The Prospect Heights Natural Resources Commission (PHNRC) is a commission of the City of Prospect Heights, reporting to the City Council and making recommendations for legislation and other actions that would pertain to the natural resources of the city. Their mission is to preserve, protect and restore natural areas and raise awareness of environmental issues affecting Prospect Heights Illinois. It is their goal to guide the community in natural open space preservation efforts and encourage private landowners to adopt land management practices that protect and enhance natural resources. They promote community awareness and education of environmental issues affecting Prospect Height’s natural resources such as Emerald Ash Borer, storm water and flood management and the threat of invasive species.
This is a volunteer network designed to enhance, restore and manage the natural areas and resources to maintain and improve their ecological health and biodiversity. During the year, they conduct work events where volunteers come together to participate in organized restoration projects. The Park District is working on an intergovernmental agreement with this conservation group as they provide volunteer hours and resources on park district properties: slough, ComEd Prairie, nature preserve, Tully Park, Heron Pond, Remnant Prairie, Remnant Sedge Meadow. Beyond shoreline restoration they also operate a native seed collection and greenhouse program, speakers’ series at the library, workshops at the Park District summer camp, summer internship program and bird watching sessions.
During the year, they conduct work events where volunteers come together to participate in organized restoration projects. They welcome all volunteers – regardless of age, residency, etc. Visit their website Home (phnrc.com) for more information or subscribe to their monthly publication called the “The Resources Journal” here: Prospect Heights Natural Resources Commission (list-manage.com)
2025 Prospect Heights Natural Resources Commission Honored for Outstanding Partnership
The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) has recognized the Prospect Heights Natural Resources Commission (PHNRC) for its exceptional contributions to parks, recreation, and conservation at the Best of the Best Awards Gala on October 24, 2025.
The Prospect Heights Park District nominated the PHNRC to acknowledge the countless hours its volunteers dedicate to improving the community and natural environment.
“We’ve built a successful partnership that maximizes resources and benefits residents throughout Prospect Heights,” said Christina Ferraro, Executive Director of the Park District. “The PHNRC is a model example of how intergovernmental cooperation creates lasting value.”
Together, the Park District and PHNRC have restored and enhanced natural spaces across the community — including a 5-acre prairie, 480-foot boardwalk and pedestrian bridge, and a 2-acre preserve. Over the past seven years, the partnership has secured five grants, representing hundreds of thousands of dollars in leveraged funding.
“Beyond the ecological impact, PHNRC volunteers contribute nearly 4,000 hours each year and offer free educational programs that build environmental stewardship across generations,” said Tim Jones, Park District Board President. “We’re proud that IAPD has recognized this valuable partnership.”
2024 Making a difference
The School Board 214 Board honored the Prospect Heights Natural Resources Commission for supporting District 214 interns in August 2024. The PHNRC provides students with hands-on experience in land management and environmental conservation. This highlight video was presented during a school board meeting and showcases the experiences of interns like Prospect High School’s Ava Foster. She shares how her internship solidified her passion for environmental science. Thank you to the Commission for inspiring our students and helping them discover their futures!
