BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Environmental Defenders of McHenry County - ECPv6.15.17//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mcdef.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20240310T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20241103T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250919T200000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
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:20260502T032814
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:20260502T032814
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:20250928T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250928T110000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20220208T200838Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T225442Z
UID:3945-1759050000-1759057200@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/2025-09-28/
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:20251001T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251001T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
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:20260502T032814
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:20260502T032814
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
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251018T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251018T110000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20250909T184131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T171800Z
UID:5235-1760779800-1760785200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Roadside Clean-up
DESCRIPTION:Cary Algonquin Rd. from Fox Trails Dr. to Main St. (next to Fox Bluff Conservation Area) \n\nMeet our Waste Reduction Team + other Defenders members\nChildren over age 10 welcome\, with adult present\nPlease bring gloves\nDress for the weather\n\nEmail alange090@gmail.com for more details + to let us know to expect you!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/roadside-clean-up/
LOCATION:Cary Algonquin Rd
CATEGORIES:Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Roadside-Clean-Up_2025_OCT.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251019T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251015T175233Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T151007Z
UID:5401-1760878800-1760882400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:CANCELED: Yoga in the Park
DESCRIPTION:CANCELED: Yoga in the Park \nSUNDAY\, OCTOBER 19 \n1PM-2PM \nDowntown Woodstock \nSouthwest Corner of Judd & Madison St \nNear Casting Whimsy tea shop \nBring a yoga mat & wear something comfy
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/yoga-in-the-park/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Yoga-in-the-Park-1080-x-1080-px-Instagram-Post-45.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251024T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251024T150000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20250709T213042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251015T175725Z
UID:4794-1761310800-1761318000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:BMP Talk and Tour: Keeping Children Safe from Toxic Pavement Sealants
DESCRIPTION:Did you know that many of the blacktop sealants currently used on asphalt surfaces contain a toxic waste product that is formed from the burning of coal? This toxic waste product is coal tar that includes extremely high concentrations of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH’s) that are linked to cancer and are toxic to aquatic wildlife. \nAs the coal tar-based sealants break down\, particles are carried by wind and runoff exposing people and wildlife to these toxic PAH’s. Please join us for this important Talk and Tour Workshop to learn all about toxic pavement sealants\, the non-toxic alternatives\, and how we can keep children safe. \nOur distinguished guest speakers include: \n\nCook County Commissioner Maggie Trevor-author of 2024 legislation banning coal tar and high PAH sealants in Cook County\nDavid Schuh\, Director of Operations at Crystal Lake School District 47\nAaron Martin & Aaron Burlingham\, Illinois Dept. of Public Health on the Coal Tar Sealant Disclosure Act\n\nTo register\, please RSVP at tinyurl.com/BMPTourSignup
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/bmp-talk-and-tour-keeping-children-safe-from-toxic-pavement-sealants/
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:20251026T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251026T160000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20250825T184928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T185332Z
UID:5150-1761487200-1761494400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Craft & Sip
DESCRIPTION:Register for EventJoin us for an afternoon of craft beer and crafting vases while fundraising for the Environmental Defenders of McHenry Count. Please register for this event. All materials will be provided and a food truck will be on-site to grab a bite to eat. We will be creating DIY Book Vases out of recycled books.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/craft-sip/
LOCATION:Kishwaukee Brewing Company\, 1900 Dillard Ct\, Woodstock\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/EDMC_Fundraising_CraftSip_SocialMedia_2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251101T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251101T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251017T173530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T173856Z
UID:5409-1761994800-1762005600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Repair Fair at the Green Living Expo
DESCRIPTION:Mark your calendars to attend our Repair Fair in partnership with McHenry County College on November 1st at the Green Living Expo. The Green Living Expo will be from 10am – 3pm. There will be presentations\, exhibitions\, and organizations to visit and learn about. From 11am-2pm\, experts will be available onsite to help repair:\n\n\n\n\n\nLamps and Light Fixtures\nSmall Household Appliances (toasters\, blenders\, etc.)\nClothing Repair (no tailoring)\nBicycle Repair\nSmall Engine Repair (lawnmowers\, etc.)\n\n\n\nNo electronics\, computers\, computer screens\, or cell phones.\nProjects must be able to be fixed in under an hour.\nLimit three items per person. Walk-ins only—first come\, first served.\n\n\nShare with someone who might have an item to fix!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/repair-fair-at-the-green-living-expo/
LOCATION:McHenry County College Auditorium
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-17-at-12.36.03-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251105T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251105T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20250922T153411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T191743Z
UID:5355-1762362000-1762369200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - November
DESCRIPTION:Forest Carbon Credits in McHenry County \nLisa Haderlein\, Executive Director of The Land Conservancy of McHenry County\, and Jessica Beverly\, Forest Carbon Program Director for TLC will join us to talk about urban forest carbon credits in McHenry County. They’ll touch on how a project is created\, such as the two owned by TLC and one owned by the McHenry Conservation Foundation and how a nonprofit carbon credit registry is helping to create carbon offsets available for purchase in our own backyard. They will also discuss the voluntary carbon market in general and how important small projects like these are to reach climate goals.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-november/
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/Green-Drinks-November2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251201T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251201T200000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251105T160052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T160052Z
UID:5538-1764604800-1764619200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Holiday Toy Swap
DESCRIPTION:Holiday Toy Swap \nMonday\, December 1\, 2025 \nMcHenry County College Cafeteria \n4PM – 8PM \nSkip the big box stores this holiday season and swap out your gently used toys for new-to-you toys! \n\nFREE FOR EVERYONE\nToys for all ages welcome!\nBattery operated toys must be functioning\nStuffed / Plush toys must be clean + fragrance
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/holiday-toy-swap/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US-14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60012\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EDMC_WR_Social_ToySwap_2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251203T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251203T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251118T185404Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T185453Z
UID:5629-1764781200-1764788400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - December
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate 2025\nAn Environmental Year in Review\nWednesday\, December 3\, 2025   |   5 – 7 PM\nDuke’s Alehouse & Kitchen\nCome engage\, learn\, and celebrate the successes accomplished through the leadership of our local environmental organizations and their members! Each organization will give a short presentation on their 2025 accomplishments to create a better McHenry County. Toast their work for 2025 with us! \nDuke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, Green Drinks Co-sponsor\nEnvironmental Defenders of McHenry County\, Green Drinks Co-sponsor\nFriends of the Fox River\nFriends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge\nFood Shed Co-op\nLand Conservancy of McHenry County\nMcHenry County Audubon Society\nMcHenry County Chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby\nMcHenry County College Sustainability Center\nMcHenry County Conservation District\nMcHenry County Conservation Foundation\nSmall Waters Education\nWildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee \n5 pm begins out social hour to mix\, mingle and meet like-minded peers. Program starts at 5:45 pm! We encourage all guests to order food before the presentations begin or make a dining room table reservation for after the presentations. \nFood and beverages available from Duke’s menu: before\, during or after the event. Kitchen closes at 8 pm.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-december/
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/2025/11/GD_December-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251206T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251206T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251201T201958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T202058Z
UID:5650-1765011600-1765040400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Small Business Saturday (Do-over)
DESCRIPTION:Due to the wintry weather\, we’re re-doing Small Business Saturday! We’ll now be celebrating on December 6th! Stop by The Green Read & The Green Spot to shop second-hand and support our local environment. ♻️💙
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/small-business-saturday-do-over/
LOCATION:The Green Read\, 61 N. Williams\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Small-Business-Saturday-Facebook-Post-1x1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251220T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251220T120000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251217T181014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T181108Z
UID:5667-1766228400-1766232000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Santa Storytime
DESCRIPTION:Santa Storytime \nSaturday\, December 20 | 11AM at The Green \nVisit with Santa and listen to him read stories with an ASL
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/santa-storytime/
CATEGORIES:Bookstore Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Copy-of-Santa-Storytime-Instagram-Post-45.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260107T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260107T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20251222T204044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T204044Z
UID:5673-1767805200-1767812400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - January
DESCRIPTION:Coffee & Environmental Stewardship \nMichael Shipley\, owner and operator of Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters\, shares his insights on environmental stewardship and community. With over twenty years of roasting and serving coffee\, the presentation will draw from his experiences as a small business operator\, managing cafes and sourcing and purchasing green (unroasted) coffee from around the world. Learn about the common challenges and success of the environmental movement in the coffee industry both at home and at origin.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-january2026/
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/2025/12/Jan26_Coffee.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260131T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260131T130000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260129T213457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T213542Z
UID:5795-1769848200-1769864400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:People in Need Forum
DESCRIPTION:The public is invited to the annual People in Need Forum\, held each January at MCC\, to learn about the abundance of resources and support available to them and others. Exhibitors showcase essential community resources available to help those in need and present workshops on topics such as teen dating\, senior issues\, caregiver resources\, LGBTQIA+\, substance abuse and addictions\, and human trafficking.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/people-in-need-forum/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US-14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60012\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-29-at-3.34.05-PM-e1769722490775.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260204T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T191330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T195649Z
UID:5758-1770224400-1770231600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - February
DESCRIPTION:Paddle the Kish with Pat Lawlor
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-february/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/GD_CoverImage_FEB2026_PaddletheKish_1x1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T173558Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T173614Z
UID:5736-1770458400-1770472800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:The Great Seed & Soil Event
DESCRIPTION:The Great Seed and Soil Event is back for its third year brought to you by the Center for Agrarian Learning at MCC and the University of Illinois extension Master Gardeners! This popular annual event is designed for anyone interested in growing their own food and expanding home gardening skills. \nWe have amazing vendors and non-profits\, kids’ activities and demonstrations throughout the day\, and lots of free seeds to give away! Come pick out veggies\, herbs\, natives\, and flowers for free! \n\nMicro-Talks\nThree informative talks will be happening throughout the day: \n\n10:30 a.m. – Why and How to Build a 10-by-10 Pocket Prairie with Will’s Native Perennials\n11:30 a.m. – Urban Agroforestry: A Food Forest at Home with Stephanie Tesmer\n12:30 p.m. – Composting: Home and Commercial with Midwest Organics Recycling and Illinois Food Scrap and Composting Coalition\n\n\nDemonstrations\nThe Master Gardeners will be hosting gardening demos throughout the day\, including: \n\nComposting\nWinter sowing\nIndoor lighting\nKids’ art projects\n\n\nRegistration\nRegistration is not required\, but you may sign up in advance. Contact Sheri Doyel or call (815) 479-7618 for more information.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/the-great-seed-soil-event/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US-14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60012\, United States
CATEGORIES:Conservation,Education,Public Events,Water and Natural Resource Protection
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-15-at-11.34.59-AM-e1768498523307.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260213
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260214
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T180628Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T180628Z
UID:5740-1770940800-1771027199@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Annual Auction: Donations Due
DESCRIPTION:Important Dates \nDonation Due Date: February 13\, 2026\nAuction Start: February 20\, 2026 at 8:00 AM\nAuction End: March 6\, 2026\, at a time to be determined. \nHOW TO DONATE\nDonating is simple! Please contact the Fundraising team at basten1@sbcglobal.net to discuss your ideas and/or submit a description of your donation. Please drop off your donation at the Defender’s office at 114 S Jefferson St\, Woodstock (call 815.338.0393 to make sure someone is there to receive your item). \nSeeking Donations of All Kinds\nDo you have a creative flair\, a special talent\, or access to unique experiences? We are seeking donations of all kinds for this year’s auction\, including:\nGift baskets (themed\, gourmet\, spa\, etc.)\nHandmade items (artwork\, crafts\, jewelry\, quilts\, and more)\nExperiences (private lessons\, tours\, tickets to events\, vacation rentals\, and more)\nGift cards from local businesses\nServices (photography\, home improvement\, wellness sessions\, etc.)\nHomemade/homegrown delicacies (jams\, eggs\, breads\, pies\, cakes\, etc.)\nAnd much more—your imagination is the limit! \nWhy Your Support Matters\nEvery donation—big or small—helps us reach our fundraising goal and ensures we can continue our vital work throughout the year. Plus\, your contribution will be featured in our online catalog\, giving you or your business great exposure to our community of supporters. Thank you for considering a donation to our 2026 Annual Online Fundraising Auction. \nTogether\, we can make this event our best yet!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/annual-auction-donations-due/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EDMC_FR_Annual-Auction_SocialMedia-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260218T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260218T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260209T230352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T230438Z
UID:5812-1771434000-1771441200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Community Open House for Comprehensive Conservation Plan
DESCRIPTION:Forward to 2040 with a Vision to 2071\nThe McHenry County Conservation District is excited to be creating a Comprehensive Conservation Plan\, titled “Forward to 2040 with a Vision to 2071” to guide the District’s path for the next 10+ years\, and create a vision for the future extending to the District’s Centennial Anniversary in 2071. The plan will help determine District priorities and where future resources will be focused. \nAs part of this planning process\, the Conservation District has enlisted Upland Design\, LTD. who bring with them a collection of experts from aQuity Research\, Engineering Resource Associates\, Dewberry\, Vetter Consulting Enterprises LLC\, and 110%. \nUpland Design and the Conservation District will be holding two Community Open Houses to gain feedback from residents and site users. We invite you to attend and share your ideas for the future of Conservation in McHenry County. The District will also be creating and issuing a statistically valid community survey that will be distributed in future months\, and will be hosting pop-up events and other ways for site users to share their ideas throughout the creation of this plan. \nAttend an Open House\nJoin us at one of the following COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSES to learn about the planning process and share your thoughts. Registration is not required.\nWednesday\, February 18\, 5pm-7pm\, Lost Valley Visitor Center\nWednesday\, March 4\, 5pm-7pm\, McHenry County College 
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/community-open-house-for-comprehensive-conservation-plan/
LOCATION:Lost Valley Visitor Center\, Route 31 & Harts Road\, Ringwood\, IL\, 60071
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/header-for-wikiwow-Copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260220
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260221
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T183027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T194328Z
UID:5743-1771545600-1771631999@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Annual Auction is Open!
DESCRIPTION:Important Dates \nDonation Due Date: February 13\, 2026\nAuction Start: February 20\, 2026 at 8:00 AM\nAuction End: March 6\, 2026\, at a time to be determined. \nHow Can you Bid on Donated Items?\nBefore the auction goes live\, the EDMC staff will send out an email giving you the link to start reviewing the items up for auction and start bidding. Watch for this to happen starting before the bid opening date. Bid high and often to make this a memorable fundraiser!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/annual-auction-is-open/
CATEGORIES:Fundraising
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EDMC_FR_Annual-Auction_SocialMedia.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260228T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260228T160000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T184311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T184654Z
UID:5749-1772265600-1772294400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:WPPC's Annual Natural Landscaping Seminar
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our 2026 program! \nSaturday\, February 28\, 2026 – 8:00 a.m.–3:45 p.m. \nMcHenry County College at Luecht Conference Center \n8900 US Hwy 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL \nOnline Registration is now open! \nOnline or Mail-in Pre-Registration: $50 now through February 22. Mail-in registration must be received by February 22. At the Door: $55
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/wppcs-annual-natural-landscaping-seminar-2/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US-14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60012\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EDMC_Events_NLS_FEB2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260304T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260304T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260209T230539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T230539Z
UID:5816-1772643600-1772650800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Community Open House for Comprehensive Conservation Plan
DESCRIPTION:Forward to 2040 with a Vision to 2071\nThe McHenry County Conservation District is excited to be creating a Comprehensive Conservation Plan\, titled “Forward to 2040 with a Vision to 2071” to guide the District’s path for the next 10+ years\, and create a vision for the future extending to the District’s Centennial Anniversary in 2071. The plan will help determine District priorities and where future resources will be focused. \nAs part of this planning process\, the Conservation District has enlisted Upland Design\, LTD. who bring with them a collection of experts from aQuity Research\, Engineering Resource Associates\, Dewberry\, Vetter Consulting Enterprises LLC\, and 110%. \nUpland Design and the Conservation District will be holding two Community Open Houses to gain feedback from residents and site users. We invite you to attend and share your ideas for the future of Conservation in McHenry County. The District will also be creating and issuing a statistically valid community survey that will be distributed in future months\, and will be hosting pop-up events and other ways for site users to share their ideas throughout the creation of this plan. \nAttend an Open House\nJoin us at one of the following COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSES to learn about the planning process and share your thoughts. Registration is not required.\nWednesday\, February 18\, 5pm-7pm\, Lost Valley Visitor Center\nWednesday\, March 4\, 5pm-7pm\, McHenry County College 
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/community-open-house-for-comprehensive-conservation-plan-2/
LOCATION:McHenry County College\, 8900 US-14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60012\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/header-for-wikiwow-Copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260304T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260304T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260209T231043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T195118Z
UID:5818-1772643600-1772650800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - March
DESCRIPTION:A Forest in a Footprint: \nAlgonquin Garden Club Pioneers Local Mini-Forest \nOn October 25\, 2025\, the Algonquin Garden Club and its collaborators\, Mini Forest Alliance and Ruthless Readers book club\, planted the seeds for a greener\, wilder future right in the Dixie Briggs Fromm Land and Water Preserve. The ambitious project\, a Miyawaki Mini-Forest\, has transformed a small\, former buckthorn infested plot into a densely packed\, biodiverse habitat – the first of its kind for the collaborators and a significant step for local conservation. \nCarol Weinhammer\, long-time steward of Dixie Briggs and Chairman of the Algonquin Garden Club’s Special Committee\, along with Cindy Germata\, President of the Algonquin Garden Club\, will share how this Mini Forest project came to fruition. \n5pm begins our social hour to mix\, mingle and meet like-minded peers. Presentatiom starts at 5:45 pm! We encourage all guests to order food before the presentations begin or make a dining room table reservation for after the presentation. \nFood and beverages available from Duke’s menu: before\, during or after the event. Kitchen closes at 8pm. \nAttend on Zoom
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-march/
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/2026/02/GD_CoverImage_MAR2026_1x1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260306
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260307
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T183743Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T183743Z
UID:5746-1772755200-1772841599@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Annual Auction Ends
DESCRIPTION:Important Dates \nDonation Due Date: February 13\, 2026\nAuction Start: February 20\, 2026 at 8:00 AM\nAuction End: March 6\, 2026\, at a time to be determined. \nHow Can you Bid on Donated Items?\nBefore the auction goes live\, the EDMC staff will send out an email giving you the link to start reviewing the items up for auction and start bidding. Watch for this to happen starting before the bid opening date. Bid high and often to make this a memorable fundraiser!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/annual-auction-ends/
CATEGORIES:Fundraising
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EDMC_FR_Annual-Auction_SocialMedia-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260308T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260308T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260115T185008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T221536Z
UID:5753-1772967600-1772978400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Defenders' 2026 Annual Meeting & Brunch
DESCRIPTION:DATE: March 8th\, 2026 \nTIME: 11am-2pm \nLOCATION: Oruga Social | 1000 McHenry Ave\, Crystal Lake\, IL 60014 \nBrunch will be included with the ticket. \n\n\n\nLive Auction: There will be an in-person 50/50 cash raffle\, live mini silent auction\, and bag raffle at the event. Cash and card will be accepted. \nSponsorships: You can be a sponsor of our Annual Meeting and have your own table for friends and family. For sponsorship tickets\, please email Erin at defendersdirector@gmail.com or call our office at 815-338-0393. \n\n\n\nGet Tickets
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/defenders-2026-annual-meeting-brunch/
LOCATION:Oruga Social\, 1000 McHenry Ave\,\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Annual Dinner,Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-Annual-Auction-Auction-Ends-March-6-2026-Time-TBD.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260320T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260320T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T032814
CREATED:20260318T184758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T184758Z
UID:5854-1774011600-1774015200@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. \nSign Up
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/bmp-talk-and-tour-successful-natural-areas-management-for-homeowner-associations-2026/
LOCATION:McAndrews Glen Subdivision\, Bull Valley
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/6-e1773859623175.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR