Mission: Since its establishment in 1967, the association has acquired, preserved, restored and maintained over 800 acres of highly diverse native landscapes including prairies, savannas, ravines, woodlands and wetlands for the benefit and enjoyment of the local community. We continue our efforts to restore the land to its historical landscape and maintain these critical habitats. In addition, to promote a connection between the community and the land within it, our preserves are home to over 12 miles of walking trails which are open to the public year round. The association also provides naturalist-led environmental education to school children and special workshops to children, adults and families. Our environmental education programs are designed to develop an understanding of and a love and respect for the natural world around us by including hands-on, participatory activities in a natural setting. The association also promotes the scientific study of our preserves.
Lake Forest Open Lands Association is an accredited land trust. Accreditation means Lake Forest Open Lands Association meets national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Lake Forest Open Lands Association has demonstrated to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission its commitment to excellence. Accredited land trusts meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. These land trusts demonstrate their commitment to excellence by adopting Land Trust Standards and Practices, the ethical and technical guidelines for the responsible operation of a land trust, and meeting the accreditation requirements drawn from them. Learn More: http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/about.
