ARBORETUM AND TREE PROGRAM

The West Chicago Park District was established in 1972 and since has been committed to creating an enhanced quality of life through effective programs, progressive facilities and preservation of parks and natural resources. The District has over 400 acres of parks, woodlands, trails and gardens. In 2018 the Park District took a new stance on tree management by completing a tree inventory and report; this launched the initiative to become an accredited Level II Arboretum. Research efforts revealed a 2,394 tree population of 106 different species in managed areas alone. Notably, Reed-Keppler Park is home to a community center, water park, artistic gardens, dog parks and band shell among many other amenities. The 100-acre park has the largest tree population in the Park District with 1056 trees of 134 distinct species and a recognizable 625 tree remnant oak stand.

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REFORESTATION PROGRAM INITIATIVE & ARBORETUM INITIATIVE

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Trees must be purchased through the District and can be done so at any time throughout the year. However, the trees will only be planted in the spring and fall of each calendar year. After installation, donators will receive a certificate and will be notified of the exact location of their specific tree. Donations are received in increments of $240. Once a tree has been planted, it will be added to the West Chicago Park District's virtual tree tour, along with the donator's name.

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Please fill out a Tree Donation form located below and return to: West Chicago Park District, 201 W. National Street, West Chicago, IL 60185 or dspence@we-goparks.org.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Parks Recreation Department makes the final determination as to where trees are placed within the park system. The West Chicago Park District is not responsible for damage to the donation as a result of weather or vandalism. The West Chicago Park District does not guarantee the lifespan of a tree donation past the 1-year warranty period. The West Chicago Park District will remove diseased and non-living trees at their discretion.

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The Park District uses an interactive web-based application through ArcGIS where visitors can explore the parks and find out information about the trees around them including species, height, diameter, crown spread and condition among other details.