Mission Statement
The McHenry County Conservation District exists to preserve, restore, and manage natural areas and open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the benefits to present and future generations.
Vision Statement
McHenry County Conservation District is a highly motivated and fiscally responsible organization composed of professional staff, volunteers, and a Board of Trustees.
We aspire to promote the long-term viability of the county’s biodiversity while encouraging and providing opportunities for responsible use of lands in concert with the natural resources.
The District inspires respect for the land community through exposing people to the wonders of nature and the knowledge of sound environmental practices.
We recognize that accomplishing these efforts requires working cooperatively with both public and private initiatives to promote sound stewardship practices.
Promoting Conservation, Education and Recreation
The McHenry County Conservation District owns or manages over 21,500 acres of open land diverse with woodlands, prairies, wetlands, ponds, creeks, and rivers. Twenty-seven sites are open to the public year-round featuring trails, picnic shelters, campsites, fishing areas, rare plant and animal examples, educational facilities and more. Within the District’s sites there are also 17 dedicated State Nature Preserves.