Help keep our trails litter free; become an Adopt-A-Trail partner.

The District trails are 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 a 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.

The flexible time commitment of the Adopt-A-Trail program makes it perfect for families, scout groups, clubs, school groups,
and businesses. Volunteers adopt a section of the Prairie Trail or a trail at a Conservation Site for one year and commit to walk their section at least once a month, bagging any litter they find. Volunteers also report any vandalism, damage or unsafe conditions they observe while on site. 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!