Shawnee National Forest Conservation Act Introduced to Protect 13,000 Acres

Strategic Insights -

The Shawnee National Forest, a renowned natural area in Illinois, is on the verge of significant protection with the introduction of the Shawnee National Forest Conservation Act. The legislation, proposed by Illinois Senator Richard J. Durbin, aims to safeguard 13,000 acres of the forest's natural resources, including 12,700 acres of special management areas and 750 acres of wilderness. This move would build on the existing 30,000 acres of wilderness already protected within the forest.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Shawnee National Forest Conservation Act would create 12,700 additional acres of special management areas and 750 acres of wilderness in the Shawnee National Forest.
  • The proposed legislation would offer critical protections to the area, preserving it for future generations to enjoy.
  • The 12,700 acres of special management areas would be created from three areas: Camp Hutchins (2,953 acres), Ripple Hollow (3,445 acres), and Burke Branch (6,310 acres).
  • The 750 acres of wilderness would be located in Camp Hutchins.
  • The Shawnee National Forest consists of 289,000 acres, with boundaries expanded three times since the U.S. Forest Service originally purchased the land in 1933.
  • Approximately 10 percent of the forest, or about 30,000 acres, is currently protected as wilderness.

Statistics:

  • 13,000 acres would be protected through the Shawnee National Forest Conservation Act.
  • 12,700 acres of special management areas would be created.
  • 750 acres of wilderness would be designated in Camp Hutchins.
  • 30,000 acres of the Shawnee National Forest are currently protected as wilderness.
  • 289,000 acres comprise the Shawnee National Forest.
  • The forest's boundaries have been expanded three times since 1933.

Sources:

  • GlobeNewswire (Release)
  • Press Release by the Office of U.S. Senator Dick Durbin