Location: Dunning Read Natural Area, 4050 N Oak Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60634
Date: Saturday, 7/19/2025
Time: 7:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Borbs and Forbs is a monthly event for nature enthusiasts and those inspired to give back to our communities. Each month we will visit a Chicago Park to admire local birds and other fauna, followed by a stewardship day with the park's steward.
In July we will visit the Dunning-Read Natural Area. Acquired by the Chicago Park District in 2022 and labeled "Park 601," this natural area is in need of TLC and has a dedicated crew of volunteers making the space more habitable for wildlife and neighbors. This spot includes prairie and wooded habitat. We’ll try to spot raptors, Killdeer, Mourning Doves, American Goldfinches, and Song Sparrows.
Then at 9 a.m. we'll join the Dunning-Read steward for a workday in which we help improve the natural areas. Workday activities might include trail maintenance, planting, pruning, weeding, controlling invasive plant species, seed collection, or trash pick-up. No experience or equipment is required. Gloves and other needed tools will be provided.
Leaders: Robyn Detterline
Pre-registration is required. Please contact Robyn Detterline (rdetterline@gmail.com) at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend or with questions.
Accessibility:
Total trip distance is 1.25 miles and will take place on wood-chip trails. While the path is wide and relatively level, it can get rough and quite muddy, with plank crossings across the wet prairie at certain points.
No bathrooms are available.
Weather/Attire/Other:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please bring bottled water. Dress for the weather. Based on the forecast, you may want to bring a hat and sunscreen. Long pants and insect repellent are recommended. Loaner binoculars will be available.
The exact meeting location will be emailed in advance to registrants. Free parking is available at the parking lot. The location is accessible by the # 90 (Harlem) and #80 (Irving Park) bus routes.
Respiratory Illness Precautions:
COS supports the decision of individual trip participants to wear masks.