Ecosystems in Illinois

Located on North Glenwood Avenue in Peoria, Illinois, the Turner School for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is a dynamic institution dedicated to equipping students with the skills needed to become the leading innovators of tomorrow. Through a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation or participation in the Entrepreneurial Scholar Program, students can expect to engage in a rich academic environment that fosters the necessary skill sets for entrepreneurial success. With opportunities such as entrepreneurial internships, mentoring connections, pitch competitions, and the student club Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization, the Turner School provides a supportive and collaborative atmosphere for students to explore their passion for entrepreneurship. Founded by Lydia Moss Bradley, one of the most successful female entrepreneurs in America, the institution emphasizes hands-on learning experiences that mirror real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

The SWIC Greenhouse is a state-of-the-art facility located in Belleville, Illinois, United States. As part of a university, it offers students the opportunity to study and research various plant species in a controlled environment. The greenhouse is equipped with cutting-edge technology and knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to providing a hands-on learning experience for students interested in horticulture, botany, and environmental science. Visitors can explore the diverse collection of plants, learn about sustainable gardening practices, and participate in educational workshops and events. The SWIC Greenhouse is a hub for innovation and discovery in the field of plant biology, making it an invaluable resource for both students and the community.

The Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory (CWRL) at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is a renowned institution dedicated to teaching, research, and service in the field of wildlife biology and conservation. Located at 1125 Lincoln Drive in Carbondale, Illinois, the CWRL offers graduate training and undergraduate teaching in zoology, biology, and other life sciences majors. CWRL faculty members are committed to conducting high quality research that addresses regional, state, and international needs and priorities in wildlife management and conservation. Graduates of the CWRL have gone on to have successful careers with state and federal agencies, private conservation organizations, and academic institutions.

The Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois is a leading research institution for freshwater and marine science. Located in a region with abundant lakes, streams, and rivers, the center offers a unique opportunity for studying fisheries, fish biology, and aquatic ecosystems. With a strong focus on marine biology and close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, the CFAAS provides a diverse and hands-on learning experience for students and researchers.

Swegle Creek Wild Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural habitat of wildlife in London Mills, Illinois. Located at 34879 North Shortness Road, this institution works tirelessly to educate the community on the importance of conservation and the impact of human activities on local ecosystems. Visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings and observe a variety of native wildlife species in their natural environment. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, Swegle Creek Wild Life is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts alike.

McEvers Excavating is a general contractor located at 888 U.S. 67 in White Hall, Illinois, United States. Specializing in dredging ponds and ditches, they have the expertise and equipment necessary to handle any task. With their skilled team and extensive reach, McEvers Excavating is the go-to choice for all excavation needs in the area.

Clarity Ponds, located at 188 Woodcrest Drive in Highland, Illinois, is a premier water feature company specializing in designing and building ponds, streams, waterfalls, and fountains in the St. Louis Metro Area. Our expert craftsmanship and expertise will transform your backyard into a peaceful sanctuary where you can escape the stresses of everyday life. Our custom-designed ecosystem ponds blend seamlessly into the natural environment, offering a serene and beautiful focal point for your outdoor space. Whether you're looking to add a fountain, waterfall, or koi pond, Clarity Ponds can bring your vision to life with artistic flair and precision.

ServiceMaster Commercial Cleaning by Stanford Services, located at 611 East State Street in Geneva, Illinois, offers customized cleaning plans for commercial properties in Stanford and surrounding areas. Our team provides various office cleaning solutions to ensure a clean and healthy environment for your customers and employees. We understand the importance of using safe and environmentally friendly cleaning products, which is why we strive to align with industry standards and current needs. Our exclusive cleaning solutions are eco-conscious, eliminating up to 99.9% of germs and bacteria without harming the ecosystem.

Better Earth Premium Compost is a store located at 1400 South Cameron Lane in Peoria, Illinois, United States. We specialize in providing high-quality compost products that are designed to enrich and improve the health of your soil. Our compost is made from organic materials and is carefully crafted to ensure optimal nutrition for your plants and gardens. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, our premium compost is the perfect choice for promoting healthy growth and sustainable gardening practices. Visit us today to discover the benefits of Better Earth Premium Compost for yourself.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Lockport, Illinois, Black Creek Canyon is a renowned institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the natural beauty and history of the surrounding area. Situated at 1 Main Street, this institution offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Black Creek Canyon, a hidden gem in the heart of the United States. With interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs, Black Creek Canyon is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. Come discover the wonders of Black Creek Canyon and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Illinois' natural and cultural heritage.

The Milan Conservancy is a renowned institution dedicated to the preservation and protection of the environment. Located at 3800 Flora Drive in Milan, Illinois, United States, this organization is committed to promoting sustainability and conservation practices to ensure a healthy and thriving ecosystem for future generations. Through research, education, and community outreach programs, The Milan Conservancy strives to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire individuals to take action towards a more sustainable future. Join us in our mission to protect and preserve the natural world for the benefit of all.

Integrated Aquatic Environments is a leading institution dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of aquatic ecosystems. Located at 1600 North Milwaukee Avenue in Lake Villa, Illinois, United States, we offer a range of services including aquatic habitat restoration, water quality testing, and ecosystem management. Our team of experts is committed to promoting sustainable practices and protecting the delicate balance of our water environments. Visit us today to learn more about how we can help you create a healthier aquatic environment for all.

Seward Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 190 South Spielman Road in Pecatonica, Illinois, United States. This tranquil preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors. With its lush forests, winding trails, and peaceful atmosphere, Seward Forest Preserve is the perfect place for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Seward Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve is a serene park located at 5750 Best Road in Pecatonica, Illinois. This beautiful preserve is home to a diverse range of wetland habitats, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the winding trails that meander through the preserve, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve offers a peaceful retreat for all who visit.

Pecatonica River Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 7260 Judd Road in Pecatonica, Illinois, United States. This serene natural area offers visitors a peaceful retreat where they can enjoy hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking along the picturesque Pecatonica River. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its scenic trails and tranquil surroundings, Pecatonica River Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Sugar River Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 10127 Forest Preserve Road in Durand, Illinois, United States. This serene and scenic destination offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With lush forests, meandering trails, and the tranquil Sugar River running through the preserve, it is the perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors, Sugar River Forest Preserve is the ideal place to connect with nature and rejuvenate your senses.

Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located on South Bend Road in Rockford, Illinois. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With scenic hiking trails, towering bluffs, and lush forests, Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled day, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the beauty of Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve and experience the magic of the Illinois wilderness.

The Green River State Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Illinois, United States. This area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Visitors can explore the lush greenery and serene surroundings while observing a diverse range of plant and animal species in their natural habitat. The Green River State Wildlife Management Area is a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary, located at 1881 Lewis Road in Amboy, Illinois, is a park that spans 395 acres of pristine natural habitat. Originally purchased by the Illinois Audubon Society from Augustana College in 2016, this sanctuary aims to expand critical wildlife habitat in Lee County. The $2.1 million purchase was made possible through a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, donations from long-time Society member Russell Gremel, and Illinois Audubon's land acquisition fund. Dedicated in early 2017 as the Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary, this park is now recognized as an Illinois Nature Preserve. The sanctuary provides a home for a variety of bird species and other wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and land stewards alike. Public access is available from a parking area off Lewis Road, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the beauty of this natural oasis. Come and experience the tranquility and biodiversity of Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary today.

Bartlett Woods is a serene park located in Mendota, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature and relax in a tranquil setting. With its lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas, Bartlett Woods is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply unwind in nature, Bartlett Woods has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this charming park in Mendota.

The Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 780 East Road in Hennepin, Illinois, United States. This beautiful refuge is a haven for waterfowl and other wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to observe and connect with nature in a serene and tranquil setting. With its lush wetlands, scenic hiking trails, and abundant birdwatching opportunities, the Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the beauty of Illinois' natural landscape.

Chief Shabbona County Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 8910 Tomahawk Trail in Shabbona, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature, relax in the serene surroundings, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Named after Chief Shabbona, a prominent Native American leader, this preserve is a tribute to the rich history and natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous outing, Chief Shabbona County Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Loud Thunder Forest Preserve is a stunning natural park located at 19408 Loud Thunder Road in Illinois City, Illinois, United States. This popular tourist attraction boasts acres of lush forests, scenic trails, and serene lakes, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, fishing, and wildlife watching in this peaceful and picturesque setting. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous outdoor experience, Loud Thunder Forest Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

Snakeden Hollow - State Fish & Wildlife Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 1936 Illinois Route 167 in Victoria, Illinois, United States. This natural sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse range of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and prairies, while also providing ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. With its tranquil surroundings and abundant wildlife, Snakeden Hollow is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

The Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge South Globe is a park and tourist attraction located in Lewistown, Illinois, United States. This refuge offers a wide range of recreational activities such as birding, wildlife watching, hunting, and fishing. The area has a rich natural history, supporting over 600 generations of civilization. Visitors can experience the ecological and cultural significance of the refuge while enjoying the diverse habitats including wetlands, lakes, forests, prairies, and savannas. The refuge is home to a variety of fish, wildlife, and plants that migrate through the different habitats throughout the year, providing ample opportunities for sightings. The goal of the refuge is to conserve, protect, and enhance the natural resources for the benefit of the American people.

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge, located in Lewistown, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction and park offering a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy birding, wildlife watching, hunting, and fishing in this beautiful natural setting. The refuge is home to a diverse range of fish, wildlife, and plants, with habitats including wetlands, lakes, forests, bluffs, and prairies. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, you are sure to see a variety of wildlife species. Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge is committed to conserving and protecting the natural resources of the area for the benefit of future generations. Please note that some linked websites may not be fully accessible and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Upper Grandview Drive Park, located at 3615 North Grandview Drive in Peoria, Illinois, is a picturesque park listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This 2.52 mile meandering pleasure driveway was constructed in 1903 and offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the Illinois River Valley. President Theodore Roosevelt once described it as the "world's most beautiful drive" during a visit to Peoria in 1910. The park is lined with historic and remarkable homes, making it a must-see destination for visitors. In the autumn, the park is especially beautiful with the changing colors of fall leaves. With 1.75 miles of paved sidewalk for hiking, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the scenic views. Additionally, the park occasionally undergoes a Prescribed Burn, a controlled application of fire to preserve rare and endangered habitats and ensure ecosystem health and resiliency. The Burn Crew are trained fire experts who follow national standards to ensure the safety of the crew and nearby residents. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Upper Grandview Drive Park.

Grand View Drive, located at 3210 North Grandview Drive in Peoria, Illinois, is a historic and picturesque park that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Constructed in 1903, this 2.52 mile meandering pleasure driveway offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the Illinois River Valley and the opportunity to admire the beautiful historic homes that line the drive. President Theodore Roosevelt once called it the “world’s most beautiful drive” during a visit to Peoria in 1910. In the autumn, the drive is especially captivating with the vibrant colors of the fall leaves. With 1.75 miles of paved sidewalk for hiking, Grand View Drive is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists alike. Visitors can also reserve shelters for events or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic route. The park occasionally undergoes a Prescribed Burn, a controlled application of fire to restore natural processes, ensure ecosystem health, and reduce wildfire risk. The Burn Crew, trained fire experts, follow strict safety standards to protect the crew, residents, and property nearby.

Detweiller Riverside, located at 8412 North Galena Road in Peoria, Illinois, is a sprawling 760-acre park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities for residents of the Peoria area. Whether you enjoy running, walking, soccer, volleyball, hiking, birding, or simply taking in the natural beauty, Detweiller Riverside has something for everyone. One of the highlights of the park is Detweiller Drive, which features a stunning collection of diverse oak trees. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant displays of blooming redbuds in the spring and the colorful fall foliage.

The Highland Water Treatment Plant is a local government office located at 3035 Highland Park Road in Highland, Illinois, United States. This facility is responsible for treating and purifying water to ensure the health and safety of the community. With state-of-the-art technology and a team of dedicated professionals, the Highland Water Treatment Plant works tirelessly to provide clean and safe drinking water to residents and businesses in the area. Their commitment to excellence and environmental stewardship makes them a vital resource for the community.