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X-WR-CALNAME:Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mcdef.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250614
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250616
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250318T203546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T203546Z
UID:4420-1749859200-1750031999@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Woodstock Pridefest
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/woodstock-pridefest/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/withdateright.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250616
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250623
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250618T212617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T212617Z
UID:4753-1750032000-1750636799@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Pollinator Week
DESCRIPTION:It’s Pollinator Week in McHenry County! Join us in celebration! \n\nPollinator Week is celebrated June 16-22. Under the inspiring theme “Pollinators Weave Connections\,” this year’s event urges us to appreciate the important role pollinators play. These essential creatures\, including bees\, butterflies\, moths\, beetles and hummingbirds\, are the unsung heroes behind the food we enjoy and the beauty that surrounds us. \nHere in McHenry County\, a coalition of conservation groups and local libraries are sponsoring film showings\, walks\, celebrations and stewardship events- all connected to understanding the vital role that pollinators play in our ecosystems\, economies and agriculture. Find the full schedule of activities at tinyurl.com/2025PollinatorWk. \nOver the course of the week\, eleven local libraries will host showings of What’s the Rush?\, a special video presentation from Professor Doug Tallamy on the Homegrown National Park Movement. By creating native habitat\, you can help restore nature while experiencing the joy and fulfillment of connecting with the world around you. \nEach film showing will be followed by a presentation on available local resources and Q & A session. There will be a drawing for a pocket pollinator garden plant collection provided by Small Waters Education at each library event. \n🐝🦋🌳☀️🌎🪲 \nRead more about Pollinator Week at pollinator.org/pollinator-week and the Homegrown National Park Movement at homegrownnationalpark.org
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/pollinator-week/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Pollinator-Weed-Post-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250619
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250620
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250618T205815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T210517Z
UID:4741-1750291200-1750377599@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:OFFICE CLOSED
DESCRIPTION:– OFFICE CLOSED FOR JUNETEENTH –\n\n\n\nOn June 19\, 1865\, Union troops arrived in Galveston\, Texas with the news that the more than 250\,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis day came to be known as Juneteenth — a time to celebrate\, gather as a family\, reflect on the past and look to the future.\n\n\n\n\n\n#Juneteenth has always been more than a holiday. The day stands as a testament to and celebration of the unyielding spirit of a people. Learn more and join in the celebration with @NMAAHC: nmaach.si.edu/Juneteenth
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/office-closed/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/1-e1750280704274.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T110000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20220208T200838Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T225441Z
UID:3942-1750582800-1750590000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Sterne’s Fen Restoration Workday
DESCRIPTION:THE GROUP\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe meet once a month at Sterne’s outdoor pavilion\, 5617 Hillside Dr. from 9-11AM.  Volunteers have a chance to learn about restoration ecology and what makes Sterne’s Fen special.  Please bring a water bottle and a pair of work gloves.  The park district will supply loppers and bow saws.  Invasives like honeysuckle and buckthorn are crowding out the native fen species.  The brush also prevents the use of controlled burns on the fen. Email Brice Alt\, volunteer site steward\, to receive a monthly workday reminder: bricemaieralt@hotmail.com. \n \nTHE PARK \nSterne’s Woods & Fen became an Illinois State Nature Preserve in 1994 to preserve and protect its unique ecology.  A fen is a rare type of wetland in which cold groundwater that is high in calcium and magnesium seeps to the surface.  The unique water chemistry supports plants that grow nowhere else.  Sterne’s Fen is home to at least 10 rare or endangered plant species.  The surrounding parkland acts as a buffer to the fen and includes prairie\, oak savanna\, and flatwood ecosystems.  Every one of those ecosystems can benefit from the efforts of volunteers.  Join us once a month and learn about them! \n \nTHANK YOU \nMuch thanks to the local groups who have volunteered with us at Sterne’s:  the MUDD trail running club\, the Silver and Sleepy Hollow Creeks Watershed Coalition\, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County\, the BREAK\, Jacobs High School Interact\, Crystal Lake South Elementary\, Girl Scout Troop 888\, Cub Scout Pack 156\, and Boy Scout Troops 158 and 368.  We can accommodate community groups!  Just give us a heads-up of how many volunteers to expect. \nNEWS \nA video about Sterne’s Fen: https://youtu.be/DMVPl80PDQ0 \nPark district updates:  https://www.crystallakeparks.org/project-updates#SternesFen\nWho was Ted Sterne?  The Crystal Lake Historical Society article: https://www.dropbox.com/s/h61unofnnnx06kg/Ted%20Sterne%20.pdf?dl=0\nECOLOGIC RESTORATION \nBy volunteering at a Sterne’s workday you’re helping with the ecologic restoration of an exceedingly rare type of habitat. \nTo learn more about restoration ecology\, here’s a quick video: https://youtu.be/VNwQ6cRMTKI \nSterne’s Fen has a management plan: https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ekp2nfniddn1d6/1989%20management%20plan.pdf?dl=0
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/sternes-fen-restoration-workday/2025-06-22/
LOCATION:Sternes Woods Park\, 5617 Hillside Rd\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
CATEGORIES:Work Days and Clean-ups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Group-Garlic-Mustard-Pull_1x1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T110000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250509T201259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T201311Z
UID:4553-1750582800-1750590000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Sterne’s Fen Restoration Workday
DESCRIPTION:THE GROUP\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe meet once a month at Sterne’s outdoor pavilion\, 5617 Hillside Dr. from 9-11AM.  Volunteers have a chance to learn about restoration ecology and what makes Sterne’s Fen special.  Please bring a water bottle and a pair of work gloves.  The park district will supply loppers and bow saws.  Invasives like honeysuckle and buckthorn are crowding out the native fen species.  The brush also prevents the use of controlled burns on the fen. Email Brice Alt\, volunteer site steward\, to receive a monthly workday reminder: bricemaieralt@hotmail.com. \n \nTHE PARK \nSterne’s Woods & Fen became an Illinois State Nature Preserve in 1994 to preserve and protect its unique ecology.  A fen is a rare type of wetland in which cold groundwater that is high in calcium and magnesium seeps to the surface.  The unique water chemistry supports plants that grow nowhere else.  Sterne’s Fen is home to at least 10 rare or endangered plant species.  The surrounding parkland acts as a buffer to the fen and includes prairie\, oak savanna\, and flatwood ecosystems.  Every one of those ecosystems can benefit from the efforts of volunteers.  Join us once a month and learn about them! \n \nTHANK YOU \nMuch thanks to the local groups who have volunteered with us at Sterne’s:  the MUDD trail running club\, the Silver and Sleepy Hollow Creeks Watershed Coalition\, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County\, the BREAK\, Jacobs High School Interact\, Crystal Lake South Elementary\, Girl Scout Troop 888\, Cub Scout Pack 156\, and Boy Scout Troops 158 and 368.  We can accommodate community groups!  Just give us a heads-up of how many volunteers to expect. \nNEWS \nA video about Sterne’s Fen: https://youtu.be/DMVPl80PDQ0 \nPark district updates:  https://www.crystallakeparks.org/project-updates#SternesFen\nWho was Ted Sterne?  The Crystal Lake Historical Society article: https://www.dropbox.com/s/h61unofnnnx06kg/Ted%20Sterne%20.pdf?dl=0\nECOLOGIC RESTORATION \nBy volunteering at a Sterne’s workday you’re helping with the ecologic restoration of an exceedingly rare type of habitat. \nTo learn more about restoration ecology\, here’s a quick video: https://youtu.be/VNwQ6cRMTKI \nSterne’s Fen has a management plan: https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ekp2nfniddn1d6/1989%20management%20plan.pdf?dl=0
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/sternes-fen-restoration-workday-3/
LOCATION:Sternes Woods Park\, 5617 Hillside Rd\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
CATEGORIES:Work Days and Clean-ups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/sterns-woods-workday.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T143000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250618T213702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T213702Z
UID:4764-1750590000-1750602600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Duke's Alehouse Pride Ride
DESCRIPTION:Pride Ride Event Schedule \nJoin us for a special Pride Ride on June 22nd! We’re hosting a fun bike ride starting at Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen and ending at the Food Shed Co-op. It’s going to be a fantastic day of community\, celebration\, and good times. We’ll have games and activities at the Food Shed Co-op patio. Stay tuned for more details as we finalize the plans in the coming weeks. We’re so excited to have you join us! \nSunday\, June 22nd from 11:00AM – 2:30PM (and beyond) \n$45 per guest includes: \n\n2 drink tickets\nDuke’s homemade snacks\nSack Lunch provided by FoodShed Coop\nGames and Activities\nLive Entertainment\nGoodie Bag\n\nMorning Activities \n11:00 AM: Registration and Check-in at Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen \n11:30 AM: Welcome and Safety Briefing \n11:45 AM: Start of the Bike Ride to FoodShed Coop \nMid-Day Activities \n12:15 PM: Lunch Break at FoodShed Coop \n1:00 PM: Games and Activities \n1:45 PM: Start of the Bike Ride back to Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen \nAfternoon Activities \n2:30 PM: Arrive at Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen \n2:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Outdoor Block Party with Food and Drinks
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/dukes-alehouse-pride-ride/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/blackLogo-e1750282575197.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T190000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250619T001310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T001310Z
UID:4768-1750788000-1750791600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Grow Geo Power Hour
DESCRIPTION:The Defenders is partnering with CUB and GAOI to present Grow Geo Power Hour
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/grow-geo-power-hour/
LOCATION:Zoom\, IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grow-Geo-Power-Hour-McHenry-6-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250702T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250702T190000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250827T184912Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T184912Z
UID:5166-1751475600-1751482800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - July
DESCRIPTION:Urban Agroforestry \nPresented by: Stephanie Tesmer \nIn this presentation\, we will explore how urban agroforestry – integrating trees\, perennial plants\, and annual beds into urban landscapes – can enhance food security\, boost biodiversity\, and improve urban microclimates. We will discuss how transforming basic lawns\, into productive green spaces can create local food resilience and boost community well-being. At the end you will see how we put all of this into practice on our suburban 1/3 of an acre site near McHenry. \nStephanie is an Environmental Scientist who spends her days caring for her food forest and advocating for her community’s environmental needs. \nAttend on Zoom
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-july/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Green-Drinks-July-CoverImage.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250711T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250711T203000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250710T172905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T173149Z
UID:4808-1752260400-1752265800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:MCCD's First Fridays Concerts - Defenders Meetup!
DESCRIPTION:Join our Defenders Meetup at MCCD’s First Fridays Concerts! Enjoy music\, meet members\, & learn about the Defenders.     \n  \n\n\n\nJoin us on the first Friday of each month this summer for an evening of music under the oaks! Bring a picnic dinner\, enjoy the beautiful view and stay for a free concert from talented\, regional musicians.\n\n\nSeating is first-come\, first-serve.\n\nFind us at our yellow tablecloth! \n\n\n\n Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio\, Glacial Park\n 7-8:30 PM\n July 11\, August 1\, and September 5\n\n FREE & All Ages \n\n\n\nInvite your friends and we will see you there!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/mccds-first-fridays-concerts-defenders-meetup/
LOCATION:Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio\, Glacial
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Member Events,Outings,Young Advocates
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/MCCD-Concerts-EDMC-Flyer-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250719T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T195130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T195130Z
UID:4773-1752924600-1752955200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Food Truck Frenzy
DESCRIPTION:The Food Truck Frenzy is coming to town\, and so is composting!\n\n\n\nThe Defenders will have a booth for compost education with a compost bin. Composting for the event is sponsored by the Defenders and will be available for the entirety of the event.\n\n\nFor more details\, please visit the Food Truck Frenzy 2025 website.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/food-truck-frenzy/
LOCATION:Huntley Park District\, 12015 Mill Street\, Huntley\, 60142\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Food-Truck-Frenzy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250725T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250725T150000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T204547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T204629Z
UID:4781-1753448400-1753455600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:BMP Talk and Tour: Stream Restoration for Flood Reduction and Water Quality
DESCRIPTION:BMP Talk and Tour: Stream Restoration for Flood Reduction and Water Quality  \nBrad Andresen\, Parks and Forestry Supervisor\, Village of Algonquin
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/bmp-talk-and-tour-stream-restoration-for-flood-reduction-and-water-quality/
LOCATION:Dixie Creek
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/unnamed-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250729T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250803T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250618T211130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T211211Z
UID:4749-1753790400-1754251200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:County Fair
DESCRIPTION:Come join us at the County Fair!\n\n\n\nThe McHenry County Fair will soon be here from July 29 – August 3. The Defenders have a great spot this year to share our message with the public in Building C with several tables of displays and air conditioning! We need your help to spread our environmental message to residents. This is the best opportunity to reach families in the community. Please sign up for as many slots as you are interested in.\n\n\n\nVolunteers are responsible for entrance to the fair: The Fair is not offering free tickets. The cost of a weekly pass is $30\, a one day adult ticket is $10\, but for seniors 60+ a one day ticket is only $5.\n\n\nhttps://signup.com/go/UXwapHo
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/county-fair/
LOCATION:McHenry County Fairgrounds\, 12015 Country Club Rd\, Woodstock\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CountyFair-e1750280909241.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250801T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250801T203000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250710T173224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T173224Z
UID:4817-1754074800-1754080200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:MCCD's First Fridays Concerts - Defenders Meetup!
DESCRIPTION:Join our Defenders Meetup at MCCD’s First Fridays Concerts! Enjoy music\, meet members\, & learn about the Defenders.     \n  \n\n\n\nJoin us on the first Friday of each month this summer for an evening of music under the oaks! Bring a picnic dinner\, enjoy the beautiful view and stay for a free concert from talented\, regional musicians.\n\n\nSeating is first-come\, first-serve.\n\nFind us at our yellow tablecloth! \n\n\n\n Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio\, Glacial Park\n 7-8:30 PM\n July 11\, August 1\, and September 5\n\n FREE & All Ages \n\n\n\nInvite your friends and we will see you there!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/mccds-first-fridays-concerts-defenders-meetup-2/
LOCATION:Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio\, Glacial
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Member Events,Outings,Young Advocates
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/MCCD-Concerts-EDMC-Flyer-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250805T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250805T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T213400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T213424Z
UID:4796-1754415000-1754424000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Teachers' Night Out with MCSEEP
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, August 5th 5:30 – 8:00pm at The Green Read\, 61 N. Williams St.\, Crystal Lake \n\nLearn about McHenry County Schools Environmental\nEducation Programs (MCSEEP) for K-8 teachers\nShop for books for yourself (or your classroom!)\nChoose a free book from our cart for every $25 spent\nHands-on activities available to see & do\nRefreshments\n\nSponsored by MCSEEP. For more information contact Pam King at mcseepdirector@gmail.com
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/teachers-night-out-with-mcseep/
LOCATION:The Green Read\, 61 N. Williams\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
CATEGORIES:Bookstore Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/McSEEP-bookstore-event-flyer-800-x-600-800-x-600-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250806T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250806T190000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250728T165708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T184531Z
UID:4955-1754499600-1754506800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - August
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-august2025/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/August-Green-Drinks-1x1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250809T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250809T150000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T204121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T235508Z
UID:4777-1754740800-1754751600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Defenders’ Picnic
DESCRIPTION:Join the Defenders for a nostalgic afternoon of connection\, nature\, and community on Saturday\, August 9th from 12–3 PM at Pleasant Valley Conservation Area in Woodstock! \nThis is more than just a gathering—it’s a chance for members to relax\, reconnect\, and celebrate everything we stand for\, surrounded by the beauty of Pleasant Valley. \nBring a dish to share\, and let’s create a delicious spread together! Please be conscious of plastic foodware and excess packaging waste. Thank you! \nKnow someone who cares about the environment? Bring them along—they might just become our newest member! Please RSVP below. \nRSVP
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/defenders-picnic/
LOCATION:Pleasant Valley Conservation Area\, 13119 Pleasant Valley Rd\, Woodstock\, 60098\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Member Events,Outdoor Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/DefendersPicnic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250810T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250810T160000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T213657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T213657Z
UID:4800-1754829000-1754841600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Monarch Family Fun Fair
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/monarch-family-fun-fair/
LOCATION:Crystal Lake Park District
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Monarch-fair-beach-2025jpg-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250815T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250815T150000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T204900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T190022Z
UID:4786-1755262800-1755270000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:BMP Talk and Tour: Successful Natural Areas Management for Homeowner Associations
DESCRIPTION:BMP Talk and Tour: Successful Natural Areas Management for Homeowner Associations \nThis Talk and Tour will provide a first-hand look at successful natural area management at the McAndrews Glen subdivision in Bull Valley.  It will also include a brief visit to the adjacent Boloria Meadows Nature Preserve. \nDennis Dreher\, Geosyntec Consultant and volunteer Nature Preserve steward\, will lead the tour and discuss elements of successful management of 25 acres of natural area in the McAndrews Glen. The subdivision was developed 20 years ago following a conservation design theme with homes clustered within naturalized open space. The natural area\, which includes four detention basins\, was formally designated as a common area in the plat of subdivision and the approved HOA covenants require long-term ecological stewardship of the area. \nThe HOA natural area abuts Boloria Meadows Natural Preserve\, owned by The Land Conservancy of McHenry County. To better protect the Preserve and to enable flexible ecological management\, 6 acres of HOA natural area were placed into a Nature Preserve Buffer that is cooperatively managed by the HOA contractor and the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. \nThe natural area is routinely managed by a contractor hired by the HOA. The management approach focuses on control of invasive species and regular controlled burning. While the overall appearance and ecological quality of the natural area has improved significantly over time\, some ongoing issues with invasive species persist. \nThe tour will visit several representative zones in the natural area as well as the adjacent Nature Preserve. Discussion will address several important topics: \n\nThe role of the HOA in funding and overseeing natural area management. (A HOA board member has been invited to participate.)\nConsiderations in hiring and overseeing natural area contractors.\nThe role of local government in approving effective institutional arrangements\, including covenants. (A representative of the Village has been invited to participate.)\nEffective communication with HOA residents.\nSynergies and opportunities of cooperating with The Land Conservancy and other adjacent landowners.\nBenefits of sound natural area management to stormwater and water quality.\nCost savings of natural area management vs. turf grass maintenance.\n\nTo register\, please RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/BMPTourSignup. Directions and parking instructions will be sent after you have RSVP’d. These popular Talk and Tour programs showcase Best Management Practices successfully implemented in McHenry County. The programs are a collaborative effort with the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County and the McHenry County Department of Planning and Development.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/bmp-talk-and-tour-successful-natural-areas-management-for-homeowner-associations/
LOCATION:McAndrews Glen Subdivision\, Bull Valley
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Temporary-BMP-image.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250816T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250816T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T213758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T185607Z
UID:4804-1755345600-1755374400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Moss & Marrow Tattoo Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for another Save the Bees tattoo Flash Sale put on by our wonderful business members Moss and Marrow Tattoo in Crystal Lake! 50% of all proceeds will be donated to the Defenders! We’ll see you out there!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/moss-marrow-tattoo-fundraiser/
LOCATION:Moss and Marrow Tattoo Studio
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TattooFundraiser.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250824T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250824T110000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250818T164848Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250818T165118Z
UID:4555-1756026000-1756033200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Sterne’s Fen Restoration Workday
DESCRIPTION:THE GROUP\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe meet once a month at Sterne’s outdoor pavilion\, 5617 Hillside Dr. from 9-11AM.  Volunteers have a chance to learn about restoration ecology and what makes Sterne’s Fen special.  Please bring a water bottle and a pair of work gloves.  The park district will supply loppers and bow saws.  Invasives like honeysuckle and buckthorn are crowding out the native fen species.  The brush also prevents the use of controlled burns on the fen. Email Brice Alt\, volunteer site steward\, to receive a monthly workday reminder: bricemaieralt@hotmail.com. \n \nTHE PARK \nSterne’s Woods & Fen became an Illinois State Nature Preserve in 1994 to preserve and protect its unique ecology.  A fen is a rare type of wetland in which cold groundwater that is high in calcium and magnesium seeps to the surface.  The unique water chemistry supports plants that grow nowhere else.  Sterne’s Fen is home to at least 10 rare or endangered plant species.  The surrounding parkland acts as a buffer to the fen and includes prairie\, oak savanna\, and flatwood ecosystems.  Every one of those ecosystems can benefit from the efforts of volunteers.  Join us once a month and learn about them! \n \nTHANK YOU \nMuch thanks to the local groups who have volunteered with us at Sterne’s:  the MUDD trail running club\, the Silver and Sleepy Hollow Creeks Watershed Coalition\, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County\, the BREAK\, Jacobs High School Interact\, Crystal Lake South Elementary\, Girl Scout Troop 888\, Cub Scout Pack 156\, and Boy Scout Troops 158 and 368.  We can accommodate community groups!  Just give us a heads-up of how many volunteers to expect. \nNEWS \nA video about Sterne’s Fen: https://youtu.be/DMVPl80PDQ0 \nPark district updates:  https://www.crystallakeparks.org/project-updates#SternesFen\nWho was Ted Sterne?  The Crystal Lake Historical Society article: https://www.dropbox.com/s/h61unofnnnx06kg/Ted%20Sterne%20.pdf?dl=0\nECOLOGIC RESTORATION \nBy volunteering at a Sterne’s workday you’re helping with the ecologic restoration of an exceedingly rare type of habitat. \nTo learn more about restoration ecology\, here’s a quick video: https://youtu.be/VNwQ6cRMTKI \nSterne’s Fen has a management plan: https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ekp2nfniddn1d6/1989%20management%20plan.pdf?dl=0
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/sternes-fen-restoration-workday-4/2025-08-24/
LOCATION:Sternes Woods Park\, 5617 Hillside Rd\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
CATEGORIES:Work Days and Clean-ups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Group-Garlic-Mustard-Pull-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250903T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250903T190000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250827T183900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T184448Z
UID:5158-1756918800-1756926000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - September
DESCRIPTION:Clair Ryan – Recycling Program Coordinator\, Kane County. Clair began as the Recycling Program Coordinator for Kane County’s Department of Water and Environmental Resources in January of 2022. In this role\, she is responsible for maintaining and implementing the County’s Solid Waste Plan\, planning and implementing recycling events\, and for public outreach and education. While relatively new to the materials management field\, Clair has long been interested in recycling and the fate of our collective “stuff” as a citizen\, and is quickly learning the details and players. \nGina – Account Manager\, Helping Hands. Gina has been in the recycling business since 2016. She worked for one of the largest waste recycling companies with paper\, cardboard and plastics. Because of her passion for a greener environment\, she chose to work in the textile industry. She has been working with Helping Hands since 2019. She Helps not-for profit-charities and other organizations keep reusable textiles out of landfills. \nBarb says recycling was ingrained into her. However\, she became focused on the issue\, when\, she went back to school\, Northeastern Illinois University\, and received her Bachelor’s in environmental studies with a focus on natural areas management. Bells went off in her head when she took a class on solid waste issues. Lou Marchi was the professor. Prior to that she had been assistant editor on a trade press magazine\, Pollution Engineering. Over time the magazine focused a lot of space on hazardous waste issues\, but her interest remained in solid waste. Barb has been a member of the board of directors of Citizens For Conservation in Barrington\, Stillman Nature Center in South Barrington and\, of course\, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. It was Alice Howenstine telling Barb about the recycling activities the Defenders work at that encouraged her to become active with them. She has a website\, \n\nwww.oldstufftonewstuff.com She has been trying to develop it for years and welcomes any thoughts or comments about it.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-september2025/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/September-Green-Drinks.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250905T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250905T203000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250710T173251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T183039Z
UID:4819-1757098800-1757104200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:MCCD's First Fridays Concerts - Defenders Meetup!
DESCRIPTION:Join our Defenders Meetup at MCCD’s First Fridays Concerts! Enjoy music\, meet members\, & learn about the Defenders.     \n  \n\n\n\nJoin us on the first Friday of each month this summer for an evening of music under the oaks! Bring a picnic dinner\, enjoy the beautiful view and stay for a free concert from talented\, regional musicians.\n\n\nSeating is first-come\, first-serve.\n\nFind us at our yellow tablecloth! \n\n\n\n Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio\, Glacial Park\n 7-8:30 PM\n July 11\, August 1\, and September 5\n\n FREE & All Ages \n\n\n\nInvite your friends and we will see you there!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/mccds-first-fridays-concerts-defenders-meetup-3/
LOCATION:Lost Valley Visitor Center Patio\, Glacial
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Member Events,Outings,Young Advocates
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/MCCD-Concerts-EDMC-Flyer-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250910T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250910T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250808T140437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250808T140820Z
UID:5086-1757525400-1757534400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:McHenry County Water Forum
DESCRIPTION:Watersheds\nWater Quality\, Flooding\, Land Use\, and Resiliency in McHenry County\nLearn How Our Water Works\, The Threats To Our Water\, And How You Can Help Protect It \nFeaturing Presentations By: \n\nCecily Cunz\, Senior Environmental Planner – Baxter and Woodman Consulting Engineers\nBrad Andresen\, Chief Ecologist – Village of Algonquin\nMichelle Zimmerman\, Assistant Director of Public Works – Village of Algonquin\n\nHosted By: \n\nThe McHenry County Department of Planning and Development with support from our sponsors and the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County\nFully Catered by Dukes Ale House and Kitchen:\n\nOur goal is for everyone to go home smarter… and fuller… than they arrived! \nNo registration needed\, just bring your curiosity and a healthy appetite
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/mchenry-county-water-forum/
LOCATION:McHenry County College Auditorium
CATEGORIES:Education,Water and Natural Resource Protection
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/McHenry-County-Water-Forum-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250913T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250913T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250716T171642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250904T210532Z
UID:4915-1757754000-1757764800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Recycling Drive
DESCRIPTION:ACCEPTED MATERIALS AT DEFENDERS RECYCLING DRIVES \nBatteries‒ Household (A\, C\, D\, AA\, AAA\, Lithium\, Ni-Cad\, Button and NI-MH) are accepted for $1.00 per pound\, which only covers our costs to get them recycled. Lead batteries (car\, motorcycle\, sump pump\, marine) are accepted at no charge. \nFluorescent Light Bulbs–The following are accepted for a fee\, which only covers our costs to get them recycled:4-foot\, $.50 each; 8-foot\, $1.00 each; Compact fluorescent and LED bulbs used in lamps and lighting fixtures\, $.50 each \nPacking Peanuts that are clean\, dry\, in a box or bag\, are accepted \nSolid Styrofoam is accepted at no charge providing it is clean\, with no glue\, tape\, food or anything else attached to it.  Soft material that bends and is generally used in packaging is not accepted.  If it has a smooth cover (usually blue or pink in color) on it\, it is not accepted. \nTextiles–Clothes\, blankets\, towels\, shoes\, etc.\, with holes\, worn out\, torn\, accepted at no charge\, BUT they must be clean.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/recycling-drive-sept-2025/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US-14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60012\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/recycle-gf1ebec2eb_1280-e1651607622950.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250818T164217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T162232Z
UID:5122-1758304800-1758312000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Big Fall Book Sale - Members Only EARLY ACCESS
DESCRIPTION:The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County is hosting our Annual Big Fall Book Sale from September 20 – October 4. It will be located at the Algonquin Township Road District Building B Garage. \nThere will be a members-only preview sale Friday\, September 20\, 6-8pm. If you are not an Environmental Defenders’ member but would like to participate in the pre-sale\, you will be able to join online at mcdef.org. The sale begins Saturday\, September 20 10am-4pm\, and continues running from 10am-4pm through Saturday\, October 4. The sale will be closed on Sundays. \nA $10 Bag Sale will be held Thursday\, Friday and Saturday\, October 2-4. \nThere will be thousands of like-new books available for purchase with no book over $10. Search through thousands of books and many genres. Stop by and find some paperback treasures!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/big-fall-book-sale-members-only-early-access/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Big-Fall-Book-Sale-Members-Only-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250920
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250806T172607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T203546Z
UID:5065-1758326400-1759622399@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Big Fall Book Sale
DESCRIPTION:The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County is hosting our Annual Big Fall Book Sale from September 20 – October 4. It will be located at the Algonquin Township Road District Building B Garage. \nThere will be a members-only preview sale Friday\, September 20\, 6-8pm. If you are not an Environmental Defenders’ member but would like to participate in the pre-sale\, you will be able to join online at mcdef.org. The sale begins Saturday\, September 20 10am-4pm\, and continues running from 10am-4pm through Saturday\, October 4. The sale will be closed on Sundays. \nA $10 Bag Sale will be held Thursday\, Friday and Saturday\, October 2-4. \nThere will be thousands of like-new books available for purchase with no book over $10. Search through thousands of books and many genres. Stop by and find some paperback treasures!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/big-fall-book-sale-2025/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/BigFallBookSale-2025-Primary-1x1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250926T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250926T150000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250709T205257Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T203637Z
UID:4790-1758891600-1758898800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:BMP Talk and Tour: Water Reuse in McHenry County and Beyond
DESCRIPTION:BMP Talk and Tour: Water Reuse in McHenry County and Beyond \nThis Talk and Tour will provide an update on water reuse efforts in the state of Illinois and includes an informational tour of the Village of Huntley’s West Wastewater Treatment Plant. Treated effluent from the plant has been reused for irrigation since it was built in 1999. \nWe will hear from Sharon Waller\, Commissioner\, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and secretary of the new Illinois Section of the WateReuse Association and Village of Huntley Public Works staff- Tim Farrell\, Director and Adrian Pino\, Chief Wastewater Operator. \nTo register\, please RSVP at tinyurl.com/BMPTourSignup. Directions and parking instructions will be sent after you have RSVP’d. \nMore info on the WateReuse Association and its Illinois Section can be found at watereuse.org/sections/illinois/.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/bmp-talk-and-tour-water-reuse-in-mchenry-county-and-beyond/
LOCATION:Village of Huntley’s West Wastewater Treatment Plan
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Temporary-BMP-image-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251001T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251001T190000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250909T170853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T153306Z
UID:5218-1759338000-1759345200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - October
DESCRIPTION:Midwest Organics Recycling (MOR) is a commercial composting operation located on Darrell Road NE of Island Lake. MOR was established to explore the environmental benefits associated with manure composting\, while looking for a solution to sustain the viability of one of the last dairy operations in a quickly urbanizing county. Over the years\, their operation has grown substantially\, enabling them to offer organic waste processing services and provide customers with Organimix compost in McHenry County\, Lake County and surrounding areas.. \nAndy Klink\, General Manager at MOR for 10 years will talk about where our yard waste goes\, the benefits of composting\, and the State of Composting in Illinois. He obtained his BA in Business and Spanish from Augustana College. He lives in Crystal Lake with his wife Riley and 3 kids.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-october/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/GD_OCT-Organic-Waste.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251005T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251005T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250910T175056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250910T175056Z
UID:5336-1759669200-1759672800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Annual Bike Ride
DESCRIPTION:Join the Environmental Defenders’ Transportation Action Team on a scenic bike ride Sunday\, October 5 starting at Food Shed in Woodstock at 1PM\, and looping through McHenry County College and Crystal Lake before returning to Food Shed. We will ride for a total of about 15 miles at a relaxed pace. Contact Gary Kanner at kannergary@gmail.com for any questions and if you plan to participate.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/annual-bike-ride/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Annual-Bike-Ride_1x1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251018T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251018T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T124620
CREATED:20250926T213944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T215311Z
UID:5391-1760778000-1760788800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Recycling Drive
DESCRIPTION:ACCEPTED MATERIALS AT DEFENDERS RECYCLING DRIVES \nBatteries‒ Household (A\, C\, D\, AA\, AAA\, Lithium\, Ni-Cad\, Button and NI-MH) are accepted for $1.00 per pound\, which only covers our costs to get them recycled. Lead batteries (car\, motorcycle\, sump pump\, marine) are accepted at no charge. \nFluorescent Light Bulbs–The following are accepted for a fee\, which only covers our costs to get them recycled:4-foot\, $.50 each; 8-foot\, $1.00 each; Compact fluorescent and LED bulbs used in lamps and lighting fixtures\, $.50 each \nPacking Peanuts that are clean\, dry\, in a box or bag\, are accepted \nSolid Styrofoam is accepted at no charge providing it is clean\, with no glue\, tape\, food or anything else attached to it.  Soft material that bends and is generally used in packaging is not accepted.  If it has a smooth cover (usually blue or pink in color) on it\, it is not accepted. \nTextiles–Clothes\, blankets\, towels\, shoes\, etc.\, with holes\, worn out\, torn\, accepted at no charge\, BUT they must be clean. \nDocument Shredding will be available at the recycling drive.  \nElectronics will be taken by Elgin Recycling:\nTVs under 21”—$25\, TVs over 21”—$35\nhttps://www.elginrecycling.com/electronics/ \nNOTE: All Woodstock residents can recycle batteries and lightbulbs at no charge. Bring your ID with you.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/recycling-drive-3/
LOCATION:McHenry County Fairgrounds\, 12015 Country Club Rd\, Woodstock\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/OctoberRecyclingDrive_1x1.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR