U 0f I extension holding winter gardening events in Naperville
The University of Illinois Extension is planning a free seed swap event from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the DuPage County Extension Office, 1100 E. Warrenville Road, Suite 170, Naperville.
Participants can get a jump on the growing season and bring seeds to share and swap with other gardeners.
A variety of free vegetable, flower, herb and native plant seeds will be available, according to a news release. It is preferred that seeds, which should be fresh and labeled, be dropped off at the office ahead of time, but they also can brought on the day of the event.
The event includes a chance to network with Master Gardener volunteers. Registration at extension.illinois.edu is encouraged.
A free pruning workshop will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at the DuPage County Extension Office by the DuPage County Master Gardeners.
Advice on when to prune different types of trees and shrubs, what pruners should be used and how to make the right cut will be offered. There also will be an opportunity to practice after the presentation.
Space is limited. Registration is required at go.illinois.edu/horticulturedkk.
Forest preserve district starts nature-themed experience
The Forest Preserve District of Will County is offering a new nature-themed outdoor experience in which participants complete missions for a chance at $10,000 in prizes to be randomly awarded.
“Be a Trailblazer in 2025” features four seasonal sessions containing several missions.
Missions include snapping selfies and photos of flora and fauna, visiting preserve sites and events, and taking part in district recreational activities, officials said in a news release.
The missions encourage residents to visit trails, experience other types of recreation, check out new locations, expand their healthy outdoor habits and appreciate the county’s open spaces, the news release said.
Interested participants should download the free Goosechase app to their phones and search for “Be a Trailblazer” or enter the code PQNL75.
The winter session runs through March 1. The spring session will take place April 10 to May 24 followed by the summer session from June 5 to Aug. 9 and the fall session from Sept. 25 to Nov. 8.
Points will be awarded for completed missions, and participants can compare their points with others on a leaderboard. Each mission earns an entry to win a T-shirt.
Prizes are not based on points, the district said. Prizes funded by the Nature Foundation of Will County include such items as kayaks, snow tubes, Fitbit fitness trackers, a Yeti cooler, tents and sleeping bags and fishing equipment. Gift cards and gift baskets have been donated by local businesses and organizations.
Forest preserve prizes include three half-day boat rentals and three family packs at Monee Reservoir.
For more information, go to www.reconnectwithnature.org.
