June 11, 2025. Vol. 33. No. 3. RockRiverTimes.com.
Rewilding the Fairways: A Hike & Lecture with Ann Wasser - On Thursday, June 19, join Wild Ones Rock River Valley Chapter for an evening with Ann Wasser, Executive Director of Severson Dells Nature Center, as she leads a hike and lecture at the evolving landscape of the former Elliot Golf Course — a site undergoing a rewilding transformation. This free, open-to-the-public experience will give attendees a firsthand look at how previously manicured greens are being restored to native habitats, and a chance to learn about trends in golf course rewilding, the ecological vision driving the project, and how rewilding supports biodiversity, climate resilience, and community well-being. The guided tour starts at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6:30 p.m.; the meeting place for both activities is the former Elliot Golf Course Clubhouse, 8200 Alaska Road, Rockford (entrance is on S. Lyford Road). Almost one year ago, on June 25, 2024, Severson Dells announced the acquisition of the shuttered 168-acre Elliot Golf Course from Rockford Park District. Severson Dells’ expansion to the east side will allow it to extend services and programs, and create an urban nature preserve to complement its popular west-side education center. This endeavor combines ecological restoration, environmental education, and sustainable tourism to create a thriving hub for residents and visitors alike. About Ann Wasser Ann Wasser is the Executive Director at Severson Dells Nature Center. The center’s mission is to connect people to nature through education and research in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Before her time at Severson Dells, she was the Director of Education at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. She has almost two decades of experience in informal science education. Ann received the Association of Nature Center Administrators Outstanding New Director Award in 2019 and the Excellence in Leadership Award from the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in 2021. Ann received her BS in Earth Systems Science and Policy with a concentration in Marine and Coastal Ecology from California State University, Monterey Bay, and an MEd in Science Education from the University of Washington. About Wild Ones Rock River Valley Chapter Wild Ones is a national not-for-profit organization with over 90 chapters advocating for the many benefits of growing native plants in home and other landscapes. For more than 30 years, the Rock River Valley Chapter has been educating the community about the importance of restoring natural ecosystems in residential and commercial spaces. The chapter hosts events, workshops, and presentations to inspire individuals and organizations to embrace native landscaping for a healthier planet. To learn more about meetings and events, read newsletters, and find links to informative references, please visit www.wildonesrrvc.org.