Join the Illinois Forestry Association for a morning of exploration at Antler Ridge, a 245-acre privately owned property in east-central Illinois. Owned by Alva and Elsie Miller since 2001, this site is a premier example of how active forest management, prairie restoration, and wildlife habitat enhancement work in harmony.
What to Expect: We will take a guided walking tour through the property to discuss diverse management strategies. The hike is approximately 2 miles long and is classified as easy-to-moderate; the trails are well-groomed and relatively flat, though there are a few short, steeper sections to navigate.
Morning Refreshments & Facilities: Start your morning right! We will have water, coffee, and donuts available for all attendees during check-in. For your convenience, there is also a bathroom available on-site.
Highlights include:
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Diverse Habitats: Explore 70 acres of tillable ground—much of which is now managed as Native Warm Season Grass (NWSG) prairie—alongside bottomlands and a stocked pond.
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Active Management: Learn about the reforestation of 14 acres of bottomland and the use of prescribed fire to control invasive species.
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Wildlife Sightings: View a property designed to support Wood Ducks, Mallards, Wild Turkeys, and Quail, as well as the famous spring display of bluebells (timing permitting).
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Expert Insights: Hear from Doug Brown (former IDNR Biologist) on habitat principles and Jay Gingerich (Gingerich Tree Farm) on establishing mast-producing trees.
What to Bring: Please wear sturdy hiking boots and dress for the weather and field conditions. We look forward to seeing you at the ridge!
Note on Directions: Use Google Maps, Apple Maps is incorrect. Access the property from 900N to 2150E, then turn left (east) on 800N. Please avoid 2275E via 800N, as that section is a steep dirt road and often impassable in wet conditions. We will post signage to make it easier to navigate.
Doug Brown is a retired wildlife biologist with 33 years of professional experience managing private and public land in Illinois. He grew up in rural east central Illinois with an interest in everything outdoors; attending Lake Land Community College and then Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.
His management approach is based on habitat establishment, maintenance, and enhancement. He concentrates on healthy plant communities to accomplish more holistic goals on the landscape. This approach also provides benefits to various wildlife species, enhancing the overall health of the focus properties.
