About the Site
In 2006, the Conservation District purchased the 113-acre from the Kattner family who farmed the area since 1950. Shortly following, the District began an extensive restoration on the 113-acre site to restore the hydrology to the wetlands and to adjoin uplands to a diverse wetland complex.
The former fens, marshes and sedge meadows surrounding the stream were ditched in the early 20th century to allow for agricultural fields. Thereby, sub-surface tile fields had to be removed, 8,300 feet of ditch were filled, 500 feet of severely eroded stream bank underwent stabilization to create a more natural slope, 35 acres of exotic species were removed, and a diverse mix of native prairie/wetland were planted to reduce erosion into the newly re-created wetlands and stream while providing improved cover for native wildlife.
In 2010, this site was extensively remodeled. Many site amenities were added or updated.
About the Cache
This cache was placed for the 2011 Cache Your Way program but remains in play for the fun of it! For more information about current and upcoming Cache Your way programs, visit our website or follow us on Facebook
District Geocaching Rules
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The location can only be in an area open to the public and within 12 feet from a trail.
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The container must be made of clear material, not to exceed 4" x 8" x 12".
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Only three caches allowed per District site. Due to environmental reasons, certain sites or areas may be closed to geocaching.
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The cache may not contain food items, inappropriate, offensive or hazardous material.
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The cache may not be buried and vegetation or other natural features are not to be disturbed.
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Caches may be hidden under logs, in tree holes, in/under downed trees, in/under brush, etc. The cache may not be affixed to any man-made structure (bench, sign, pole, fence, water pump, building, etc.) or natural feature (rock, tree, stump, root, etc.) in any manner. This applies to items requiring magnets, tapes, nails, rope/string, staples or anything else to hold them in place.
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All caches must be removed or renewed at the end of each calendar year.
For a complete list of rules, visit our website www.mccdistrict.org/web/re-geocache.htm
McHenry County Conservation District Information
Visit our website at www.mccdistrict.org or call 815-338-6223 for camping/shelters, 815-479-5779 for educational programs or 815-678-4532 for the Lost Valley Visitor Center