Fen Overlook Area

Fens in Illinois are a rare and special type of wetland that forms in areas where groundwater rich in calcium and/or magnesium seeps out of the ground. These fens are home to specialized plants that can tolerate the alkaline water.  The “Eldamain-Schaeffer Road Fen” was identified as an important ecological remnant area by the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory in 1999 prior to the District’s acquisition of Subat Forest Preserve in 2001.  A floristic quality survey documented the presence of over 186 native species of plants and FQI score of 56.97.  Areas with FQI’s greater than 50 are extremely rare and are of paramount importance for conservation, as they represent less than 0.5% of the land area in the Chicago Region.  Some of the flowing perennials adapted to these conditions include Great angelica, Bristly aster, Panicled aster, Bulbous cress, Turtlehead, Marsh shield fern, Cardinal flower, Blue flag iris, and Great water dock. 

 

About Kendall County Forest Preserve District:

The Kendall County Forest Preserve District   is a local government agency within t  he State of Illinois dedicated to conserving natural areas and connecting people to nature.  The mission of the District is to acquire, preserve, and manage natural areas and open spaces, provide environmental education, and provide recreational opportunities for Kendall County residents.  The District currently owns 3,000 acres of land within 21-forest preserve areas.  Preserve areas are located primarily along the Fox River and its tributaries, and the Aux Sable Creek.  Preserve amenities and services include recreational trails, event venues, overnight campgrounds, picnic shelters, fishing ponds, educational programming, and horsemanship lessons.

For more information, visit http://kendallforest.com