Encouraging Environmentally Sound Landscape Practices

Conservation@Home Cook County recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. Through the Conservation@Home certification program, residents of Cook County have the opportunity to shape their private and community landscapes in a conservation-minded way with guidance and criteria provided for them. Below you will find criteria for homes, schools, and community settings. 

This program is brought to you by the partnership of Forest Preserves of Cook County and University of Illinois Extension's Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy and Horticulture teams.

More Environmental Programs

Cook County Yard Certification Process

For a one-time fee of $50, certified 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 who need them.

Steps for Certification:

1. Resident submits application.
2. Conservation@Home program staff review application.
3. If applicant is not ready for certification, resources are provided.
4. If applicant is ready for certification, resident pays $50 fee.
5. Resident schedules a yard/property visit.**
6. C@H evaluators visit property.
7. If criteria is met, Conservation@Home sign is awarded to resident.

**Currently property visits/evaluations are paused until spring. We accept applications over the winter (or any time!), and on-site evaluations start up again in spring 2026.

Conservation@Home on the Road

Request Conservation@Home programming for your next event! Our knowledgeable staff and volunteers can offer presentations and host tables to help spread the program's message throughout Cook County.

Event Request Form

Native Landscape Design Workshop

Every year, University of Illinois Extension in Cook County holds this workshop series in January and February. If you are interested in being notified when registration for our 2027 program is open, please fill out this form! We will send you an email when registration opens for the workshop. Note: You will still need to sign up for the workshop itself when it opens up, should you wish to participate.

Interest List for 2027 Native Landscape Design Workshop