History: In 2001, land northwest of the roundabout at Roberts and River Roads, in the Village of Lake Barrington, was acquired by the Lake County Forest Preserve District. For almost 25 years, this land has been protected but has not been established as a fully restored forest preserve.

After the passage of the 2008 Forest Preserve referendum, some of the revenue approved by the voters was used to purchase additional parcels adjacent to this land in Lake Barrington.

If these combined parcels of land were restored, and a trail network was established, the protected open space would become an extension to the Fox River Forest Preserve.

Current Status: The many acres that make up the future extension to the Fox River Forest Preserve in Lake Barrington lack an approved design for trails and environmental restoration. The open space is in need of a Forest Preserve Master Plan. While overgrown and not maintained, the landscape does possess several areas for light recreational exploration, a few old driveways, and some seasonally mowed paths for trail hiking. The open space features marshes, oak groves, and rolling hills. A breathtaking vista at the center of the property provides a complete 360-degree view.

Forest Preserve District Ballot Question: In the November 5, 2024, election, taxpayers approved a bond issuance similar to the one adopted in 2008. With its passage, the Board of Lake County Forest Preserve Commissioners will decide which projects and priorities should be awarded referendum funds. Our Advocates believe that the Lake Barrington extension to the Fox River Preserve is a worthy area for the Forest Preserve District to “build” (restore for environmental protection and design for recreational enjoyment).

Our Goal: The objective of the Build Our Preserve Petition Project is to encourage the Lake County Forest Preserve Board of Commissioners and Staff to begin the Master Plan process for the design and establishment of the Fox River Preserve Extension in Lake Barrington. With the approval of the referendum, we believe that our tax dollars should be spent on this outstanding local open space.