BYRON — The Ogle Natural Areas Alliance (ONAA) proudly hosted a grand opening ceremony recently for Ludwig Passage Preserve, a 14-acre conservation property now open to the public. Local leaders, conservation partners, volunteers, and community members gathered to celebrate the official unveiling of the preserve and the new trail system that enhances access to over 110 acres of connected public land along the Rock River and Mill Creek.
The preserve, established in 2023, was made possible through the support of the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, the Ludwig family, and cooperation with the Byron Forest Preserve District and the Byron Park District. The land was acquired and is managed by ONAA, a nonprofit conservation organization focused on protecting and restoring natural areas throughout Ogle County.
During the event, ONAA Board President Trevor Hogan expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the project and emphasized the value of collaboration in environmental protection.
“This is more than a piece of preserved land — it’s a connection point between people and nature,” said Hogan. “Thanks to the Ludwig family’s generosity, our partners, and volunteers, Ludwig Passage is now a place for hiking, learning, and habitat restoration — a true community asset.”
A key moment during the event included the unveiling of a new interpretive sign at the trailhead. The sign reads, in part:
“Established in 2023, the 14-acre Ludwig Passage Preserve is a vital parcel that connects Byron Park District's Riverfront Park and Byron Forest Preserve's Mill Creek Wetlands Preserve… This interconnected space not only expands the area for recreation but also protects additional river frontage and creates a more resilient natural habitat for wildlife to thrive.”
Visitors can now enjoy a .7-mile loop trail, with plans underway to restore 5 acres of native wetland prairie along River Drive, enhancing biodiversity and ecological resilience.
ONAA encourages the public to explore the new trail, learn more about native ecosystems, and support ongoing conservation efforts.
For more information, visit www.oglenaturalareasalliance.org or follow ONAA on social media.
