Habitat Restoration & Land Conservation

A Healthy Ecosystem Relies on Abundant Habitat

A healthy ecosystem includes diverse species all living in an interconnected system or life. Illinois is home to over 50,000 different species including 400 bird, 200 fish, and 60 mammal species. Forests along rivers in Illinois are home to more overwintering bald eagles than any other state outside of Alaska, and over 320 bird species use the Mississippi River corridor for spring and fall migrations.

Problem: Loss of Habitat

The lands and waters of Illinois face many challenges, including habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, climate change, and more. Prairie Rivers Network works to address some of these most pressing issues.

Solution: Working with Partners for Conservation Impact

Prairie Rivers Network works on improving the condition of land along rivers and streams that will result in cleaner water and healthier environments for people, fish, and wildlife. We partner with individuals, organizations, and agencies to promote land protection, habitat restoration, and resource stewardship. In addition to promoting on-the-ground impact, Prairie Rivers Network also champions local, state, and federal policies that support conservation work and healthy habitat throughout the state. Key actions that we are working on include:

• Establish and protect contiguous habitats that allow for the uninterrupted movement of plants and wildlife—north-south riparian corridors will be critical migration routes for climate adaptation
• Increase state and federal funding for land conservation
• Promote policies that enhance biodiversity on public and private lands
• Promote changes to tax and land use policies to foster or demand better behavior by private landowners