Date 10/29/2008

FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OFFERS SPEAKERS’ BUREAU

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County invites clubs, businesses and civic groups to learn about its 60 forest preserves, five education centers, and year-round programs and events through its Nature’s Ambassadors Speakers’ Bureau, which runs annually from November through April 15.

Groups can request speakers to attend upcoming meetings by calling 630-933-7246 but need to do so at least 30 days in advance.

Five established 30-minute programs are free of charge; each speaker provides relevant publications and allows time for questions. Other topics may be available upon request.

“Open Spaces” is a general introduction to the District’s mission of conservation, education and recreation; “Restoring Nature’s Treasures” provides specific insight into its natural-resource-management efforts. “Wildlife Neighbors” explores harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife in DuPage County, and “Pathways to Education” features programs at the District’s five education centers. “Volunteers Make a Difference” introduces ways individuals and families can assist with nine different programs, from helping to manage natural areas or support an 1890s living-history farm to assisting trail users or caring for injured wildlife.

The one-hour “Hunters of the Sky,” which has a $75 fee, discusses DuPage raptors and features live birds of prey from Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn.