of 71. Her husband, Herman, was a decendent of a Revolutionary War general and was the town's inn-keeper. The stained glass windows across the street in the church were dedicated to Sarah by her granddaughter.
7. Community Church of Richmond(built 1902)
5714 Broadway
Richmond
This turn-of-the-century church is the only original church in Richmond still standing. Beautiful stained glass memorial windows highlight the first settlers and important people of the Village.
