Winter Nature Series at RiverBank Lodge with Terri Treacy
Volunteer Habitat Restoration Project at Lincoln's New Salem Historic Site Terri Treacy will present a program regarding Menard County Trails & Greenways volunteer-driven removal of bush honeysuckle and other invasive species from designated project areas at Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site. Terri will explain how the project was initiated and the progress that has been made to date. Terri is the project leader and president of Trails & Greenways, a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. She and her husband, Michael Wiant, live in Petersburg. Light refreshments provided. RSVPs appreciated--217-632-0202
The wonderful watery world of river ecology! And, Chris Vallilo Concert!
Dive into the wonderful watery world of river ecology with Dr. Jason DeBoer, Large River Scientist with the Illinois Natural History Survey! Jason’s presentation will explain why rivers are important ecosystems, describe some of the threats our local rivers face, and explore some of the wild, weird, and downright wacky fish and other animals that call our rivers home. There’s bound to be a few ‘fish tales’ shared too, and definitely a lot of big-fish pictures! Immediately following Jason's presentation we're excited to bring to you Chris Vallilo, Chris is a singer/songwriter, and roots musician who makes the people and places of “unmetropolitan” America come to life in song. His recent project “Forgottonia” tells the story of West Central Illinois and, through song, brings to life the forgotten history of our rural region. If you know Chris, we already know you'll be there! If you haven't yet had the pleasure of experiencing a Chris Vallillo concert, you're in for a real treat--you do not want to miss it. This is the first in the 2025 Trails & Greenways' Ways to Discovery Chautauqua Series. RiverBank Lodge is fully accessible, ensuring everyone can participate.
Starhill Forest Arboretum Spring Work Day
Starhill Forest Arboretum 12000 Boy Scout Trail, Petersburg, Illinois, United StatesLend a hand at this annual volunteer event as we tackle spring tasks such as planting trees, unloading greenhouses, tidying trails, spreading mulch, removing invasive species, and more. Tools and training will be provided. At noon, socialize with Friends at a provided lunch. For more information, call 217-632-3685 or e-mail alana.mckean@ic.edu. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required, to help plan activities and lunch.
Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup
Join us for the Adopt-a-Highway cleanup on Saturday, April 12 at 9:00 AM to take care of our 2-mile IDOT Adopt-A-Highway segment that runs from the south edge of New Salem to the south end of Petersburg. With a full crew it should only take about an hour. Although we always meet at the main entrance to New Salem off Rte. 97, due to road work currently underway, this will likely change -- so check back here and/or Facebook for updates. Trash bags and safety vests supplied (if you have one our safety vests please bring it). Please wear gloves, long pants, closed-toed shoes or boots. See you there!!
Earth Explorers Festival
Three Pines Petersburg 510 W Sheridan Rd, Petersburg, IL, United StatesEvent for K thru 6 -- learn about the Earth through crafts and games! Event will take place at the Three Pines Petersburg barn -- rain or shine! Contact " target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anna for more information.