How does the Severson Family feel about changing the name of the nature center to Wild Roots?

The Severson Family remains committed to ensuring that Fannie Severson’s vision for nature education continues. Knowing that the name of the land their family donated to the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County in 1975 will remain Severson Dells Forest Preserve, the family is excited to see nature education expand to a second location in the community. 

What will be the governing structure of Wild Roots Nature Center?

Wild Roots Nature Center will remain a 501(c)3 organization with a dedicated staff and volunteer board of directors. Our legal name will remain Severson Dells Education Foundation, which was established in 1978. Wild Roots Nature Center will also continue its partnership with the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County, leasing the Deer Lodge at Severson Dells and using it for nature education and an asset of the Severson Dells Forest Preserve. 

When will the new name, Wild Roots Nature Center and logo take effect?

The name Wild Roots Nature Center and the new logo will be officially launched on July 1, 2026. By making a public announcement in early April, we hope that the community will take the time to learn about our name change and to ask questions about our future plans. 

How did you come up with the name Prairie’s Edge?

Our board and staff looked for a name that would incorporate a feeling of joy and exploration while conveying information about the physical location. As the former Elliot Golf Course becomes a native prairie and oak savanna, it will offer green space for leisure and education activities on the edge of Cherry Valley, Rockford, and Winnebago County. The name Prairie’s Edge reflects the geographic location, how the clubhouse sits on the property and how the preserve sits on the edge of rapidly expanding urban development while offering an oasis of natural beauty.

What are your plans for the clubhouse at the former Elliot Golf Course which is being renamed Prairie’s Edge?

Knowing that the greenest building is the building that is already built, our board of directors is working on a renovation plan for the clubhouse. The plan will remodel the building to create education, event and office space. This renovation will support school field trips, camps, public programs and serve as a starting point for visitors coming to walk the trails. The renovated facility will also be available for private events such as parties, receptions, and business gatherings. This will allow us to generate additional revenue to support our education programs and habitat restoration.

What about programs at Severson Dells?

Our organization remains dedicated to providing the high quality nature education programs at Severson Dells Forest Preserve that the community has come to expect over the last 50 years. Our plan is to expand programming to meet the needs of both the east and west sides of Winnebago county and surrounding communities, ensuring a connection of people to place regardless of where they live.