Busse Woods, Natural preserve in Cook County, Illinois
Busse Woods is a large nature preserve in Cook County featuring hardwood forests, wetlands, and a substantial reservoir that serves recreational purposes. The entire area is threaded with paved paths suitable for walking and cycling.
The area was named after county commissioner William Busse in 1949 as a way to honor his role in supporting the preserve's development. It later received National Natural Landmark designation in 1980, cementing its protected status.
The preserve hosts an elk herd in a fenced enclosure that arrived from Yellowstone National Park in the early 20th century. This resident population has become central to visitors' experience, offering a chance to see these animals up close in a managed setting.
The preserve features an extensive network of paved paths that accommodate different activity levels and abilities for all types of visitors. The lake offers boat rental opportunities during warmer months, providing another way to experience the water and wildlife.
The area contains specialized forest communities that thrive in poorly draining soils, supporting plant and animal species adapted to wet conditions. These flatwoods ecosystems are characteristic of the Midwest and represent an important type of habitat that many visitors overlook.
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