Central Illinois nature preserves awarded state grants
SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources on Thursday announced nearly $1 million in grants to support stewardship programs on land protected by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.
Among the 14 recipients were two in Central Illinois: $84,855.01 to the ParkLands Foundation in McLean and Woodford counties, and $92,047.20 to the Friends of Sangamon Valley in Mason County.
The funds are part of the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant program, which provides funds for staff and equipment needed for land and water stewardship projects in areas protected within the INPC, according to a news release.
The ParkLands Foundation plans to use its funds to buy a truck, mower and supplies for prescribed burns and invasive species removal at Letcher Basin Land and Water Reserve, Ridgetop Hill Prairie Nature Preserve, Chinquapin Bluffs Land and Water Reserve, and Weston Cemetery Prairie Nature Preserve, the news release said.
The Friends of the Sangamon Valley plans to enlist services and buy a tractor for prescribed burns and invasive species removal at Walden West Land and Water Reserve.
Contact Robyn Skaggs at or 309-820-3244.
Regional Content Editor
