Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts

News Release

SPRINGFIELD, IL, July 31, 2007—The Sugar Grove Nature Center was recognized for their efforts to provide a place where people could experience and enjoy the beauties of our forest resources through environmental education Programs and passive recreational activities at the Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts (AISWCD) 59th Annual Meeting and Illinois Land and Water Resources Conference held at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center in Springfield, Illinois on July 31.    

The purpose of this AISWCD award is to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of forestry. The Nature Center was established by the Funks Grove Cemetery Association and Sugar Grove Foundation, which opened year round in October 2004. The site features interpretive exhibits and displays, a wildlife viewing area and classroom facilities.

The Sugar Gove Nature Center is located at the southern end of Funks Grove, a 1,100 acre natural area dedicated as a National Natural Landmark and is included in the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory. It is the largest remaining intact prairie grove in the state of Illinois. Recently approximately 500 acres of old growth forest was recognized as being in jeopardy of development. Successful Grant applications generated $2.5 million dollars to purchase the acreage which will be dedicated in October 2007 as a Land & Water Reserve by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, protecting it in perpetuity. Part of this land is an active reforestation project.

In addition to working towards land preservation, the Nature Center offers educational Programs to all ages. They host events for adults, children, boy and girl scouts and college students conducting research and lab exercises and many more.

The Sugar Grove Nature Center is a member of the Prairie State Conservation Coalition (Land Trust Alliance), the Nature Conservancy and the Environmental Education Association of Illinois.

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