Reefestation research in Illinois

Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary, located in Oglesby, Illinois, United States, is a 45-acre island across from Starved Rock State Park in the Illinois River. This park and tourist attraction was acquired by the Society in March 2004 to protect it from residential and commercial development. Thanks to a generous grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, the three-year struggle to save the island was successful. Bald eagles use Plum Island as a wintering site, perching in the trees and flying over the river to feed at the nearby lock and dam. The Society's goal is to not only protect the island for the eagles but also to preserve the scenic view from atop Starved Rock and to safeguard the Native American archaeological sites on the island. Reforestation efforts are ongoing, and the island will be closed to visitors except for stewardship activities. Volunteers have donated many hours to help plant trees and maintain the sanctuary.