The Sibley Burr Oak Grove, with trees as old as 390 years, is the best remaining example of a mesic savanna, pond, marsh, and prairie complex in east-central Illinois. The East Central Illinois Master Naturalists have teamed up with The Nature Conservancy and The Illinois Nature Preserve Commission to help restore the historic site. Master Naturalists work one-on-one with community members to remove invasive species and other small woody plants that hinder the grove's ecological goals. This project engages local youth to encourage them to care for the natural areas around them. The Boy Scouts of Sibley join workdays to help in restoration efforts. There is also a large education component with the surrounding community exploring both the importance of these ecologically rare sites and restoration techniques and processes.
Learn more about the Master Naturalists in Ford County.
