Northerly Island

Northerly Island on Lake Michigan was used as a private airport until 2003, and sat unused and contributing no ecological or public benefits until 2012, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposed a restoration project. This project would restore 16 hectares into 6 habitats native to the Chicago area: lacustrine, dunal pond–lacustuary lagoon, emergent marsh, wet prairie, mesic prairie, and savanna. This area is now home to native vegetation and both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. This is an important oasis for Chicago residents and visitors, providing recreation opportunities and an escape into nature from the city.