Letter From the Chairman

Founded in 1972, The Conservation Foundation is one of the region's oldest and largest not-for-profit land and watershed conservation organizations dedicated to preserving open space, improving rivers and watersheds and promoting positive environmental activities in DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will Counties, Illinois. Together with more than 3,500 members and donors, and more than 500 volunteers, The Foundation works in partnership with corporations, schools, forest preserve districts, county and municipal governments, and individuals to preserve open space that will provide an invaluable resource for generations to come.

The counties of DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will represent 1.2 million acres and 1.8 million individuals. This area contains an abundance of resources including rivers, prairies, wetlands, and woodlands that provide refuge for thousands of plants and animal species. The rich tapestry that makes up the Illinois landscape is a heritage passed to us by those who came before us and our stewardship of that tapestry will determine the heritage we pass on to generations to come.

The Conservation Foundation provides a reasoned voice on conservation issues throughout the four county area. We believe in seeking that balance among many interests that will best serve the long-term needs of our residents and our environment. Led by a Board of Directors made up of business and corporate leaders, conservationists, and concerned citizens, our professional staff of eight draws on more than sixty-five years of experience in land and watershed preservation, environmental education and advocacy. More than 500 volunteers contribute thousands of hours of effort to our causes each year.

With the rapid pace of development in our counties, we must work tirelessly to conserve significant natural areas and open spaces and to improve our watersheds. Together, we can and will make not just a difference, but also a tangible, significant difference as we work to save the land and rivers that we all treasure so deeply. Our quality of life, and that of our children and their children, is dependent on us.

Mission and Vision

History and Founders

People

Board of Trustees
Leadership Board
Advisory Council
Our Staff

McDonald Farm

Dickson-Murst Farm

Finances and Policies