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HR 886

CONGRATS-IDNR/KANKAKEE RIVER

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jackie Haas

The resolution honors IDNR for preserving the Kankakee River Nature Preserve, highlighting its ecological importance, biodiversity, education, and ongoing stewardship.

Resolution Adopted
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Bill Summary · HR 886

Overview

  • Type: House Resolution (HR0886)
  • Session/Jurisdiction: Illinois, 104th General Assembly
  • Purpose: Congratulate and recognize the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) on the 60th anniversary of the dedication of the Kankakee River Nature Preserve
  • Sponsor: Rep. Jackie Haas (co-sponsor)

Main purpose and intent

  • The resolution commemorates the 60-year anniversary of the dedication of the Kankakee River Nature Preserve (established 1966).
  • It acknowledges the broader mission of the Illinois Nature Preserves system and the Illinois Natural Areas Preservation Act, which created a framework for preserving natural areas as part of Illinois’ heritage.
  • The resolution highlights the Preserve’s role in conservation, education, public health and welfare, and environmental quality.

Key provisions and statements

  • Recognition of significance:
    • Notes that Illinois Nature Preserves serve scientific research, education, potential undiscovered uses, habitat for rare and vanishing species, historic and scenic value, and as living museums of native landscapes.
    • Emphasizes the Kankakee River Nature Preserve’s location in Kankakee County and its establishment in 1966 to protect diverse natural communities (upland forest, bottomland forest, sand hill areas representative of the Grand Prairie Natural Division).
  • Notable natural features:
    • Langham Island is highlighted as a globally significant feature—specifically noted as the only wild-growing location of Kankakee mallow.
    • Langham Island hosts more than 500 surveyed plant species, including rare species such as wild stonecrop, bulblet fern, and the federally endangered leafy prairie clover (discovered there in 1873 and again recently).
  • Habitat and biodiversity:
    • The Preserve provides critical habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species.
    • Specific species mentioned emphasize the area’s ecological importance and biodiversity value.
  • Education and public engagement:
    • Describes opportunities for nature observation, birdwatching, and environmental education for residents and visitors.
  • Partnerships and stewardship:
    • Recognizes support from local groups and organizations, notably the Friends of Langham Island, and broad regional conservation efforts.
    • Acknowledges collaboration with the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission and IDNR.
  • Legislative action:
    • The resolution expresses appreciation and support for IDNR’s ongoing conservation, education, and stewardship efforts.

Who/what would be affected

  • Government/agency: Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission are recognized for their role in managing and protecting the Kankakee River Nature Preserve.
  • Local stakeholders: Residents of Kankakee County and conservation partners (e.g., Friends of Langham Island) who participate in preservation, monitoring, and educational activities.
  • Public: Indirectly benefits from acknowledged conservation and educational initiatives associated with the preserve.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Type of action: Formal recognition through a concurrent (house) resolution.
  • Timeline: The resolution commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Preserve’s dedication, which dates back to 1966; the bill is filed in May 2026.
  • Action history: Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Jackie Haas; co-sponsored by Rep. Jackie Haas.

Summary

HR0886 is a commemorative resolution honoring the Illinois Department of Natural Resources on the 60th anniversary of the Kankakee River Nature Preserve. It outlines the Preserve’s ecological significance (notably Langham Island and its rare species), its role in education and public welfare, and the importance of ongoing stewardship and partnerships. While it does not enact new policy or funding, it formally recognizes and honors the IDNR, the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, and community organizations for their conservation efforts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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