Two Forest Preserve District of Will County initiatives, a major restoration project at Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve and the Be a Trailblazer campaign, received awards from the Chicago Wilderness Alliance.

The awards were presented recently during the Celebration of Conservation at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Chicago.

The Lockport Prairie restoration earned a platinum-tier Excellence in Ecological Restoration Program Award from the alliance.

“The commission has been impressed with your knowledgeable staff and their work,” the award notification stated. “Equally impressive is the support and organizational commitment of the Forest Preserve District of Will County and volunteers to restore the high-quality natural areas under your jurisdiction to their fullest potential.”

The 320-acre Lockport Prairie features globally rare dolomite prairie and wetlands that support federally endangered species, including the Hine’s emerald dragonfly, leafy prairie clover and lakeside daisy. It also shelters 11 state-listed plant species, the federally endangered rusty patched bumble bee, and Illinois’ largest spotted turtle population.

Juli Mason, the Forest Preserve’s director of conservation, said the award recognizes teamwork.

“In large part, this award recognizes the significant partnership of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the habitat restoration undertaken at the preserve,” she said. “It’s a pleasure to have our work together to restore the rare and unique habitats at Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve recognized.”

The District’s Be a Trailblazer campaign received the George B. Rabb Force of Nature Award, which honors exceptional efforts on behalf of nature in the region.

“These awards highlight bold and exceptional work being done on behalf of nature in our region,” according to the award notification. “The Be a Trailblazer Campaign stood out among a very strong slate of nominations.”

The public engagement program encourages people of all ages and abilities to explore nature through self-guided challenges. More than 2,000 participants have joined this year, completing photo, GPS-based and trivia missions, with over $10,000 in prizes awarded through support from The Nature Foundation of Will County and local sponsors.

“This award honors how the Be a Trailblazer campaign has connected people with nature and positively impacted their lives,” said Chad Merda, head of digital marketing strategy/engagement. “It has inspired more time outdoors, physical activity and learning about wildlife and the importance of protected open space.”

The Chicago Wilderness Alliance is a regional network of leaders, experts and conservation professionals from Southeast Wisconsin, Northeast Illinois, Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan working together on large-scale conservation to ensure a healthy, thriving region for people and nature.