New Endowment to Protect Illinois State Parks for Future Generations

Strategic Insights -

Governor JB Pritzker has issued a press release announcing the establishment of a new endowment to protect, preserve, and enhance Illinois state parks. In partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) is launching the Illinois State Parks Endowment, a long-term, independent funding source for critical park infrastructure, accessibility projects, conservation, and programming. The fund will be housed by ICF, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and will provide permanent, restricted funding to support Illinois state parks, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Illinois State Parks Endowment will provide long-term, independent funding for critical park infrastructure, accessibility projects, conservation, and programming.
  • The fund will be housed by the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and will provide permanent, restricted funding to support Illinois state parks.
  • Contributions to the endowment are permanently restricted and cannot be redirected or swept at any time.
  • The endowment aims to protect Illinois state parks from decreased funding, reduced staffing, and long-term uncertainty faced by national parks.
  • ICF is welcoming contributions of all sizes to support this effort and is actively inviting visionary supporters to join its Founders Circle.
  • Gifts from individuals, families, private businesses, and foundations will help grow this permanent fund and protect Illinois parks for generations to come.
  • Jenny Vaughn, ICF Executive Director, emphasized that "We want to protect our parks with action and investment. We believe parks are for the people, not for profit."
  • Natalie Finnie, IDNR Director, stated that "Access to nature is a right, not a privilege. Our parks are essential to the physical, emotional, and economic health of our communities."
  • The endowment will help protect Illinois state parks' commitments to access, equity, and long-term stewardship for generations to come.

Statistics:

  • Over 25 years, the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) has built public-private partnerships to protect and enhance natural resources, expand outdoor access, and support sustainable conservation programs across the state.
  • ICF has been the official 501(c)(3) nonprofit partner of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) since its inception.
  • The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has managed about 400 sites across Illinois, including state parks and historic sites.
  • IDNR's work encompasses management of state parks, wildlife, fisheries, and natural heritage; Lake Michigan water allocation and coastal management; conservation police; mine and minerals; oil and gas; issuance of licenses, permits, and numerous grants.
  • IDNR was established on July 1, 1925, as the Illinois Department of Conservation.

Sources:

  • Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF)
  • Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)
  • Press Release by Governor JB Pritzker
  • About the Illinois Conservation Foundation
  • About IDNR