Hernandez Announces IDNR Grants to Illinois Nature Preserves

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, announced the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ (IDNR) recent release of grants to support 15 environmental stewardship programs.

“Preserving Illinois’ rivers, forests, parks and beaches is a responsibility we owe to future generations to maintain, and these grants are a big help in that effort,” Hernandez said. “It’s easy to take the beautiful natural world around us for granted, but with the creeping effects of climate change, we need to be more proactive protection than ever.”

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources awarded nearly $1 million in grants to 15 stewardship programs managed by land trusts protected by the Illinois Natural Preserves Commission (INPC). These grants are part of the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant program, which aims to increase the delivery of much-needed land and water stewardship work.

One recipient is the Conservation Foundation, which received more than $66,000 for environmental work in La Salle and Kane counties. This grant is specifically to help combat invasive species and install fire breaks.

“While bolstering clean energy industries such as electric vehicles and solar power generation grab the most headlines, land and water stewardship can’t be overlooked,” Hernandez said. “I’m grateful to organizations like the Conservation Foundation for their good work in our community.”