U.S. National Wildlife Refuges protect our country’s natural heritage, offer countless recreation opportunities, provide habitat for plants and animals, and improve quality of life for millions of Americans. In addition to these important benefits, refuges are also important economic drivers. According to a new peer-reviewed report released by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, refuges support […]
Wildlife
Illinois Land Conversions Result in More Crop Acres
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released new data that show a net national loss of non-cropland (e.g., prairie, forest) due to conversion to cropland. In a one year period from 2011-2012, Illinois netted a 10,000 acre gain in cropland. This means we are losing habitat for recreation, wildlife, stormwater management, and open space. The reasons […]
Glass Shrimp found in Des Plaines River
In a rare find, freshwater shrimp officially known as Mississippi grass shrimp have been found in the Des Plaines River. Shrimp are an indicator of cleaner water systems, so it’s a good sign that the Des Plaines River’s aquatic habitats are improving. You can see from the photo below why they are also known as […]
Otters are making a big comeback in Illinois!
Today, thanks to diligent, long-term work to reduce pollution, protect wooded areas, and restore land along water bodies, the playful and very photogenic river otter is making a big comeback in Illinois! Watch this mother river otter as she pulls out onto bank to call for pups, Middle Fork of the Vermilion River (Wabash basin), […]
Wildlife Habitat in Illinois
Healthy land makes for healthier, cleaner water! Wetlands, forests, and prairies help control flooding, filter pollution, prevent sediment from being washed downstream, and provide critical habitat for our state’s wildlife. Prairie Rivers Network’s habitat specialist, Elliot Brinkman, works with private landowners, public land agencies, land trusts, and others to expand and connect the patchwork of […]
