February 26th marks the anniversary of the creation of Grand Canyon National Park, which tops the national parks for the number of native plant species. But this is also the day when I like to remind you that the Chicago region ranks higher than the Grand Canyon and EVERY OTHER other U.S. national park for that matter! We’re #1!

Come to the 2023 Wild Things Conference scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 25 in Rosemont at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. The event is designed for nature enthusiasts like yourself. You’ll learn about our region’s wondrous flora, fauna, and natural history from dozens of passionate presenters, including myself.

This is our final wildflower forecast of the season and our Fall Color Preview. It’s time to experience the final blooms of the season and to plan your fall color outings around Chicago.

Get out and experience the final dramatic blooms of the year. September is the Month of Gold in many of our prairies and oak savannas, but actually offer a variety of colors from pinks and purple to rusts and reds.

September is the Month of Gold as the sunflowers and goldenrods steal the shows. However, while some preserves turn to gold, while others paint themselves with pink and purple. Immerse yourself in the colorful, whimsical, wonderful world of Chicago nature.