Forest Preserve's 'Buzz' Nature Show Touts The Benefits Of Nature

April’s episode of “The Buzz,” the Forest Preserve District of Will County's monthly nature show, features the benefits of being outside, how you can participate in the District's outdoor challenges, and tips for tracking wildflower bloom times.

“So many studies support that spending time outdoors is beneficial for both our physical and mental health,” said program host Suzy Lyttle, a Forest Preserve program manager.

The episode debuts at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, on the Forest Preserve’s Facebook and YouTube pages. The show also will air on WJYS TV at 9 p.m. Friday, April 28, and at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 6, courtesy of funding from The Nature Foundation of Will County. Local cable stations also carry the show in Joliet, Naperville, New Lenox, Romeoville and Tinley Park.

In addition to urging people to get outside, Lyttle said April’s show will review tips for staying safe in the outdoors and Jen Guest, the Forest Preserve’s recreation coordinator, will describe the many recreational activities visitors can enjoy in the preserves.

“We cover hiking, biking, fishing, paddling and more,” Lyttle said. “My favorite is paddling. Being on the water is just my happy place."

The show also will highlight programs coordinated by Guest including the Will County Triple Crown Hiking Challenge, the bike recreation club, the fall Woods Walk hiking challenge, and the Take it Outside Challenge.

April’s Buzz Bit will inform people on how to track spring wildflowers.

“I have been tracking my favorite flower locations since 2012 and will give viewers a few tips on how to get in on the action,” Lyttle said.

If you want to watch the previous 'Buzz' episode from March, and all other 'Buzz' shows, visit the Forest Preserve's YouTube playlist for the show.