Portions
of several Chicago public beaches are being allowed
to develop into minor dune and swale/panne systems
instead of being groomed for beach recreation. Native
plant species have begun to colonize these areas,
including several Illinois listed species. Five bird
species
nest in one dune site, and migrating birds include
the federally listed Piping Plover. Montrose Beach,
the most advanced dune system, has been designated
an Illinois Natural Areas Inventory site. A US Fish & Wilflife
grant for Loyola Beach will help create Piping Plover
habitat.
At
each site, volunteer stewards work with the Chicago
Park District to monitor rare plants and manage the
areas by controlling brush and invasive species. Vans
will travel up Chicago's lakeshore to Montrose Beach,
Osterman Beach and Loyola Beach, were we will have
lunch. Stewards Leslie Borns, Pam Holy and Ann Whelan
will meet us to tell the story of the ecology, plants
and animals, management and relations with the public
at their sites. A Chicago Park District representative
will discuss the working relationship with the District.
Trip
leader will discuss the context of rare plant monitoring
(Plants of Concern) in the Chicago Wilderness region.
We will have an opportunity to explore the dunes
and the plants. After lunch we will do some beach
roaming before the final tour of Loyola Beach dunes.
Trip easy to moderate. Bring extra water, hat, sunscreen,
shorts if you wish to wade. Box lunch included.
» Need
a Letter of Invitation?
E-mail Johanne » Apply
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» ASPB
Travel Grant Application Members of all societies
are invited to apply.
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Information
Meeting is registered with the US Department
of State
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