Master Naturalist

close up photo of insect hole on tree

Cantankerous cavities

Most cavities in a tree are caused by some type of living organism, either an animal or a pathogen of some sort. Some cavities will only be found in dead trees or a portion of a live tree with dead wood. Other cavities can be in otherwise completely healthy trees. Let’s take a look at some of the...
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Tornado touching down over green field and buildings

Tornado trends

In today’s world, it appears that everyone has seen or experienced a tornado up close and personal, at least from all the video that is available on social media.  The fact is many people have only seen pictures or video and have not experienced a real tornado. However, their chances may be...
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white flowers on a tree

Grassland teaches a lesson on Callery Pear

Spring has sprung! Birds are active, insects are emerging, and the early bloomers are starting to show their bright flowers indicating the cold days of winter are almost behind us. You may notice the brilliant displays of blooming trees, particularly a white one, that feels like it is THE tree for...
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White man with dark beard in blue shirt and hat hiking with backpack

Tips for staying safe when hiking during hunting season

Illinois has some of the most beautiful areas to hike across the state. State parks alone have over 270 trails that total more than 700 miles. Each area of the state offers many different landscapes to enjoy. You may encounter rugged bluffs with waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park in northern...
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