Flint Creek Savanna

It can be hard to imagine the wetlands that were once integral to the original prairie; virtually all were drained and converted to crop production long ago. But I didn’t have to imagine this one. Barrington-based Citizens for Conservation, a volunteer group that purchased and began restoring this site 32 years ago, broke the agricultural drain tiles beneath it and restored its natural hydrology and associated native wetland species. It is one of a mosaic of high-quality prairie environments they have beautifully restored along Flint Creek. Since it was nearly frozen solid in February, I was able to gain a unique perspective framing the preserve’s restored prairies and gorgeous remnant oak groves.

Studio painting – February.

Other paintings from Flint Creek Savanna.