JDCF Speaker Series – Explore Rutherford Refuge

Rutherford Refuge at Twin Bridges Nature Preserve was dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve in 2021. This is an official status reserved for only the rarest and highest-quality natural areas in Illinois. Mowed hiking trails take visitors along a sedge meadow, through prairies home to incredible and rare native plants, and past impressive oak trees at this 25-acre preserve. During this event, you will view natural plant communities dating back thousands of years. Randy Nyboer, botanist, ecologist and supervisor of natural area surveys will tell you about these remnants of the past and lead a trail walk of the woodland, prairie and sedge meadow habitats.

Water provided. Wear sensible shoes for the walk, and bring a walking stick if you use one. There is a short moderate climb, but most of the 1-mile trail is gently elevated or flat. For your comfort, we are providing shade canopies and chairs for Randy’s talk. So we’ll know how many we need, please RSVP to info@jdcf.org.