Chapters
Chapter 1
This Land is Your Land, This Land is My Land – An introduction
Chapter 2
In The Beginning – A brief natural and social history of our area
How the woods came to be and an explanation of various types of woodlands
The role of glaciers and the Des Plaines River
Early inhabitants and later settlers
Recent history and the observed ecological changes to our area
Chapter 3
What? Me Worry? The Value of Conservation – Changes to the complex ecosystems of the world frequently have far-reaching effects
Global warming, the medicinal value of endangered species, and changing water tables all make a difference in our lives
Woodland fragmentation, invasive animal and plant species, and ever-larger man-made structures and landscaping habits degrade the practical and aesthetic benefits of our woodland
The latest trend is to preserve and restore areas with native plantings
Do’s and Don’ts of woodland preservation
Natural restoration – possible almost everywhere – adds economic, social and aesthetic benefits to our personal lives
Chapter 4
Looking out the Window – The importance of native species to a healthy ecosystem and ways in which they can be established
Definition of “native” species and the benefits of reestablishing them
Steps to creating a native garden
Beware of planting “invasives”
Ground covers versus lawns – the pros and cons
Chapter 5
Milkweed, Paw Paw, Mint or Yarrow? – Choosing Which Plants to Grow – The more native plants you select, the easier and less expensive the upkeep and the better for ecological diversity
Grasses
Trees and shrubs
Woodland plants
Deer resistant strategies
Plants for attractive butterflies
Plants for attracting birds
Chapter 6
We Are In Their Backyard – Living in a woodland community means sharing the space with a wide variety of creatures – all here long before we were
General rules
Local mammals
Feathered friends
Insects
Reptiles & Amphibians
Chapter 7
Pass the Ibuprofen – The War Against Invasives – Some plants, animals, and insects are taking over and they must be managed in order for our woodlands to survive and thrive
General discussion of invasives
List and description of common invasive plants
List and description of invasive insects
Problematic animals
Chapter 8
Water, Water Everywhere … Not! – Whether from wells, Lake Michigan, or the Des Plaines River, water plays a critical role in the lives of Riverwoods residents, and its purity and abundance must be guarded
Where our water comes from – the ground water cycle
Well structure, maintenance, and water conditioning and safety
Protecting, using and conserving water resources
The Des Plaines River – recreation and protection
Chapter 9
Trees, Salt, Drainage & Mulch – Critical Management Issues– Maintaining a healthy woodland requires special consideration
Rules and recommendations for the care of trees in Riverwoods
Use of salt and alternative winter strategies
Flooding potential, storm water management, and wetland restrictions
Mulching materials and techniques
Chapter 10
Environmental Ordinances, Organizations and Preserves – To maintain, protect, and showcase the special ambiance of our area, the Village has provided rules and local volunteers have furthered the cause
Village rules pertaining to preservation
Local groups that promote environmental preservation
Riverwoods natures preserves
Chapter 11
A Hope and A Challenge – Be inspired to join the on-going effort to preserve our extraordinary natural heritage!
Chapter 12
Learn More – Sources to more information about our natural environment and native landscaping
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