The Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards have had many big accomplishments over the past year!
In March of 2023, the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission designated 572 acres of the Poplar Creek site as the Poplar Creek Land and Water Reserve. This significant achievement is a direct result of the quality of our restoration and dedicated efforts of our many volunteers over the past 34 years.
In 2023, we also registered and are now recognized as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Public Charity, which enables us to receive tax-deductible donations and to apply for grant funding.
We are pleased with how quickly our efforts have come to fruition: in the Fall of 2023, we received a Community Stewardship Challenge Grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF). This award is facilitating the restoration of 11 acres in the Eastern Woods of the Schaumburg Road Grasslands, blending our regular volunteer workdays with professional clearing and ongoing site management in partnership with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we reached our fundraising goal, unlocking the full potential of the ICECF grant. This success is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together.
As we celebrate these victories, we’re also setting our sights on the new challenges and opportunities that await. While the matching funds campaign for the ICECF grant has reached its goal, restoration and preservation work is ongoing. Every dollar you contribute fuels our mission, enabling us to continue our vital work in the woodlands, prairies, and wetlands of Northwest Cook County, Illinois.
We’re inspired by the passion and support of our volunteers and donors, and we’re eager to propel forward with your continued support.
Contribute Now to be a part of our continued story of conservation and stewardship.
Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards 