PrairieWalk Pond Earns Recognition from Chicago Wilderness

from the Village of Lisle

The 's beautiful has received yet another accolade.

Chicago Wilderness announced that the new 4.5 acre natural recreation area in downtown Lisle has earned a “2011 Conservation and Native Landscaping Award.” The award will be presented during the 2011 Conservation and Native Landscape Awards Ceremony on Dec. 7 at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

The Conservation and Native Landscaping Awards recognize sites that are exemplary in the use of native landscaping, ecosystem restoration and protection and/or conservation design. These practices create and protect habitat for a variety of native plant and animal species and result in important environmental benefits for both people and nature.

Chicago Wilderness recognized the transformation of a block of flood plain property into a landscape rich in native habitat and biodiversity; the sustainable features that were incorporated into the design, the long term planned maintenance program, public education activities, and the Village’s commitment to biodiversity conservation.

PrairieWalk is located at the intersection of Route 53 and Burlington Avenue in downtown Lisle. It contains a two-acre pond which effectively manages downtown storm water, lighted walking trails, a gazebo, diverse native landscaping, seating areas, colorful fountains and a delightful nature themed children’s play area called Dragonfly Landing. The project was made possible in part with a $400,000 OSLAD Grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.