The Wild Things 2023 Conference invites nature enthusiasts from across Illinois and beyond to learn about the flora, fauna, and natural history of the Prairie State! Join a community of 3,000 volunteers, conservationists, and natural resource professionals at the 2023 Conference to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Illinois Nature Preserves.

We’re thrilled to welcome you again to learn and share your expertise with our community. We’ve put together an exciting lineup workshops and sessions from regional and national experts, plus meet & greets, video content, exhibitors, and sponsors.

With dozens presentations and discussion panels to choose from, the in-person program engages a diverse range of topics, research, and skills, and plenty of opportunities to meet with friends, old and new! For those who are unable to attend in person, there will be a virtual program featuring a selection of our most popular presentations. Students can also access discounted admission for the in-person program.

About Wild Things

The Wild Things Community is recognized as one of the nation’s largest networks of people engaged with nature. The community is made up of stewards, monitors, advocates, educators, Chicago Wilderness members, volunteers, and staff, all working together to promote and protect the prairies, woodlands, wetlands, wild yards, and natural parks of Illinois, northwest Indiana, and southeast Wisconsin.

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