Within the city of Elgin, Illinois, Bluff Springtime Fen Nature Preserve offers an oasis of natural beauty and ecological significance, but it encompasses one hundred acres of untouched wilderness, providing a sanctuary for anyone looking appreciate fresh air and appealing scenery… Unique geological features, a diverse ecosystems and a long-standing history of conservation efforts makes Bluff Springtime Fen, a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of the city; The Fen takes its name from the “fen” type of wetland, characterized by the presence of alkaline, mineral-rich groundwater seeping through limestone bedrock.
This unproper geological phenomenon creates an assortment of wetland habitats for all sorts of plant species, many of which are found only in this single spot in the state of Illinois… A tour of the preserve offers a complex network of boardwalks and trails that wind through these natural rarities, and wooden paths lead through lush fern meadows, providing an opportunity to explore the delicate ecosystem with minimal human footprint.
There are over five hundred plant species represented at Bluff Springtime Fen Nature Preserve in Elgin, including numerous rare and endangered ones, but one of the most interesting is the Eastern Prairie Finged Orchid. This especially appealing orchid is a threatened species and is the focus of the preserve’s conservation efforts. Along with rich plant diversity there are a variety of wildlife species, and birdwatchers can find migratory doves and year-round feathered friends such as the Red-winged Blackbird and Eatern Bluebird. Inspects, amphibians and reptiles abound, making the preserve a rewarding destination of wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers, and since the 1960s, worried Elgin citizens have recognized the preservation of rare fen ecosystem as a a priority and have worked to protect it from urban development.