June 4, 2020 – The Macon County Conservation District is continuing to exercise caution in an effort to help control the spread of COVID-19. As Macon County and its region moves into Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois Plan, the status of the Conservation District’s amenities are as follows (as of June 1, 2020):
· All Conservation Areas (Rock Springs Conservation Area, Fort Daniel Conservation Area, Friend Creek Conservation Area, Sand Creek Conservation Area, and Griswold Conservation Area) continue to remain open for hiking, walking, and nature exploration. As you visit these areas, you must continue to follow all social distancing guidelines. Pets are welcome to enjoy the conservation areas with you, but all pets must be leashed at all times.
· At the conservation areas, outdoor restrooms are now open. Drinking fountains and playgrounds remain closed.
· Sometimes trails close due to flooding. You may check the status of trails at any time, on the homepage of the District’s website, under “News & Announcements”: MaconCountyConservation.org.
· For the time being, Rock Springs Nature Center is open by appointment, for conducting office business. For example, you may make an appointment to come in person if you are unable to make an activity transaction by phone or
online. To schedule an appointment, call 217-423-7708. All those entering the building will be required to wear a mask, if they can medically tolerate doing so.
· Friends Creek Campground is now open, with the exception of the single large group campsite. The campground offers both electric and non-electric campsites. Daily fees for electric sites are $17 for Macon County residents, $20 for non-residents. Non-electric sites are $10 for Macon County residents and $12 for non-residents. You may reserve campsites over the phone by calling 217-423-7708. Campsites are otherwise allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.
· Pavilions at conservation areas are once again available for rent. However, the maximum number of occupants has been reduced to 10 people, and groups are expected to follow social distancing guidelines during their gatherings. Unless a pavilion has a reservation sign posted, they are otherwise available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. To rent a pavilion call 217-423-7708.
· Programs: This year’s Summer Concert Series will be streamed live on Facebook, beginning Sunday, June 7 at 7pm. Staff are planning additional educational activities for families and individuals this summer. Watch for these to be announced on MaconCountyConservation.org and on the Conservation District’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MaconCountyConservationDistrict.
For more information about the Macon County Conservation District, visit MaconCountyConservation.org.
15 Second PSA – All Macon County Conservation Areas continue to remain open for hiking, walking, and nature exploration. When you visit, continue to follow all social distancing guidelines. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed at all times
