The Forest Preserves of Cook County are one of the oldest and largest forest preserve systems in the country.

“Returning to the Midwest and stepping into this role feels deeply meaningful,” Bianchi said. “My roots in Fort Dodge shaped my appreciation for both community and connection to the land. I grew up spending countless summer afternoons exploring Oleson and Snell-Crawford parks, working as a summer intern with Webster County Conservation at Kennedy Park, along with fishing and hunting at Brushy Creek.

“Those experiences instilled in me a lifelong passion to care for public land.”

Toni Preckwinkle nominated Bianchi, who was then elected during a Board of Commissioners meeting earlier this summer.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the next general superintendent at the Forest Preserves of Cook County,” Bianchi said. “This marks an exciting opportunity in my career dedicated to conserving forests, wildlife habitats and wetlands, while expanding access and welcoming more people to connect with their incredible public lands.

“I look forward to working with President Preckwinkle, the Board of Commissioners, staff, partners and all the people of Cook County to continue and expand the great work that is happening at the Preserves.”

Before taking on the new position, Bianchi was the district ranger for the White River National Forest’s Dillon Ranger District in Colorado. Located just an hour west of Denver, the 312,000-acre site includes nearly 500 miles of hiking, mountain biking and winter sports trails, two Congressionally designated wilderness areas, two major reservoirs, 14 campgrounds and four world-class ski resorts in Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin.

Bianchi developed comprehensive plans that protected land and offered recreation opportunities while based out of Colorado. He was also a key member of the Forest Leadership Management Team that collaborated on plans, policies and objectives for the 2.3 million-acre White River National Forest.

“Over the last 15 years, the Forest Preserves has transformed an institution, becoming a leader in ecological restoration in a highly developed landscape, in connecting a diverse population to the wonders of nature, and in operations and transparency,” Preckwinkle said. “Adam’s experience, energy and perspective are an outstanding fit as general superintendent for the next chapter of the Preserves.”

Bianchi joined the USDA Forest Service back in 2008 and has also made stops in California and Michigan during his career. He is a graduate of Iowa State University, earning Rocky Mountain Region Forester’s Ranger District of the Year in 2023 and United States Forest Service Chief Honor Award in 2022.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County consists of more than 70,000 acres that include campgrounds, trails, boating centers, picnic groves, golf courses, aquatic centers and more. Hundreds of programs and events are offered each year at six nature centers and at preserves around the county, all of which Bianchi will now oversee.

“I look forward to building on the Forest Preserve District’s successes by expanding restoration efforts, enhancing education and recreation opportunities, and bringing communities closer to nature across Cook County,” Bianchi said. “It’s an exciting opportunity to return to the heartland and serve a region that deeply values its natural spaces.”