Preserve. Protect. Educate.

Defending our environment and ecosystems for 55 years

The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County is a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to preserving our natural areas and resources, protecting natural resources, and educating the local community and government as advocates for a healthy environment. We are membership-based and volunteer-driven, creating positive change and influencing sustainable action.

Our Styrofoam Recycling Program is Returning!

To keep the Defenders’ Styrofoam Recycling Program available to our community, we need your support. Your donations directly fund and manage the collection, processing, and recycling of Styrofoam. We can’t do this without you!

ENVIRONMENTAL BLOG

Latest News and Articles

Spring 2026 EarthConnect

Spring 2026 EarthConnect Newsletter View/Download the Newsletter Digital Newsletter Flipbook

Winter 2026 EarthConnect

Winter 2026 EarthConnect Newsletter View/Download the Newsletter Digital Newsletter Flipbook

Published On: January 13, 2026Categories: Bookstores, Newsletters

January 2026 Bookstores’ News

Published On: December 16, 2025Categories: Bookstores, Newsletters

December 2025 Bookstores’ News

Published On: November 24, 2025Categories: Recycling

Update on our Recycling Program

Saturday, November 15, 2025, The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County Styrofoam Recycling Program will be suspended. Starting 11/15/2025, the Styrofoam Recycling Program will stop collecting Styrofoam [...]

OUR WORK

Current Initiatives

OUR WORK

Current Initiatives

EXPERIENCE AND COLLABORATE

Upcoming Events

Earth Day Mending

April 22 @ 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Sterne’s Fen Restoration Workday

April 26 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am