MCCD Releases Info On Winter Activities

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — For McHenry County residents hoping to get out and about this winter, the McHenry County Conservation District has some options for outdoor fun. Here is a look at upcoming events planned through the conservation district:

Backyard Birds of Winter

Sunday, Jan. 19, 2 to 3 p.m.: Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood. It’s the time of year where most birds have migrated south to escape the cold, but some stay here and tough out the winter. Learn about the birds that stick around all year and may even call your backyard “home”. We will make a bird feeders for you can take home to give our feathered friends a winter treat. Fee: County resident $3/non-resident $5. For Adults and Families. Registration required.

Discovery Days

Wednesday, January 22 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake. Enjoy an hour of fun that includes a game, craft, snack and educational activities based around the special theme of the day. A short hike will be included, weather permitting. Fee: County resident free/non-resident $5. Just for kids ages 2 to 6 years old with chaperone. Registration required.

Evergreen Hike: Marengo Ridge

Saturday, January 25 from 1:30–3 p.m. at Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, 2411 N. IL Route 23, Marengo. While evergreens are not native to McHenry County, we do have an excellent sampling of species at Marengo Ridge, thanks to Dr. Kunde. Learn more about the man who planted all the trees, as well as the trees themselves on this one mile hike. Fee: County resident Free/NR $2.00. Just for Adults, ages 14 years and older. Registration required.

Paint & Sip: Capture a Live Owl on Canvas

Saturday, January 25 from 7–8:30 p.m. at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake. Join a local artist from Muse Art of Crystal Lake for a paint and sip experience as you capture the image of a live owl on canvas. District staff will give a brief presentation about the life of the owl prior to painting per the step by step instruction of the artist. All painting supplies, as well as light snacks and soft drinks provided. No experience necessary! BYO favorite wine or beer with valid ID. Fee: County resident $40.00/NR $50.00. Just for Adults, ages 21 years and older. Registration required.

Winter Constellations

Friday, January 31 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake. Who is Orion and what is his story? Have you heard of the Seven Sisters? Just how are their stories intertwined? Under a hushed winter sky learn to identify a few major constellations and hear the stories behind them. Dress for the weather and be prepared to be outside for part of the program. Fee: County resident Free/NR $5.00. For Adults and Families. Registration required.

Frozen

Saturday, February 1 from 1:30–3 p.m. at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood. Do you want to build a snowman? Or learn how no two snowflakes are the same? Or even make instant ice? Come test your “frozen powers” and see all the amazing properties water has in the winter time. Fee: County resident free/non-resident $5. Just for Kids ages 8–12. Registration required.

Visit the District’s website at www.MCCDistrict.org to view all program and event offerings or sign up to receive the seasonal magazine Landscapes. Register online, by phone (free programs only) at (815) 479-5779, by mail-in and drop-off at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake, or drop-off only at Lost Valley Visitor Center, Route 31 and Harts Rd. in Ringwood