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Current legislation could seriously change things

Friday, June 8, 2007 7:22 AM CDT

Hopefully, the "iSpace" (Illinois Special Places Acquisition, Conservation and Enhancement Program) currently winding its way through the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives will open the state's collective eyes to the need of protecting natural areas around the state.

When it comes to protecting natural areas, many people do need their eyes opened. Too many of us simply haven't learned to appreciate the subtle wonders Illinois has to offer.

As a youngster, I remember standing in the woods with my dad. Standing at the edge of the Kaskaskia River, my dad commented on the beauty of the landscape before us.

I simply didn't understand.

The Kaskaskia River is neither majestic nor fast. It hasn't carved canyons through limestone mountains.

White water? Hardly. The Kaskaskia's muddy current barely creates ripples over fallen trees. So, what is the big deal?

This is literally an example of being unable to see the forest for the trees. As a kid, I was unable to appreciate the unspoiled beauty of the region, the majesty of the oaks and hickories, the hidden power of the river and the richness of the life supported by the river and trees.

Fortunately, I've matured since then.

Unfortunately, for too many years the State of Illinois shared my youthful attitude. Illinois is ranked last among Midwestern states in state-owned protected lands. And, with the state's recent economic downturn, funding for land acquisition has decreased about 80 percent over the past few years.

The current legislation, co-sponsored by Reps. Mike Bost and Brandon Phelps, calls for $100 million in new funding. The funding would be designated for land acquisition, provide management grants and support the implementation of the Hunting Heritage Protection Act.

The legislation has also generated grass-roots support from a variety of constituency groups.

Groups as diverse as the Illinois Audubon Society, the League of Illinois Bicyclists, Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, The Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy, United Bowhunters of Illinois and White Tails Unlimited have given public support to the legislation.

It's encouraging to see conservation and hunting groups finally on the same page of an issue. It's always confounded me that the various groups haven't put aside the relatively minor differences to work for the greater good.

Whether you are a hunting, conservation or birding group, wildlife habitat is a common goal. Apparently, more and more Illinois residents are recognizing that fact.

"Illinois residents recognize the importance of open space and the need to support programs to preserve it," said Ted Flickinger, president and CEO of the Illinois Association of Park Districts in a statement released by the Partners for Parks and Wildlife. "In a recent survey of residents across the state, 82 percent believe the state needs to acquire more open spaces before it is lost to development. Actions must be taken before it is too late."

As someone who recently returned from Atlanta where natural areas are being turned into strip malls daily, there is only one thing I can add - Amen.

LES WINKELER is the outdoors writer for The Southern Illinoisan. Contact him at les.winkeler@thesouthern.com, or call 351-5088.