CONGRATS-WINNEBAGO COUNTY

104th Regular Session Introduced by Steve Stadelman

A ceremonial resolution honoring the 50th anniversary of Colored Sands Bluff Nature Preserve for its ecological significance, habitat diversity, and role in education and recreatio

Resolution Adopted

Summary of SR0784 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and intent

This Senate Resolution congratulates the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District on the 50th anniversary of Colored Sands Bluff Nature Preserve, marking its establishment and ongoing conservation efforts.

It acknowledges the importance of Illinois nature preserves, including their roles in scientific research, education, biodiversity protection, historic and scenic value, and public health and environmental quality.

Key provisions and changes

SR0784 is a commemorative resolution, not a bill proposing new laws or funding. Its primary actions are:

Recognizing Colored Sands Bluff Nature Preserve’s 50 years of protection and preservation.
Highlighting the preserve’s ecological features and significance (described below).
Commending the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District and partner organizations for stewardship and collaboration.
Directing that a copy of the resolution be presented to the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District as a symbol of respect and esteem.

What is being recognized (contextual details)

Colored Sands Bluff Nature Preserve, located in Winnebago County, was established in 1976 to protect:

Dry sand savanna, dry and dry-mesic sand prairie
Dolomite prairie
Bottomland forest
Sugar River bluffs

The preserve features a 40-foot glacial sand bluff overlooking the Sugar River, exposures of St. Peter Sandstone, and panoramic views of the Sugar River valley.

It provides habitat for a diverse array of species, including:

More than 150 bird species, with 124,000 to 6,000 individual birds banded annually at the Sand Bluff Bird Observatory (one of the largest public bird banding stations in the U.S.)
Blanding’s turtle (state-listed as threatened)
State-listed species of conservation concern such as Henslow’s sparrow
Species of concern like the western hognose snake, blue-spotted salamander
Rare prairie wildflowers (e.g., blue lupine, hoary puccoon, birdsfoot violet)

Recreational and educational opportunities highlighted include hiking, canoeing, wildlife observation, bird banding, and environmental education.

Who or what would be affected

The resolution primarily affects recognition and ceremonial acknowledgment:

Winnebago County Forest Preserve District (the primary local entity responsible for the preserve)
Partner organizations and conservation advocates acknowledged for their support
The general public, by highlighting a local natural resource and its value for education, research, and recreation

Procedural and timeline aspects

Action history:

Filed with Secretary: May 12, 2026
Referred to Assignments: May 12, 2026

As a Senate Resolution, it does not authorize new programs, funding, or regulatory changes; rather, it serves as formal recognition by the Illinois Senate.

Co-sponsor: Steve Stadelman

Bottom line

SR0784 is a ceremonial resolution commemorating the 50th anniversary of Colored Sands Bluff Nature Preserve, praising its ecological significance, habitat diversity, and role in education and recreation, and commending the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District and partners. It honors conservation history and encourages continued stewardship.