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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING JOHN McCABE, DIRECTOR OF RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE FOREST PRESERVES OF COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, John McCabe is recognized for 25 years of full time service with the Forest Preserves of Cook County, and for being an effective advocate for conservation in the region; and
WHEREAS, John McCabe began his career as a Student Forester for the Forest Preserves while pursuing a degree in Forestry at Michigan Technological University; and
WHEREAS, he served in a variety of roles including Woodsman, Forester, Resource Manager, Safety and Training Coordinator, Deputy Director, and currently as the Director of Resource Management; and
WHEREAS, under his leadership, the Department of Resource Management has revitalized land management programs, initiated strategic restoration at an unprecedented scale in Forest Preserve history, and attained other significant accomplishments including enacting new tree protection and mitigation policies, expanding the prescribed fire program, and implementing the Conservation Corps job training programs for over 2,000 youth and young adults; and
WHEREAS, over the past 30 years, he coordinated many projects and created networks with volunteers, municipalities, partner organizations, contractors and interns to ensure responsible and effective habitat management; and
WHEREAS, John McCabe serves as the co-chair of the Next Century Conservation Plan's Nature Committee and was a key proponent for the creation of the Natural and Cultural Resources Master Plan, which has led to the creation of the Forest Preserves' first seed sourcing policy, comprehensive descriptions of the Forest Preserves' natural and cultural resources, and prioritized restoration plans for ensuring effective conservation of those resources into the future; and
WHEREAS, he has participated in over 600 prescribed fires during his tenure, he is a recognized expert in conducting prescribed burns in the urban environment, and h...
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