On Wednesday, November 13, the Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a 9.4-acre property it has sought for 36 years.

The land, located on Cuba Road east of Ela Road, will be acquired for $725,000 to expand Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve in Deer Park.

"This property aligns perfectly with our mission to protect wildlife habitats, preserve wetlands, prairies and woodlands and expand our existing preserves," said Executive Director Ty Kovach. "In 1988, we bought 110 acres that wraps around this parcel and have been waiting for the chance to secure this land.”

The landowner demolished buildings to plant native species on the land but ultimately chose not to rebuild, instead listing the property for sale. As part of the agreement, the seller has restricted the Forest Preserves from placing any structures or otherwise developing the property.

The contract states that the Forest Preserves will apply for the parcel to be designated as an Illinois Nature Preserve, buffer or Illinois Land and Water Reserve. Though it will be open to the public, a deed restriction prohibits the construction of trails, parking lots, ball fields, golf facilities or dog exercise areas.

The section of Cuba Marsh next to the property is protected by a land and water reserve conservation easement from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.

This acquisition will enhance hydrologic restoration efforts and make it easier to carry out prescribed burns and other land management activities at Cuba Marsh.

"We are excited to continue the restoration efforts on this new property, further enhancing the preservation of this important area," said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

Media Contact: Kim Mikus, Media and Community Relations Specialist, kcroke@LCFPD.org, 224-244-0583

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