Ecosystems restored at Lockport Prairie, Prairie Bluff, aiding endangered flora, fauna

Six years ago, when officials gathered to announce a major ecosystem restoration project at two Will County forest preserves, the groundbreaking site was surrounded by corn. When another group of officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting May 31, the site was surrounded by prairie plants swaying in the breeze. The ceremony marked the completion of the six-year $8.3 million project that has transformed two Forest Preserve District of Will County preserves: Prairie Bluff in Crest Hill and Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve in Lockport Township. Speaking at the ribbon-cutting at Prairie Bluff...