Resources

Atlas of Biodiversity

The Chicago Wilderness Atlas of Biodiversity is a beautiful, 64-page full-color introduction to the natural history of the Chicago region. From the Ice Age to our present Chicago Wilderness, this book tells the tale of how geologic forces and humans have shaped our region’s rare and diverse landscape. The Atlas is a marvelous resource for educators, families, and residents. To obtain a print copy, contact Michelle Mohney at or 708.688.8829. View the PDF of Atlas of Biodiversity.

Biodiversity Recovery Plan

The Chicago Wilderness Biodiversity Recovery Plan, published in 1999, is an ambitious blueprint for saving and restoring the rare natural communities of the Chicago region — our prairies, savannas, woodlands, and wetlands. Developed over more than three years by hundreds of people — scientists, land managers, conservation advocates, planners, and caring citizens — the Recovery Plan outlines the steps necessary to achieve the mission of Chicago Wilderness. View the PDF of Biodiversity Recovery Plan.

The State of Our Chicago Wilderness:
A Report Card on the Health of the Region’s Ecosystems

The Biodiversity Recovery Plan outlines the steps needed to protect the natural communities of the Chicago Wilderness region. Since the publication of the plan, members of the Chicago Wilderness alliance have taken significant actions toward this goal, including on-the-ground restoration efforts and a host of education, outreach, research, monitoring and policy initiatives. Many of these efforts have met with success. In 2006, Chicago Wilderness experts convened to determine how we are doing as individuals and as a region in assuring the health of our unique natural areas. View the PDF of The State of Our Chicago Wilderness Summary Report and Technical Report.

Enjoying Chicago Wilderness with Your Family: An Activity Guide

Exploring nature gives us a chance to engage our most vital human capacities — our curiosity, our ability to care for other creatures, our creativity and imagination. Unstructured play in nature allows opportunities for the really important business of childhood: climbing, swinging, throwing, hiding, watching, exploring and dreaming. The Family Activity Guide is intended as an entry pass outside your door and into nearby natural areas, with 24 kid-tested activities to enjoy throughout the year. To obtain a copy, visit the Chicago Wilderness Store.

Chicago Wilderness Magazine

Chicago Wilderness is a quarterly magazine that celebrates the rich natural heritage of this region and tells the inspiring stories of the people and organizations working to heal and protect local nature.