Share

Harrison Benwell

Harrison Benwell is one of the McHenry County Conservation District’s oldest sites. It was one of the first properties acquired and the first site to open to the public in 1973.

Share

About Harrison Benwell

Recent restoration work in the oak and hickory woodland opened up the view and showcases the small stream that runs through the site. Species growth like Japanese Rose, European Buckthorn, Japanese Honeysuckle, Asian Bittersweet and Autumn Olive were removed from the site to restore the high-quality oak woodlands systems, enhance the woodland bird breeding habitat, and help improve the overall stream quality in Wonder Lake by reducing erosion, and create a more scenic vista. One result of management efforts is to improve the health of the oaks such that they will be better able to withstand the impacts of such outbreaks like that of the present gypsy moth.

More to Explore in McHenry County, IL

Crystal Lake, IL

Become an Openlander

Donate to make a difference. Your support as an Openlander ensures we can keep connecting people to nature in the Chicago region.
Scroll to Top