Managed Lands

In addition to its six nature preserves Open Lands also oversees the care and maintenance of 168 acres of City property and nearly 225 acres under conservation easement. These lands are managed as natural areas and provide important habitat as well as community benefits such as floodwater reduction.

Two of the City properties are of special note:

• The 61-acre McCormick Woods Nature Preserve is located east of Sheridan Road and south of McCormick Drive, just north of the old Fort Sheridan. Home to a number of rare plants, this is an example of the finest remaining Lake Michigan ravine forest.
   
• The 20-acre North Shore Prairie that runs alongside the North Shore bicycle path between Old Elm Road and Illinois Road. This is a relic prairie complex with many beautiful forbs and grasses.