La Salle library virtually hosts program on Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

The La Salle Public Library will virtually host Veronica Hinke, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie public affairs officer and public services team leader, when she presents part one of a two-part program on Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1.

The USDA Forest Service’s Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is located on 18,500 acres in Wilmington, where the former Joliet Army Ammunition Plant once stood. At one time, tallgrass prairies dominated more than 60% of the landscape in Illinois — more than 21 million acres. Presently, less then one hundredth of 1% of Illinois is native tallgrass prairie. In part one of this two-part program, learn about the origins and geography of this very special place, explore wetlands and prairie, and find out about wildlife, and why ecological restoration is important at this site, located only 64 miles from La Salle.

The second part of this program will be virtually presented 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 1. Details to register for that part will be available closer to that date.

As a child, Hinke started her neighborhood Ranger Rick club and was involved in her local library. She continues to try to make a difference in helping people connect in more ways with nature.

This program is free and open to all. Register by going to — https://bit.ly/3fkRGb5. For more information, contact the La Salle Public Library at 815-223-2341.