Our Programs
Buckthorn Bounty
We need you! We’re paying citizens* to help protect the local ecosystem by removing the invasive species Buckthorn (rhamnus cathartica) from their private properties.
*At this time we are only accepting applications from residents within the 60047. Sign up is free!
Save the Monarchs
The monarch butterfly population has declined by 90% in the last decade, mainly due to the loss of milkweed habitat and pesticide use. The Save the Monarch program aims to reverse this by empowering people to help restore monarch habitats in their own backyards. The Ancient Oaks Foundation is leading this effort in Ela Township, with several butterfly-friendly gardens already established. To help, we are offering free milkweed seeds (while supplies last), as these plants are vital for monarch reproduction. Contact us to receive your free packet and help support monarchs.
Community Canopy Project
Coming soon in 2026! The Ancient Oaks Foundation will be leading an effort to restor the canopy coverage in Lake Zurich, ensuring healthy ecosystems and enjoyable green spaces for generations to come.
Environmental Scholarship
🌳 Congratulations to our 2026 Environmental Scholarship recipient, William Ziesemer!
William has been a familiar and beloved face at Ancient Oaks for the past four years — showing up, digging in, and doing the quiet, meaningful work of conservation alongside our volunteers. His passion for habitat restoration and native species isn't something he discovered on paper; it's something he's lived.
We couldn't be more proud to support William as he continues his journey in environmental science. The future of conservation is in good hands. 🌿