Village Voices - We don't write papers, we build scrapbooks

Entries are coming in for the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation's 'Biggest Tree Contest'. Gather the family for a hike in your back 40, set aside, or tree stands to discover and record the largest native trees within each of the designated species that grow in Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson counties.

For those living in town, take a look in your own fronts yards, head to public parks and preserves, or take a drive along less-traveled roads in search of big trees. We hope that in your pursuit of these giants, you will become more aware of the beauty and importance of Illinois' native...