About

The Boone County Conservation District (BCCD) was the first Conservation District established in the state of Illinois in 1964. Our mission is to preserve and manage natural areas and open spaces for ecological, educational, and recreational benefits of present and future generations. Today the BCCD manages over 4,000 acres of open space in Boone County. These important conservation lands are called conservation areas rather than parks to reflect the primary purpose of these publicly held and managed lands.

Over 2,000-acres of these important conservation lands are situated within or adjacent to the city limits of Belvidere, primarily located along the Kishwaukee River. These areas play a key role in mitigating floodwaters and stormwater runoff, important functions that benefit this community. Belvidere, and all Boone County, residents depend on groundwater as their water supply. Conservation Areas along the Kishwaukee River help contribute to this natural process of replenishment. And, because the BCCD manages sites with little to no chemicals or fertilizers, they also contribute to the benefits associated with water quality.