"With so much pervasively depressing environmental news, the uplifting success stories featured in this handbook are refreshingly optimistic and inspirational. The book should be required reading for any volunteers who want to become more effective, and for natural area stewards who want to augment their land management efforts with the help of a cadre of informed and motivated laypeople."
Natural Areas Journal
"Much of our knowledge on the effectiveness of habitat restoration practices comes from direct experiences like the ones presented in this book, and testaments such as this one deserve support."
Community Ecology
"At long last: insights into one of the most interesting and encouraging exercises in ecosystem restoration: Chicago Wilderness. A joy of a book."
Thomas E. Lovejoy, George Mason University
"For decades, grassroots volunteers have fanned out by the thousands across Chicago, devoting themselves to restoration of the region’s diverse ecosystems. They have made this global metropolis a model and inspiration for all who care about the fate of human and natural communities. In these pages we get a view from the inside, and the great gift of lessons learned."
Curt Meine, Conservation Biologist and Author