Volunteers ask Manteno board to approve interpretive signs at Rock Creek pollinator area

Volunteers who steward the Rock Creek Wildflower and Pollinator Area presented a proposal on March 17 asking the village to support installation of interpretive signs at the restoration site.

Dale Bowman and Amber Spruill, who identified themselves as stewards and volunteers affiliated with Illinois Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists, described the 20‑acre site, the presence of 26 native plant species and the conservation value of the prairie. Spruill said the signs would include a map, species information and guidance to discourage all‑terrain vehicles and other damaging activities.

The group requested four signs: two large entrance signs and two smaller interpretive/invasive‑species identification panels. They presented three vendor estimates and a local design quote; the volunteers said prices ranged from a vendor that would design and supply finished signs to lower‑cost metal‑and‑vinyl options that would require village help for wood framing and installation. The presenters said one local firm had produced comparable signage at another prairie and that local fabrication options could lower shipping and design costs.

Board members asked procedural questions about timing and installation. The stewards said prescribed burns had been delayed because the contractor was behind schedule and that the next realistic window might be in the fall. The properties and recreation committee agreed to refer the sign proposal to the next committee meeting so staff and trustees can review costs and installation logistics.