Per the Barrington Hills Park District website:
“Forest Preserve Master Plan Presentation for Horizon Farm & Spring Creek
When: Nov. 8, 2023 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Riding (Club’s) Meeting Room, 361 Bateman Road, Barrington Hills
What: The Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC) developed a long-term, comprehensive master plan for Horizon Farm and Spring Creek which they will share with the public.
You are welcome to attend the meeting to learn the details of how this plan addresses conservation and recreational issues.
Share your thoughts with the forest preserve about their future development of Horizon Farm and Spring Creek. The Park District will present your comments to the Forest Preserve representatives.”
Editorial note: It’s concerning recommendations are being sent to the Park District only instead copying officials at the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
Therefore, we strongly encourage residents save their suggestions submitted to the Park District, and utilize the official Forest Preserves of Cook County “Contact Form” to directly communicate those recommendations under the, ”Planning and Development,” category. Make sure your comments reference, “Future development of Horizon Farm and Spring Creek.”
Key elements of concerns to ensure that Horizon Farm’s natural habitat is protected and managed in the most conservative and efficient manner:
Ecological Integrity:
Question: How are the planned developments ensuring the protection of the unique ecological systems and species native to Horizon Farm?
Suggestion: Residents can request a comprehensive environmental impact assessment before any further developments.
Conservation Easement Amendments:
Question: What specific changes are being proposed to the existing conservation easement with the Barrington Area Conservation Trust (BACT)?
Suggestion: Residents can advocate for maintaining stringent conservation requirements and ensure that any amendments prioritize the site’s ecological health.
Stakeholder Representation:
Question: Are a wide variety of stakeholders, including local ecologists, conservationists, and indigenous representatives (if applicable), being consulted?
Suggestion: Residents can recommend the inclusion of diverse voices, ensuring that decisions made are holistic and representative.
Trail Development:
Question: How will the multi-use trail systems ensure minimal ecological impact and avoid potential user conflicts?
Suggestion: Residents can suggest designated trails for different activities (hiking, biking, horse riding) and periodic trail maintenance checks.
Facilities and Infrastructure:
Question: What measures are being taken to ensure that any new facilities or infrastructure changes are sustainable and have minimal ecological disruption?
Suggestion: Residents can emphasize the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and minimal footprint facilities.
Demolition and Site Rehabilitation:
Question: How will the demolition of over 20 buildings be managed to minimize pollution and environmental disturbance?
Suggestion: Residents can advocate for safe, green demolition practices and the reuse or recycling of materials where possible.
Public Safety and Site Integrity:
Question: With the phased opening and existing structures in disrepair, how will visitor safety and habitat integrity be ensured?
Suggestion: Residents can recommend clear signage, designated safe zones, and periodic safety reviews.
Historic Preservation:
Question: Are any of the structures or sites within Horizon Farm of historical or cultural significance? If so, how will they be preserved?
Suggestion: Residents can request a heritage assessment and propose adaptive reuse of significant structures.
Commercial Interests:
Question: What were the outcomes of the 2015 RFP for market feasibility, and how will these align with conservation goals?
Suggestion: Residents can advocate for prioritizing conservation over commercial gains, ensuring any commercial interests are compatible with the site’s primary purpose.
Connectivity and Broader Network:
Question: How will developments at Horizon Farm ensure compatibility and seamless connectivity with nearby preserves and trail networks, like Spring Creek Preserve?
Suggestion: Residents can promote integrated trail networks that cater to both ecological movements and human activities without conflict.
In bringing these elements forward, we hope to play an essential role in guiding the direction of Horizon Farm’s future, ensuring both its ecological preservation and its utility for recreation and education.