New signage at Kickapoo Creek Park points the way to the parks hidden treasures

[September 21, 2018]   LINCOLN - What do David Doolin, creator of Explorelogancounty.com, and Jim Struebing, University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist, have in common?

They are both supporters of Kickapoo Creek Park. That 160-acre mosaic of woods, prairies and parkland is a favorite destination for many Logan County resident. But David and Jim realized that a first-time sightseer might miss a great deal, and even regular visitors may be unfamiliar with some of the park’s many hidden treasures. The two decided to create some signage to remedy that situation.

Small signs were created so they wouldn’t detract from the natural beauty and peaceful ambience of their surroundings. But they also had to include maps that would show almost nine miles of winding trails and roads, as well as the locations and detailed descriptions of the many natural and manmade features scattered throughout the site. As Doolin explains, “The real challenge is to bring relevant information to visitors in a way that enhances their immediate experience.” The signs are flexible to accommodate updates. The solution was to create a network of signs that incorporated cell phone links to online information, with the option of using QR (quick response) codes for access.

To accomplish this goal, Jim and David identified 27 locations that needed signage. Then Jim, with assistance from fellow Master Naturalist volunteers, created descriptions that include naturalist and historical information about each location.

  David developed a series of maps using GPS coordinates that show features, roads and trails (including mileage). Then he linked each sign to its corresponding description and map on his Explore Logan County website. Finally David and Jim, with a crew of Master Naturalist volunteers, recently installed the signs throughout the park.

As Struebing says, “Now we hope Kickapoo Creek Park visitors will take advantage of the enhanced opportunities to enjoy nature so close to home.” The signage is definitely being used, according to Park Ranger Joe Funk. “I see mostly tourists using their phones to scan the signs,” he reports, “but long time visitors have also told me that the signs have taught them something about the park they never knew before.”

[Jennifer Fishburn
Horticulture Educator
University of Illinois Extension]