In order to protect all living things, the Environmental Defenders is dedicated to the preservation and improvement of the natural environment in McHenry County. As a grass roots organization, we are committed to building sound ecological relationships between people and the natural world that supports all life.
Update on our Styrofoam Recycling Program
Starting November 15, 2025, the Styrofoam Recycling Program is suspended.
Starting 11/15/2025, the Styrofoam Recycling Program will stop collecting Styrofoam and other materials like packing peanuts. Unfortunately, our trusted recycling partner can no longer take Styrofoam from our drop-off sites. We deeply apologize for any inconvenience. The Defenders are working on resources to help limit use of Styrofoam.
All Environmental Defenders Styrofoam drop-off sites will halt collection including: Algonquin Township Road District in Crystal Lake, City of Woodstock Public Works, Village of Algonquin Public Works Facility.
ENVIRONMENTAL BLOG
Latest News and Articles
OUR WORK
Current Initiatives
Community Composting
The Defenders advocates for community composting through our new compost drop-off site at the Blue Lotus Temple in Woodstock....
Energy for Everyone
Defenders plans to build a small solar farm through Solar for All on its Dean Street property in Woodstock....
Conversacion de Conservacion
A collaborative effort by groups that meet and plan special programs offered to our Latino community in McHenry County....
County Recycling Drives
Defenders partners with the County’s Department of Health in organizing and publicizing recycling drives for non-curbside recycling items....
Paddle the Kish
This special project works to clear the Kishwaukee River of natural and human made debris from the river in order to create a passable water trail through McHenry County....
River Clean-ups
Organized on an had-hoc basis or as an annual event, river clean-ups both protect our watershed while connecting people to water bodies. ...
Stream Crossing Signage
A grant supported program and partnership with the County’s Division of Transportation to build and place watershed indicator signs across all streams, creeks and rivers....
Monthly Restoration Workdays
A great way to be outdoors and contribute to the health of our planet through restoring the land. ...
OUR WORK
Current Initiatives
Community Composting
The Defenders advocates for community composting through our new compost drop-off site at the Blue Lotus Temple in Woodstock....
Energy for Everyone
Defenders plans to build a small solar farm through Solar for All on its Dean Street property in Woodstock....
Conversacion de Conservacion
A collaborative effort by groups that meet and plan special programs offered to our Latino community in McHenry County....
County Recycling Drives
Defenders partners with the County’s Department of Health in organizing and publicizing recycling drives for non-curbside recycling items....
Paddle the Kish
This special project works to clear the Kishwaukee River of natural and human made debris from the river in order to create a passable water trail through McHenry County....
River Clean-ups
Organized on an had-hoc basis or as an annual event, river clean-ups both protect our watershed while connecting people to water bodies. ...
Stream Crossing Signage
A grant supported program and partnership with the County’s Division of Transportation to build and place watershed indicator signs across all streams, creeks and rivers....
Monthly Restoration Workdays
A great way to be outdoors and contribute to the health of our planet through restoring the land. ...
