Local investments deliver early wins for nature
March 24, 2026
The Chicago Lakefront: Protected, Yet Precarious
The Chicago lakefront is at a critical crossroads, with multi-billion-dollar developments being considered and federal environmental protections on the decline. A new report by Openlands breaks down the legal history, analyzes current safeguards, and offers a path forward through policy reforms.
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Committed to conserving nature for life.
Openlands protects the natural and open spaces of northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region to ensure cleaner air and water, protect natural habitats and wildlife, and help balance and enrich our lives.
71,000+
Acres Protected
in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin
15,000+
Acres Restored
to a healthy state for nature, wildlife, and people
10,000+
Trees Planted
throughout the Chicago region
2,200+
Volunteers
certified as TreeKeepers
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Explore nature in the region
Use our interactive maps to discover places and ways to enjoy nature in the region. Explore over 400 parks, preserves, and natural areas open to the public.
Get Involved in Our Programs
The Arborist Registered Apprenticeship is a 3-year training program administered by Openlands in partnership with the Department of Labor and tree care companies across the Chicago region. Apprentices work alongside industry professionals and gain hands-on experience, training, and skills to launch their green careers in arboriculture and urban forestry.
Bring free trees to your neighborhood by applying for the TreePlanters Grant. This opportunity is for residents of Chicago and south suburbs of Cook County who would like to facilitate a community tree planting day.
TreeKeepers are an ever-growing community of tree ambassadors that care for the Urban Forest in Chicagoland. Through the TreeKeeper Course, tree lovers of all ages and backgrounds gain accessible training and education that certify them as an official TreeKeeper. English and Spanish courses are offered.
Connecting people to nature where they live.
As innovative protectors and stewards of the land since 1963, Openlands exists to create access to nature for all. Through local alliances, forward vision, and persistent action, Openlands connects and leads conservation work, serving as a guiding voice for communities, organizations, and more effective policy in northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region.