Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Team

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The Natural Resources, Environment, & Energy team empowers Cook County residents to maximize the benefits of the natural environment by offering resources, education, and outreach. We work to provide outreach that increases awareness and action to sustain healthy environments and ecosystems that support quality living and resilient communities. 

Our programs are available to all county residents. They focus on environmental awareness, conservation, and resilient communities, and are supported by a dedicated team of Master Naturalist volunteers. We also collaborate closely with the Forest Preserves of Cook County, fostering a balanced connection between nature and community well-being. 

If you've got questions about best practices in environmental stewardship, you'll appreciate that our information is based on peer-reviewed science - the gold standard in determining the credibility and reliability of information.

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Featured Resources

Raccoon on birdfeeder

Living with Wildlife

Preventing problems with wildlife is simpler, and often cheaper, than dealing with wildlife damage.
Illinois native plant species in garden

Conservation @ Home

Cook County Extension offers a sustainable landscape certification program for residents along with resources to support your ecological efforts.
White-tailed deer

Living with White-tailed Deer

Collection of interesting facts and insights into the history and management of this animal common throughout Illinois.