Help keep the Prairie Trail litter free; become an Adopt-A-Trail partner.

The 26-mile Prairie Trail is enjoyed by hundreds of hikers,bikers and rollerbladers each year. For some, it’s an opportunity to get out and exercise, or to spend a little time with family or friends. For others, it’s a chance to visit the wilder sides of McHenry County, as portions of the trail run through woodlands, along streams and through both restored and remnant prairies.

Unfortunately, all these visitors tend to leave behind litter along the sides of the trail. Left unattended, litter is not only an ugly eyesore, but a potential pollutant to trailside streams and a danger to children, pets, and wild animals. Litter pollution is also an open invitation for even more vandalism and litter. That’s why Adopt-A-Trail partners are so important.

By adopting a particular section of the trail, Adopt-A-Trail volunteers make a commitment to walk their section at least once a month, picking up and bagging any litter they find during their patrol. Bags are then placed by the trailside for MCCD rangers to collect.

Adopt-A-Trail partners also report vandalism, damage, or dangerous conditions (such as broken limbs overhanging the trail) that they may find on their litter patrol.

In return, the name of the adopting agency, group or individual is posted along the adopted section of the trail.

For more information, contact the 815-338-6223.

Small commitments can make a big difference!