New Viewing Platform Proposed for Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve

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The Kane County Forest Preserve District is moving forward with plans to build a wildlife observation platform at Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve in Hampshire. Muirhead Springs is home to the District’s first wetland mitigation bank and has become a habitat for rare and endangered bird species following recent restoration work.  The 757 acre Preserve is situated in the heart of a rapidly developing critical growth band of townships located in central Kane County.

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As word of the site's success has spread among birders and other visitors, increased foot traffic has raised concerns about potential harm to both the birds and the wetland environment.

To help protect the site, the District has proposed a raised observation platform as part of the 2024 Land Acquisition and Preserve Improvement Referendum. 

The platform, to be built near the water and directly above the wetland area, is designed to allow visitors to view the birds and habitat while minimizing disturbance. It will also include access for people of varying abilities.   

The Forest Preserve Commission recently approved a contract for the platform’s design and for assistance in securing grant funding to help cover project costs.

Learn more about Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve at https://kaneforest.com/location/muirhead-springs