Having lived next to the serene wilderness that borders what is soon to become the Meadow Wood East Subdivision, I have had the unparalleled privilege of witnessing the rich biodiversity this forested area supports. This intimacy with nature is not just a luxury; it is vital for my family's well-being and the ecological balance of our community.

Sadly, the announcement of the upcoming development threatens to strip this region of its natural beauty and ecological significance. The plan involves clearing extensive tracts of forest, essential habitats for many species, disrupting the area's delicate ecosystems and the lives that depend on them. According to the Forest Ecosystem Institute, deforestation in suburban areas not only affects wildlife but also alters weather patterns and increases the risk of flooding due to loss of natural water filtrations.

The forested and wetland area near Tanglewood and the continuation of Manchester Road in Lake Zurich / Hawthorn Woods is one of the most beautiful and defining parts of our community.

This area is home to an incredible variety of wildlife — deer, coyotes, foxes, sandhill cranes, owls, hawks, eagles, raccoons, opossums, and over 20 species of birds. Many of these animals use this stretch of forest as a natural corridor to travel safely between wetlands and open fields.

Now, a proposed development threatens to clear much of this land, cutting through this habitat and removing mature trees that protect against flooding and erosion.

We believe development should never come at the cost of our community’s natural heritage and safety.

We, the undersigned, call on:

The Village of Lake Zurich Board of Trustees

The Village of Hawthorn Woods Planning and Zoning Commission

The Lake County Board

to take immediate action to:

1. Pause or deny development until a full environmental and wildlife impact assessment is completed.
2. Partner with conservation organizations (Audubon Great Lakes, Openlands, Lake County Stormwater Management Commission, Citizens for Conservation) to explore preservation alternatives.
3. Protect this land as an open natural area — through purchase, easement, or park designation.
4. Preserve existing tree lines and wildlife corridors if any construction proceeds.

This forest is more than just trees — it’s a living ecosystem and part of what makes Tanglewood unique. Let’s stand together to protect our wildlife, wetlands, and community quality of life before it’s too late.

🖊️ Sign and share this petition to show our village officials that we care and that the community is watching.
Together, we can make sure the Tanglewood Forest Corridor remains green, healthy, and alive.