For the last 36 years the Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners has pursued the acquisition of a small but critical parcel in Deer Park.
In November – after reaching an agreement with the landowner – the purchase of a 9.4-acre property will complete the expansion of the Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.
The land, south-adjacent to Cuba Road east of Ela Road, will be acquired for $725,000. "This property aligns perfectly with our mission to protect wildlife habitats, preserve wetlands, prairies and woodlands and expand our existing preserves," said Executive Director Ty Kovach. "In 1988, we bought 110 acres that wraps around this parcel and have been waiting for the chance to secure this land.”
The landowner demolished buildings planning to plant native species on the land, but ultimately chose to list the property for sale with terms restricting placement of any structures or otherwise developing the property, stipulating it be designated as an Illinois Nature Preserve, buffer or Illinois Land and Water Reserve. Although open to the public, a deed restriction prohibits the construction of trails, parking lots, ball fields, golf facilities or dog exercise areas on this particular parcel.
However, these natural wetlands should contribute considerably to enhancing hydrologic restoration efforts, making it easier to carry out prescribed burns and other land management activities helping protect the entirety of Cuba Marsh, a pristine blend of marsh, woodland and grassland now covering 790+ acres of SW Lake County. This new parcel's presence as a completely naturalized area of the preserve should strongly contribute to the health of the entire region.
Cuba Marsh already features three miles of trails for hiking, bicycling and cross-country skiing, guiding visitors through open areas of gently rolling hills featuring views of the marsh and groves. Amenities available to all visitors include picnic tables, public parking areas and toilets. A gravel trail winds from the southern loop of the main tail through the southwest corner of the preserve to Barrington’s Citizens Park, a striking sojourn that includes a boardwalk and a 50-foot-long timber bridge.
"We are excited to continue the restoration efforts on this new property, further enhancing the preservation of this important area," said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves.
For further information on Cuba Marsh, visit LCFPD.org/cuba-marsh/ online.
"Cuba Marsh combines marsh and prairie with woodland and savanna; a wide range of plants and animals make their homes here. A great spot to view waterfowl including pied-billed grebes and American coots, it provides flood relief to nearby homes, and cleanses the water flowing into Flint Creek and eventually the Fox River."