Forest Preserves of Cook County’s Post

Big things are happening in the Palos Preserves! Yesterday, President Toni Preckwinkle joined Interim General Superintendent Eileen Figel, Senator Bill Cunningham, and other elected officials and partners to tour our largest ecological restoration project ever—both in acreage and investment. Thanks to a generous $10 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, we will restore approximately 1,100 acres of natural land as well as reconstruct portions of the largest trail system in the Forest Preserves. Improvements also include erosion mitigation and accessibility upgrades, installation of sustainable drainage structures, and improved wayfinding markers. Learn more about this exciting project: https://lnkd.in/g8fe_8fy

The sun was shining as we kicked off Earth Month at our 2nd Annual Trash Bash on Saturday with President Preckwinkle! Folks came through with electronics, Styrofoam, medications, bikes and more to sustainably—and safely—get rid of unwanted items while keeping things out of our waste stream. We are immensely grateful to our many partners for joining us for such a fantastic start to the month, and especially appreciative of all the participants who donated and helped clean up our Preserves! Interested in celebrating Earth Month with us? Find an event: https://lnkd.in/ewDpHvZW

After 13 impactful years, we say farewell to Arnold Randall, General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. While working for the Forest Preserves, Randall assisted in crafting a strategic conservation plan for the next century of the Forest Preserves. His leadership has greatly improved and strengthened our efforts toward the restoration and protection of Cook County's natural lands. Advocating for the preservation of 70,000 acres, Randall leaves a lasting imprint on Cook County's conservation. Listen to reflections on a decade of leadership and conservation in this insightful interview with WBEZ Chicago. To listen, visit https://bit.ly/42golq3.

How does a 70,000-acre office sound?    At the Forest Preserves of Cook County, our mission is to protect diverse habitats across Cook County and connect the public to nature. We offer a generous benefits package to full-time employees, including medical, dental and vision insurance; vacation and paid holidays; a pension; deferred compensation; and more. Whether you’re interested in using your research skills, trade skills, or playing a vital role in protecting nature and our visitors, there are plenty of ways to use your skills and advance your career while spending time in nature! Current positions include: -      Police Officer, Law Enforcement Department -      Tow Truck Operator & Repairperson, Facilities & Fleet Department -      Plumber, Facilities & Fleet Department -      Senior Research Technician, Resource Management Department -      Wildlife Research Supervisor, Resource Management Department Learn more about these positions and how to apply at fpdcc.com/jobs. #Hiring #NowHiring

Interested in learning more about doing business with the Forest Preserves of Cook County and other government agencies? Join us at the City of Chicago 2024 Construction Summit on Thursday, Feb 22! This outreach gathering presents a chance for prime contractors, sub-contractors, and business owners to gain insights into forthcoming contracting prospects and establish connections with peers in the field. Tailor your Summit experience to suit your specific business requirements. For more information and to register, visit https://bit.ly/3RNtnWh.

After a transformational 13-year tenure with the Forest Preserves of Cook County, General Superintendent Arnold Randall has announced he is stepping down from his position in January. “Arnold has been a calm, collaborative and strategic leader, always looking for how to advance the mission of the Forest Preserves of Cook County: protect our natural places and connect more people to nature,” says President Toni Preckwinkle, who appointed Randall to the role in 2010. During General Superintendent Randall’s tenure, the Forest Preserves has become a more transparent and accountable government agency, with increased commitments to restoring and protecting Cook County’s most precious natural areas, sustainability, and racial equity, diversity and inclusion. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gd_xDxNi

We’re so excited to celebrate the individuals and programs recognized with a CHICAGO WILDERNESS ALLIANCE George B. Rabb Force of Nature Award! This year, Forest Preserves staff and programs were recognized for their dedication to protecting nature and continued efforts to engage diverse Cook County residents. We are so proud of all the awardees, especially these incredible colleagues and programs: - Cathy B. Geraghty, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Forest Preserves of Cook County - Raquel García-Álvarez and Xochitl Lopez, Volunteer Site Stewards for Forest Preserves of Cook County - Youth Outdoor Ambassadors Program, Forest Preserves of Cook County Each year, the Force of Nature Awards celebrate people and organizations whose conservation, restoration, advocacy, and/or educational activities are inspirational examples for others. Learn more around the winners: https://lnkd.in/g2g95Ud2

Today, the Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners unanimously approved our 2024 budget without amendments. This $188.7 million budget marks a new financial era for the Forest Preserves, and we will continue to protect our natural spaces for all Cook County residents. Review: https://t.co/YwY8ihJPUr