Strategic Communications and Storytelling for Ravine Restoration Project

Lake Michigan’s ravine-bluff ecosystems form steep, wooded corridors that create unique microclimates, support rare plant and animal species, and function as natural infrastructure—filtering stormwater and protecting water quality across an 88-square-mile watershed. Unfortunately, decades of urbanization, stormwater runoff, and shoreline modification have degraded these vital habitats.

The Jean and John Greene Nature Preserve, a 61-acre network of waterways, flyways and landscape within this watershed owned by Lake Forest Openlands Association, is undertaking a large-scale restoration. Funding from NOAA in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ COAST program uses nature‑based engineering to stabilize eroding slopes, revive native habitats, and rebuild natural processes that safeguard drinking water and strengthen fisheries.

Ensemble Media is thrilled to provide strategic communications and outreach support over the course of the project, including media training, PR, and storytelling through film, photography, and digital content creation. See our latest press placements below.

1/23/26 – WBEZ Feature by Juanpablo Ramirez Franco

1/27/26 – “A Window Into the Past: How Preservationists Hope to Restore Lake Michigan Shoreline” Daily Herald

2/11/26 – “Conservationists Aren’t Bluffing When it Comes to Safeguarding One of the North Shore’s Rarest and Most Fragile Coastal Landscapes” Patty Wetli, WTTW

3/2/26 – Lake Forest Openlands Association NOAA Grant Chicago Tribune

3/14/26 – “Preservation Project Launches to Restore Rare Ravine Ecosystem” Great Lakes Echo