Forest Preserves of Cook County 2025 Winter Brochure

While many people rest and rejuvenate during the Midwest winter, for restoration crews it’s often the busiest season of the year. The cold months are when the Forest Preserves’ heavy machinery rolls out to tackle invasive species and clear the way for healthy ecosystems to thrive. “Winter gives us a unique window to do the heavy lifting of restoration,” says Forest Preserves Resource Management Director John McCabe. With vegetation frozen or dormant, the ground in winter is less vulnerable to disturbance and erosion. At the same WORKHORSES of Winter How Big Machines Restore the Forest Preserves Image: Skid steers help remove invasive plants and pile brush for burning. 18 While many people rest and rejuvenate during the Midwest winter, for restoration crews it’s often the busiest season of the year. The cold months are when the Forest Preserves’ heavy machinery rolls out to tackle invasive species and clear the way for healthy ecosystems to thrive. “Winter gives us a unique window to do the heavy lifting of restoration,” says Forest Preserves Resource Management Director John McCabe. With vegetation frozen or dormant, the ground in winter is le s vulnerable to disturbance and erosion. At the same HORSES f i t How Big Machines Restore the Forest Preserves Image: Skid st ers help remove invasive plants and pile brush for bur ing. 18