History
In 1952, the Chicago Congregational Union purchased the land and converted it into a summer camp and retreat center for inner-city youth and called it Pleasant Valley Farm, later becoming Pleasant Valley Outdoor Center. For 40 years, thousands of city children ventured into the “wilds.” Campers explored their natural environment through activities ranging from natural history studies to social science. They assisted with the duties of the camp by learning how to farm, taking care of farm animals, tending to vegetable gardens and helping to prepare meals. The center operated for 46 years, closing in 1998.
Restoration
In 1994, the District purchased 109 acres of the property. Over the next 10 years, several other land purchases we made, including the area where the outdoor center resided. In 2008, the Natural Resources Department restored the original hydrology of 33 acres. The scope of the work included removing 1,000 feet of drainage ditch and 400 feet of a berm which were diverting the surface water away from existing hydric soil and increasing the intensity of the flow into Laughing Creek.
GeoSeries Question
Pleasant Valley is considered a _________ because enough land is protected to create large blocks of habitat.
To learn how to participate in the GeoSeries and earn a special District geocoin visit MCCDistrict.org/Geocache
Geocachers
Please join us in playing! Geocaching is a high-tech “treasure hunting” game played throughout the world by adventure seeker. All are welcome who observe and obey the rules.
- Please do not move or vandalize the container.
- Once you find it, log your name in the book, take a trinket and leave one of your own behind for the next person.
- Replace the cache in the same spot that you found it, and make sure it is completely covered.
- Please do not remove the informational card from the containers, this is an essential game piece for cachers completing the GeoSeries.
- The real treasure is finding the container and sharing your thoughts with everyone who finds it.
For a complete list of rules and instructions on how to earn a special district geocoin visit MCCDistrict.org/Geocache
Email geocaching@MCCDistrict.org with any questions or concerns
McHenry County Conservation District Information
Visit our website at MCCDistrict.org or call (815) 338-6223
Photo Release
5/20/2021 Photos posted here may be featured on the McHenry County Conservation District's various social media accounts including Facebook, Instagram, and twitter, as well as our website (MCCDistrict.org) and print material such as Landscapes Magazine. By posting photos to this log you agree to allow us to share your work. Photographers will be acknowledged in any shares or posts of photos, so please include your name in your post if it is different from that of your username.