Ned Brown Forest Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ned Brown Forest Preserve |
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Busse Forest National Natural Landmark
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 Ned Brown Forest Preserve
Location in Illinois
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| Location | Cook County, Illinois |
| Nearest city | Schaumburg |
| Area | 3,700 acres (1,500 ha) |
The Ned Brown Forest Preserve, often called Busse Woods, is a huge natural area near Elk Grove Village and Schaumburg in Illinois. It's part of the Cook County Forest Preserve system and covers about 3,700-acre (1,500 ha) of land. This special place is named after Edward "Ned" Eagle Brown. A part of Busse Woods, called the Busse Forest Nature Preserve, is so important that it was named a National Natural Landmark in 1980. The entire Busse Forest Preserve was named after Cook County Commissioner William Busse in 1949.
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Amazing Plants and Trees at Busse Woods
Busse Woods is home to a beautiful, old Great Lakes hardwood forest. A special 440-acre (180 ha) part of the woods, known as the Busse Forest Nature Preserve, is famous for being a rare example of "flatwoods."
What are Flatwoods?
Flatwoods are a unique type of forest that grows on very flat, damp ground. This kind of land was once common in the Great Lakes region. Water drains slowly from these areas into nearby wetlands and streams, creating the perfect conditions for flatwoods to grow.
Trees in the Flatwoods
In the flatwoods of Busse Woods, you'll find trees like red maple, swamp white oak, and black ash. Sadly, the black ash trees are in danger from a tiny insect called the emerald ash borer. This insect was first seen in Illinois in 2006.
Other Forest Areas
Other parts of Busse Woods have drier ground. Here, you'll see trees more typical of northern Illinois forests. These include basswood, hickory, sugar maple, and white oak. The white oak is even the state tree of Illinois!
Fun Things to Do at Busse Woods
Busse Woods is a great place for outdoor activities! There are 10.4 miles (17 km) of paved trails, known as the Busse Woods Trail.
Biking and Walking Trails
You can enjoy a 7.3-mile (12 km) loop for biking and walking. There are also two extra paths that help people get into the preserve. These trails are perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Busse Lake
In the northwest and southwest parts of the preserve, you'll find Busse Lake. This is a large, 590-acre (240 ha) artificial lake. It helps control floods for Salt Creek. You can also see the tall skyscrapers of eastern Schaumburg from this area.
Helping the Preserve Stay Healthy
Many people care about keeping Busse Woods a beautiful and healthy place.
Friends of Busse Woods
The Friends of Busse Woods is a group that started in 2008. They work with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. Together, they help take care of Busse Woods.
Volunteer Efforts
Volunteers play a big role in keeping the preserve nice. They help remove invasive plants that can harm native plants. They also pick up trash and plant new native plants. Their hard work helps make sure Busse Woods stays a wonderful place for everyone to enjoy.
