Forest preserve permits go on sale Jan. 3

The Forest Preserve District of Will County will begin selling 2023 picnic and camping permits at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, both online at ReconnectWithnature.org and at the Sugar Creek Administration- tion Center in Joliet. Permits will be available at the other visitor centers starting at 10 a.m. Jan. 3, or, in the case of Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook, Jan. 4.

Forest Preserve programs high- light winter rec, woodpeckers and more

What can you do in the Forest Preserve District of Will County in winter? A lot! To learn more, check out these upcoming pro- grams, including a webinar on winter recreation in the preserves. Online registration is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org. Here is the lineup:

Winter Recreation (Zoom Webinar):6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan.11, online. This Zoom program features information on hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating and wildlife viewing in the preserves. Free, ages 16or older. Register online for the Zoom link.

Volunteer Morning: 9 a.m.- noon Thursday, Jan. 12, Riverview Farmstead Preserve, Naperville. Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in your community. Activities will include removing invasive woody plants. Space is limited, and registration is required. To get started, complete a waiver online at ReconnectWithNature.org. For information, contact Emily Kenny at 815-722-7364 or [email protected].

Morning Bird Hike: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, Plum Creek Na- ture Center, Crete Township. Get your 2023 bird list started with a hike. Join other birders to learn, explore and search for winter residents in the preserve. This hike highlights birds that spend their winters in the woodlands and fields. Bring your binoculars and favorite bird guide. New bird- ers are welcome. Free, ages 16 or older. Register by Jan. 13.

Cocoa or Joe Hike: 9-10 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Bolingbrook. Embrace the cold and quiet winter morning with a guided hike around the nature center. After the hike, visit the fire and sip a complimentary cup of hot cocoa or joe. Free, all ages. Register by Jan. 12.

Little Explorers – Colors of Winter: 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon. Bring your preschoolers to Four Rivers to explore the colors of winter with a story, a hike, hands-on activities, crafts and free play. Dress for indoor and outdoor activities. Free, ages 3-5. Register by Jan. 17.

Take a Break With Woodpeckers (Zoom Webinar): noon-12:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, online. Grab your lunch and enjoy a quick, 30-min- ute program about woodpeckers. Learn about the types of wood- peckers you may see this season and how to attract them to your backyard. Free, ages 10 or older. Register online for the Zoom link. For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.