Greater DuPage Chapter Events

Tour will be led by:
Kath Thomas, Friends of Hinsdale Prairie founder and volunteer steward
Kevin Blair, Bluebird Monitor HP, DuPage County Forest Preserve volunteer 

Hinsdale Prairie is a 2-acre remnant prairie enclosed by Illinois Route 83 on the west and the Village of Hinsdale on the east. On Jackson Street it runs north and south in a rectangle between 8th and 7th Streets. And uniquely, it can be viewed from the suburban sidewalk that defines the eastern edge.

Dr. Robert F. Betz successfully advocated for this prairie's preservation and long-term study with the Village of Hinsdale from the mid-1970s; he studied Hinsdale Prairie's plants and soils, identifying an Illinois endangered species, Lespedeza leptostachya (Prairie Bush Clover), and later welcoming Dr. Marlin Bowles from the Morton Arboretum who in 2000 planted a population of the endangered Asclepias meadii (Mead's Milkweed). Clues were found recently, but these species have not been sighted for many years. 

Dr. Gerould Wilhelm and Dr. Laura Rericha (now Dr. Rericha Anchor) conducted a research visit in the summer of 2015 while researching for their 2017 book, Flora of the Chicago Region. Dr. Wilhelm teaches here often.

The Hinsdale Historical Society has retained a newspaper clipping with chapter founder Pat Armstrong working alongside Betz at HP; Pat can tell us more at this gathering.

The diversity and richness of species at Hinsdale Prairie speaks strongly for advocacy to preserve and protect all remnant prairies especially in Illinois, the Prairie State.

Important details:

Tailgate refreshments will be served. 

Suggested Attire:  Dress in clothing that will discourage ticks so long pants, and socks are highly recommended.  Don't forget a hat and optional reusable bottle filled with your preferred beverage.

There are no restroom facilities.
 
Directions:
Google Maps lists this site just north of 55th Street.
Park on Jackson Street.
Prairie is on S. Jackson Street between 7th and 8th Street.