Peggy Anesi
Natural Resources, Environment and Energy Educator
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Wildlife
Water
Environment
Native Plants
815-784-2000
Natural Resource Education Center
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The Natural Resources Education Center (NREC) in Russell Woods Preserve in Genoa is the only nature center in DeKalb County and provides an environmental education experience for area school children and adults. It is situated on the scenic south branch of the Kishwaukee River.
In 1993, University of Illinois Extension, DeKalb County Forest Preserve (DCFP), and the DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) created the Natural Resource Education Consortium to support natural resource education in DeKalb County. University of Illinois Extension created a staff position, the DCFP provided the building, and, along with SWCD, supported the programming with an annual grant. The University of Illinois Extension staffs the center and delivers natural resource education, including field studies, classroom visits, summer camps, and family programs. Annual events held at the NREC include NatureFest in the spring, the Mother's Day Flower Walk, and WinterFest in the winter.
Natural Resource Education Center
Upcoming Events
WinterFest 2026 | Jan. 17
Join the staff and volunteers of the Natural Resource Education Center (NREC) for a full day of winter fun in the woods! Learn birding tips and tricks, explore the preserve with a guided forest hike, discover nature topics, test your knowledge during the nature trivia game, and enjoy crafts and face painting. Also, can you complete the Un-natural Nature Trail or the Scavenger Hunt? Festivities begin at 9 AM. Celebrate the season, connect with nature, and make lasting memories with your family and community!
NatureFest 2026 | April 25 | SAVE the DATE
Explore Russell Woods Forest Preserve and the Natural Resource Education Center from 9 AM to 2 PM. Families take part in multiple hands-on learning activities. Come see T.J. the tortoise, the live animal displays, and hike the trails! More information to come.
Mother's Day Flower Walk | May 9 | SAVE the DATE
On the day before Mother's Day, come out to the guided wildflower walks at the NREC in Russell Woods Forest Preserve. The guided walks will start on the hour, starting at 10 AM. The last walk will start at 1 PM. Check back in April for more details.
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January 4 | 1 PM
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The Invisible Mammal
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The Invisible Mammal
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Against the backdrop of a global pandemic and the sixth mass extinction, filmmaker Kristin Tièche explores the crucial roles that bats play in our shared environment, and how a team of women bat scientists set out to save a North American bat species from a deadly fungal disease called white-nose syndrome (WNS) to create a better future for both bats and humans. At once a nature film, a science film, and a character-driven adventure film, The Invisible Mammal will immerse you in the world of bats and forever change the way you feel about these amazing little creatures.
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Film Screening Event
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DeKalb County Farm Bureau, 1350 W Prairie Dr in Sycamore
Illinois Extension Forestry
The Extension Forestry program, housed in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, provides forestry and natural resources education, technical assistance, programming, and awareness.
Wildlife is everywhere!
Learn about how you can support Illinois wildlife and navigate everyday encounters with research-based information you can trust.
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In one year, Program Coordinator Marian Termini welcomed nearly 1,100 visitors to the NREC in addition to hosting special events and programs. Exposure to nature has been linked to numerous benefits, including lower stress, improved mood, stronger immunity, enhanced vision, and a calmer mind. Stop by and visit the NREC today!
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We believe individuals can learn to enjoy and appreciate nature and make informed stewardship decisions that benefit our community.
