HomeParks and nature
Parks and nature
Lansing is home to a large number of parks that are managed by the Lan-Oak Park District, a branch of local government separate from the Village Board. In addition, we are part of a larger community that includes Cook County Forest Preserves and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. All these entities develop programs that are a resource for residents who are interested in outdoor activities, climate, environment, and animals that surround us and impact community life.
IDNR accepting grant applications
For Recreational Trails Program (RTP), Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV), and Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Programs
information provided by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (January...
Sharing space with coyotes
Tips and tidbits about these intelligent creatures
by Carrie Steinweg
LANSING, Ill. (January 2019) - You may notice more critters in your yard this time of...
A year of firsts
2018 in Lansing, Illinois
LANSING, Ill. (January 2019) – The Lansing Journal published 1,074 articles in 2018, averaging 89.5 stories each month. Our least prolific...
Illinois to Michigan: Put your money where the carp is
Michigan’s $8 million offer welcome, but should be put toward immediate efforts, not 10 years from now
information provided by the Office of the Governor
CHICAGO,...
Illinois EPA celebrates America Recycles Day
Curbside Recycling Guide and Collection Location Map developed to encourage proper residential recycling
information provided by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (November 17, 2018)...
Re-enactors portray 1600s through Civil War during annual Settlers’ Day
Sunday, November 18 event to include living history demonstrations, history hikes
information provided by Forest Preserves of Cook County
SOUTH HOLLAND, Ill. (November 15, 2018)...
Villas of Lansing addresses phragmites invasion with controlled burn
Cardno Environmental contracted to manage natural detention pondby Melanie Jongsma
LANSING, Ill. (November 14, 2018) - A sunny, windless day seemed like a perfect opportunity...
Illinois Firearm Deer Season opens November 16-18
IDNR reminds hunters to focus on safety
information provided by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (November 13, 2018) – Deer hunters are reminded...
New Date for Opening Day of Forest Preserves of Cook County permit sales
November 15: Picnic and special event permits available online and in person
information provided by the Forest Preserves of Cook County
COOK COUNTY, Ill. (November 3,...
Governor announces expansion of Starved Rock, Matthiessen state parks
State acquires 2,629 acres of open space from Lone Star Industries
information provided by the Office of the Governor
OGLESBY, Ill. (October 26, 2018) — Governor...
How to move a tree
With the right tools, anything is possible
by Melanie Jongsma
LANSING, Ill. (October 24, 2018) - Today was moving day for the Blue Spruce that had...
Lan-Oak Park District’s first drone-making class teaches practical skills
Electronics, small motor skills, cause and effect, eye-hand coordination, and more
by Jennifer Yos
LANSING, Ill. (October 23, 2018) - This fall the Lan-Oak Park District...
Park district to evaluate Halloween Parade
Declining participation raises possibilities for new traditions
by Melanie Jongsma
LANSING, Ill. (October 17, 2018) - "We need to start thinking about the Halloween Parade," said...
Governor Rauner announces $1.5 million in Recreational Trails Program grants
information provided by the Office of the Governor
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (October 15, 2018) – Governor Bruce Rauner today announced nearly $1.6 million dollars has been...
Lansing dogs and owners mingle at dog park Grand Opening
Paws 'n Play ribbon-cutting includes dog treats, people food, vendor giveaways, and a K9 demonstration
by Melanie Jongsma
LANSING, Ill. (October 13, 2018) - "This has...