This in-depth guide was developed in 2018 by The Morton Arboretum to assist private landowners to preserve and manage native oak woodlands, conserve wildlife habitat, and protect nature and the different plants and animals that are part of oak ecosystems. This guide will help many to protect and plant more oak trees on their properties or within their communities.

The report is accompanied by 26 appendices and a glossary, which include details and additional resources relevant to the Illinois region.

Links for the Best Management Practices Report and Appendices

Best Management Practices: Oak Ecosystem Restoration, Regeneration, and Maintenance

Appendix A  Site Inventory Template

Appendix B  Native Oak Trees

Appendix C  Native Shrubs

Appendix D  Native Forbs

Appendix E  Native Grasses

Appendix F  Native Sedges

Appendix G  Invasive Herbaceous Plants in our Region

Appendix H  Common Birds of Illinois

Appendix I  Common Mammals of Illinois

Appendix J Common Reptiles and Amphibians of Illinois

Appendix K Site Map Template

Appendix L Photo Journal

Appendix M Oak Pruning and Care

Appendix N Common Oak Pests and Diseases

Appendix O IL District Foresters and IDNR Contacts

Appendix P Chicago Wilderness Burn Crew Training

Appendix Q Conservation @Home

Appendix R Conservation Foundation

Appendix S Plant Healthcare Resources

Appendix T Chicago Wilderness Oak Ecosystem Recovery Plan

Appendix U Critical Wildlife Species

Appendix V General Best Management Practices for Pesticides

Appendix W Tree Inventory Software

Appendix X Oak Distribution Maps

Appendix Y How to Grow Oak Seedlings

Appendix Z Common Oaks of Illinois

Glossary

About The Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum’s mission is to collect and study trees, shrubs, and other plants from around the world, to display them across naturally beautiful landscapes for people to study and enjoy, and to learn how to grow them in ways that enhance our environment. The Morton Arboretum’s goal is to encourage the planting and conservation of trees and other plants for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world.

Supported by

USDA Forest Service