Episode 26: David Lloyd - Steward for Cook County Forest Preserves - Habitat Restoration

Wild For Change

On today’s Wild For Change podcast, we are going to learn about habitat restoration with David Lloyd, steward for the Cook County Forest Preserves in Illinois. During this podcast, we will learn why habitat restoration is so crucial for local ecosystems.

I am fortunate enough to live near forest preserves where I can take a hike, see wild flowers and wildlife and get a breath of fresh air. Recently, I wanted to get back into volunteering and signed up to help with habitat restoration at my local forest preserve. This is where I met Dave and from day one, his enthusiasm for nature was palpable. Not only do I get to hang out with nature but I have a real opportunity to learn from Dave the importance of restoring the local habitat and what that means for our local ecosystem, pollinators, wildlife, and us.

During this podcast we will learn;

• How David’s journey to becoming a steward for the forest preserves began with a membership gift to National Geographic.
• Why habitat restoration is so important for native plants and wildlife.
• The main objective of habitat restoration.
• What happens when invasive species take over an ecosystem and why is it important to remove them.
• How restoring habitat encourages the growth of native plants that may have been dormant for hundreds of years.
• What the beneficial connection is between habitat restoration and pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
• Why prescribed fires are beneficial in woodland regions and the history of fires as being a healthy renewal of biodiversity.
• Why is spending time in nature so important for us.
• Why is volunteering so important and learn how you can get involved.
• Learn about how you can help support native biodiversity in your own backyard through Homegrown National Park.

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