WINNEBAGO COUNTY, Ill (WTVO) — The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County (FPWC) has named its 45th forest preserve after the late Paula Swanson, an active member in the Rockford community and avid birdwatcher.
According to a press release, the 88-acre property is located along the Sugar River in Shirland, which was purchased from the McKee family through a donation by Swanson and a limited tax bond.
Officials say the newly named Paula Swanson Forest Preserve is in an area of natural resources, including high-quality wetland and river frontage habitats that support diverse wildlife, including waterfowl, songbirds, amphibians, and reptile species…