KISHWAUKEE
BOTTOMS
(Anderson
Bend, Distillery, and LIB)
Getting There
The Bottoms are
made up of several individual conservation areas - Anderson Bend,
Distillery, and LIB - all located along the Kishwaukee River west of
Belvidere. The LIB entrance is located 2.5 miles west of Belvidere on
Newburg Road. An entrance from Distillery Road is located 2.5 miles west
of Belvidere on Business Route 20 and then 1.5 miles south on Distillery
Road. This accesses the cane launch, parking area, and both the Distillery
and Anderson Bend Conservation Areas. Click
here for a map.
Natural Considerations
These areas lie
on the banks of the Kishwaukee River and host flora and fauna typical of a northern
Illinois river bottom. Silver maple, sycamore, and willow trees dominate
lowlands adjacent to the river. These species are adapted to withstand
seasonal flooding. Low areas are dotted with wetlands which provide
ideal habitat for aquatic species, including turtles, frogs, and beaver.
Species of birds, including waterfowl and wading birds frequent the marsh.
Warblers utilize the area in the spring to rest and refuel before continuing
their journey north. Out of the floodplain are the oak savannah forests
which prefer better draining. Hardwoods including red and white oak,
and hickory trees dominate these ridges. These areas support a healthy
population of cavity nesting song birds due in part to the efforts of a local
birding enthusiast who places and monitors a variety of nest boxes.
History
For thousands
of years, the Kishwaukee River was used by the Native Americans to transport
goods for trade. The name Kishwaukee is derived from the Potowatomi word
meaning "river of the sycamore". Potowatomi Indians utilized
large sycamore trees found in the valley for dugout canoes. The river
also designates the northern most natural range of the sycamores.
In most recent
history, the area was used for agricultural purposes until the 1970's when it
was acquired by the Conservation District.
Opportunities for fun
Over 547 acres
of wild land exists here and contains very little development, so they
opportunity to tune out society and connect with nature is available.
Hikers and skiers can utilize the 7.6 miles of trails which wind through
prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Canoeing enthusiasts can take
advantage of the launch site which provides ease of access to the water.
Activities and Facilities
Hiking trail, cross country
skiing, restroom, canoe launch, fishing.
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