History
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County was established in 1915 when voters cast ballots to protect against the removal of woodlands. For the first year of operation, $8,000 was appropriated to create, manage and maintain the new forest preserve. County supervisors who governed the District spent the next two years working out operating details for the fifth county forest preserve district in the country. In 1917, the first tax levy was made and the first preserve land was purchased: 79 acres in Oak Brook, called York Woods. Today, the Forest Preserve District owns and manages more than 24,000 acres and has an annual budget of more than $175 million. Each year, more than 3.1 million people visit the Forest Preserve District's 600+ acres of shimmering lakes, 60 miles of river and streams, and over 100 miles of trails that offer scenic views and many fun ways to enjoy your leisure time.