McHenry County Conservation District is accepting public comments on recreational amenities being planned for Harrison Benwell Conservation Area, 7055 McCullom Lake Rd., Wonder Lake. A map of the proposed site improvements can be viewed online Harrison Benwell through July 18 or at the District’s Brookdale Administrative Offices, 18410 US Highway 14, Woodstock, Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m.
Comments and suggestions are also welcome by email, Planning@MCCDistrict.org. A public viewing of the draft plan will be held Thursday, July 21 from 4-6 p.m. at the District’s Brookdale Administrative Offices. Maps will be displayed and staff will be on hand to answer any questions.
Proposed site improvements at Harrison Benwell, a 75 acre site, include a larger 20 space parking lot, improved ADA restroom, two picnic shelters, fire pit and 1.5 - 2 mile looped ADA asphalt/paver trail that winds through upland grasslands, savannas, and oak woodland.
Harrison Benwell is the District’s oldest site. It was one of the first properties acquired and the first site to open to the public in 1973. Recent restoration work in the oak and hickory woodland opened up the view and showcases the small stream that runs through the site. Currently this site is open for hiking, picnicking and cross-country skiing opportunities.
The tentative timeline for this project is to present the final Master Plan at the August 18 board meeting. If approved, plans will be submitted for the 2012-2013 budget and permitting and engineering work will begin. For more information call (815) 338-6223.
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