Serving Cook County

Encouraging Environmentally Sound Landscape Practices

Conservation@Home Cook County recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. This program is brought to you by the partnership of Forest Preserves of Cook County and University of Illinois Extension.

Through the Conservation@Home certification program, residents of Cook County have the opportunity to shape their private landscapes in a conservation-minded way with guidance and criteria provided for them. Please contact us if you are interested in a copy of our criteria.

The biggest reward for integrating sustainable practices on your property is being aware that you are contributing to clean water, rich soil and resilient ecosystems that support people and wildlife. The Conservation@Home certificate recognizes yards and sites that are conscientiously improving their area for the environment and humanity.

Cook County Yard Certification Process

For a one-time fee of $50, certified home gardeners will receive a Conservation@Home sign to post in their yard, a subscription to our seasonal newsletter, and early notifications/discounts during native plants sales. *Fee waivers are available for those with financial need. 

Procedure

1. Resident submits the application online
2. C@H Coordinator reviews the application and consults with resident
3. If it is determined that the resident is ready for a home visit, resident submits $50 fee
4. Evaluator conducts a phone interview and schedules home visit to last approximately one hour
5. Yard is evaluated and if certifiable, C@H sign is awarded
6. Resident begins receiving C@H perks