Natural Resource Education Center

The Natural Resource Education Center (NREC), located within the Russell Woods Preserve in Genoa, at the end of the gravel road, is DeKalb County’s only nature center and a cornerstone for environmental education in the region. Nestled along the scenic south branch of the Kishwaukee River, the center offers hands‑on learning experiences for both youth and adults.

Established in 1993, the NREC is supported through a partnership between University of Illinois Extension, the DeKalb County Forest Preserve (DCFP), and the DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District (DCSWCD). Through this collaboration, Extension provides staffing and educational leadership, DCFP supplies the facility, and both DCFP and DCSWCD contribute annual funding to sustain programming.

The center delivers a wide range of natural resource education opportunities, including field studies, classroom programs, summer camps, and family events. Camp Russell, a nature‑focused day camp for youth, is held each summer and engages participants in educational, hands‑on outdoor activities.

Signature annual programs at the NREC include NatureFest each spring, the Mother’s Day Flower Walk, and WinterFest.

Natural Resource Education Center

Upcoming Events

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.

NatureFest 2026 | May 16 | 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.

Wildlife is everywhere!

Learn about how you can support Illinois wildlife and navigate everyday encounters with research-based information you can trust. At Illinois Extension, our wildlife experts can help you navigate wildlife interactions with research-based information you can trust. Explore steps to take during an encounter, where to find wildlife, how to engage with stewardship opportunities, how to interact with nature safely, information about related careers, and more.

Wild Neighbors: Beavers—Nature's Engineers | Feb. 11 | Oregon

Learn about Beavers—Nature's Engineers at an interesting program given by Illinois Extension Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator, Peggy Anesi. Beavers bring many emotions. A child watching a beaver eat at the zoo is completely mesmerized. A naturalist studying their engineering ability is in awe. The landowner who just lost a giant tree, well, we can assume that feeling. There are winners and losers with all land management decisions. Whether it is a person making the decision or a BEAVER! One thing to remember is that beavers don't know that WE care. Call the Rock River Center to register for this FREE event: 815-732-3252.

Wild Neighbors: Coyotes | March 21 | Belvidere

Coyotes are one of the most misunderstood species in Illinois and the U.S. They evoke mixed feelings of fear, anger, and, for some, a sense of wild beauty. Coyotes are blamed for many things they do and do not do in our spaces. They should nonetheless receive the award for being the most likely to succeed, despite the human population. We have all but paved the road for the coyote’s historical expansion.

Come and learn more about this incredible animal and what you can expect from them in your neighborhood at this free program starting at 9:00 am at the Boone County Conservation District in Belvidere. Presented by Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator Peggy Anesi. Register here today!

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!

We believe individuals can learn to enjoy and appreciate nature and make informed stewardship decisions that benefit our community.