Illinois Mixed Bag: Forbes State Recreation Area reopening

Kinmundy, Ill. — Oak Ridge Campground at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area was scheduled to reopen to the public on June 20 following the completion of a significant $8.45 million infrastructure improvement project by DNR in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Transportation.

As part of the project, the aging structure known locally as “Thunder Bridge” was replaced with a modern three-span bridge to improve safety and access to the campground. Additional improvements included the installation of a precast box culvert, resurfacing of primary and secondary park roads, upgrades to parking lots, culvert replacements, new lighting, park signage, and guardrail installations.

By improving safety, accessibility, and comfort for visitors, the project ensures that the site remains a welcoming destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and future generations to enjoy.

Visitors can now make reservations for campsites and day-use areas at least three days in advance. For more information, contact the park directly at 618-547-3381.

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Fish Kill at Oak Forest Lagoon Creates Stink

Oak Forest, Ill. — A stench coming off of an Oak Forest lagoon, along with sightings of many dead fish, caused concern among residents, but officials say the situation appears to be natural.

The lagoon, managed by the Oak Forest Park District, with oversight from an environmental company, is home to a variety of fish, including bluegill, bass, carp, and catfish. The pond has not been manually stocked in many years, Oak Forest Park District Director of Parks and Recreation Kirstin Dahm told Patch.com.

Water samples were taken, and park district officials consulted with both ILM Environments and DNR in at attempt to pinpoint a cause for the casualties. Officials now believe the dead fish can be linked to a “dissolved oxygen event.”

4-H Fishing Tournament Hits Stretch Drive

Springfield — The Illinois “4-H Hooks Us Together” statewide fishing tournament continues through July 31, and “is off to a strong start,” organizers say.

“This tournament is a fantastic way for youth across Illinois to showcase their fishing skills and enjoy the outdoors all summer long,” said Curt Sinclair, University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development specialist.

Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories, with special recognition for the longest largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. All fish species are eligible—and every entry counts.

Topping the leaderboard as of June 15 were:

• Miles Robinson, Fulton County – 14-inch crappie

• Derrick Martin, Peoria County – 23-inch largemouth bass

• Bryce Stevenson, Jefferson County – 9-inch bluegill

• Remington Naas, White County – 28-inch channel catfish

Youth can submit their catches online now through July 31 at go.illinois.edu/fishing-hooks-us-together.

Veterans, Responders Invited to Fishing Camp

Bath, Ill. — Outdoor Veterans will host its 2025 Fishing Camp at Ketter’s Kamp 96 in Bath July 18-20.

Kent Ketter reported in mid-June that a few spots were remaining for the weekend designed to give military veterans and first responders with fishing, food, drinks and fun. Lodging is provided. The trip features a 24-hour fishing tournament and a full weekend of angling adventures. Participants will return home with fresh filets from the weekend’s catch.

• Friday: set up camp, set bank lines, dinner

• Saturday: fishing tournament, bags tournament, fish fry, awards ceremony

• Sunday: pull bank lines, break camp

For information, visit https://outdoorveterans.org

DuQuoin Fairgrounds to Host ‘Kids Fishing Day’

DuQuoin, Ill. — The Du Quoin State Fairgrounds and DNR will host a free kids’ fishing day on July 8.

The event, which begins at 9 a.m., is open to the first 25 children to register. Fishing poles, bait and instruction will be provided.

No fishing license is required for those under 16, but those 16 and older must have a license. Licenses can be purchased for $15 online or at vendors throughout Illinois.

Registration is required and can be done by calling (618) 542-1511.

Participants should meet at Expo Hall at 9 a.m. and bring sunscreen, bug spray, water, and a chair.

Workshops for Educators at Emiquon Preserve

Lewistown, Ill. — The Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon is offering a series of professional development workshops for educators to provide information and resources for Project WET, Project Learning Tree, and Project Wild’s Growing up Wild. Workshop participants will learn a variety of methods and activities to enhance their teaching of environmental science by incorporating hands-on activities to their lesson plans. State of Illinois licensed teachers may earn certified professional development units for participation and completion.

Cost is $50 per workshop, which includes supplies, an activity guide, certificate of completion, and ISBE credits if applicable. Registration is required at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/328845119

• July 9 – Getting Little Feet Wet & Growing up Wild, Pre-K to 2nd grade

• July 16 – Project Learning Tree, Pre-K-8th grade

• July 23 – Project WET, 3rd-8th grade

• July 30 – Project WET, 9-12th grade

All workshops are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.