Science & Nature
Stewardship Programs Get Boost From Nearly $1M in Illinois DNR Grants
Prescribed burn in Cook County. (Kelly Bougher / Forest Preserve District of Cook County)
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The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has announced nearly $1 million in grants to support stewardship activities in natural areas across the state, specifically on land protected by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.
Organizations in Cook, Lake and McHenry counties were among the grant recipients, with funds in many cases earmarked for the least glamorous aspect of conservation work: buying tools.
“Given the growing stewardship needs of natural areas throughout Illinois, this grant program funds projects that help land trusts expand staff and purchase equipment for these activities,” the department said in a statement.
One group applied for funds to buy a tractor to maintain fire breaks, others need to acquire gear to conduct controlled burns, and nearly all recipients are looking to expand their efforts to combat invasive species.
Local recipients included Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves and the Nature Conservancy for work in Cook County.
The Friends organization received nearly $50,000 to purchase tools and equipment for volunteers, as well as to hire a contractor for invasive species control. The Nature Conservancy will put its nearly $90,000 grant toward equipment for prescribed fire.
Other grantees in northeast Illinois:
— Lake Forest OpenLands received nearly $90,000 to use for invasive species control and prescribed fire.
— The Land Conservancy in McHenry County received more than $65,000 to help remove invasive species and manage woody species.
IDNR awarded grants to 15 organizations in total. The complete list is available online.
Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]
