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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING SHEDD AQUARIUM FOR RECEIVING AN OUTSTANDING SUPPORT ORGANIZATION AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION OFFICIALS
WHEREAS, in June 2025, Shedd Aquarium (Shedd) was honored with an Outstanding Support Organization award from the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials that recognizes organizations that make a significant contribution to benefit park and recreation programs, facilities, operations, or organizational support; and
WHEREAS, Shedd, a world-renowned aquarium, research and conservation institution and long-time partner of the Forest Preserves of Cook County (Forest Preserves), was recognized for its efforts to protect, restore, and research freshwater ecosystems with the Forest Preserves and to develop environmental education opportunities for visitors, local communities, and students of all ages; and
WHEREAS, Shedd biologists monitor and study the health and populations of frogs, salamanders, turtles and mussels and other wetlands species who make the forest preserves their home, in order to help guide conservation efforts; and
WHEREAS, Shedd has been instrumental in the protection of native animals, including the Illinois state endangered Blanding's turtle, working in partnership with the Forest Preserves to successfully rear baby Blanding's hatchlings for their eventual release within the forest preserves; and
WHEREAS, as part of the Forest Preserves' ecological stewardship program, Shedd's adoption of Bob Mann Woods and Skokie Lagoons has helped remove invasive species allowing amphibian populations to recover; and
WHEREAS, Shedd is dedicated to building a community of support for wetland habitats and the plants and animals that depend on them by recruiting and providing support to new volunteers, developing volunteer leaders, and leading volunteer workdays; and
WHEREAS, Shedd engages high school and college students in the study of biodiversity at Forest...
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