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Walter Preserve Donated to Park District

The Walter Preserve has been in Wanda Walter’s family for generations and she wants to see it conserved as a legacy for the future.

“There’s so much development happening all around, the animals need a place to live too,” said Wanda in describing her donation of 80 acres to Portage Park District.

Located near the Palmyra town hall, the property includes about 50 acres of woods and 30 acres of old farm field with wetlands scattered throughout and a meandering stream. The Park District will not open the park property until the necessary funds are found to develop facilities and maintain them, though the process of inventorying the natural resources and creating a stewardship plan that identifies possible uses and restoration needs has already begun. 

“We’re looking forward to working with the community and taking care of the property”, said Christine Craycroft, Park District Executive Director, “We greatly appreciate Wanda’s vision for the future and her generosity in making this donation to protect the natural heritage of the area, she’s a special lady.”