Join us for a guided prairie walk with a master naturalist!

The Prairie Restoration project at Walnut Grove Vocational Farm began when a DCCG volunteer, who also happens to be a master naturalist, discovered Bur Oaks on the property that are over 100 years old. It became clear that this beautiful and serene area needed to be restored. All of the wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees planted at the site are native to northern Illinois. Since the project began in 2015, DCCG volunteers have planted white, swamp white, chinquapin, red, and pin oaks that should last for another 100 years. Other varieties of trees planted include sycamore, bald cypress, walnut, shagbark hickory, and pagoda dogwood. This beautiful area provides a place for people to connect with nature while protecting the ecosystem that provides habitat for myriad creatures, nourishes our soil and keeps our water clean. As part of the restoration, each spring DCCG does a prescribed burn of the entire prairie. Throughout the year volunteers help plant native plant plugs, shrubs, and trees, weed, remove undesired trees and shrubs, gather seed, trim around existing shrubs and trees, mow and trail maintenance. The prairie/savanna is located on Wolf Road 1/4 mile east of Walnut Grove Vocational Farm.

Walnut Grove Vocational Farm provides innovative work opportunities and career options for adults with developmental disabilities by providing agricultural training and employment in integrated settings. The fastest growing employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities are with farms and ranches. Agriculture related opportunities allow those with disabilities a healthy, fun, integrated, and meaningful way for them to participate and contribute to the wider community.