Partnering with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County: Modeling Archaeological Site and Landscape Sensitivity for Effective Resource Management

Despite being one of the most urbanized landscapes in the United States Cook County, Illinois has preserved nearly 70,000 acres of undeveloped land. Beginning shortly after the Civil War the movement to preserve the natural watersheds and landscapes of Chicago came to fruition near the end of the 19th century under the inspired leadership of prominent Chicago architect, Jens Jensen. Managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC) these lands contain nearly one-half of the known sites in the county. The Prairie Research Institute and its scientific surveys are working with the FPDCC to help the agency to better understand and manage their archaeological resources. Less than 20% of Forest Preserve lands have undergone systematic professional survey; less than 250 of the recorded sites have been professionally evaluated. Preliminary results of modeling site and landscape sensitivity, along with management recommendations, are discussed.