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PROPOSED PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
Request: Requesting authorization for the Forest Preserves of Cook County (the “Forest Preserves”) to enter into a Partnership Agreement with Openlands, Chicago, Illinois.
Reason: The Forest Preserves desires to partner with Openlands to conduct at least 15.5 acres of habitat restoration at Camp Pine Woods in northeast Cook County. The project aims to restore and enhance the ecological integrity of shrubland savanna habitat at the site through invasive species removal, shrub thinning, and annual monitoring. The project will improve habitat quality for declining bird species, as well as other species of conservation concern.
The work will be conducted at no direct cost to the Forest Preserves. The current work is valued at approximately $65,000.00, but with future fundraising efforts by Openlands in association with this project, the value of restoration activities at Camp Pine Woods might increase to $100,000.00 in total.
Contract Period: 9/15/2026 - 12/31/2033
Fiscal Impact: N/A. The project will be conducted at no direct cost to the Forest Preserves, which may provide in-kind staff support for the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the projects.
Account(s): N/A
Concurrences: The Chief Financial Officer has approved this item. Final agreement is subject to legal review and approval.
District(s): 14
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