The Illinois River Basin, its Natural Resource
Values,
Conservation and Restoration
The Illinois River and its basin tributaries touch the lives
of millions of Illinois citizens daily. Its importance both
in terms of its economic value and its environmental significance
is immeasurable. The following sections describe some of the
many important River uses that are relied on by a large percent
of the state's citizenry and the problems faced by one of Illinois’ most
valued resources.
Little more than 150 years ago, the Illinois River basin
was the haven of one of the most diverse, abundant, and valuable
river systems found anywhere in the United States. The wealth
of natural resources within its basin; its fertile soils, timbered
lands, and flowing waters teeming with a myriad of waterfowl,
furbearers, fish and mussels, contributed immeasurably to the
early development and welfare of the state and nation. Since
that time the basin and its resources have been subjected to
a number of stresses and decimating factors which have severely
impacted both the living natural resources (fish, wildlife,
etc.) and the physical systems on which these resources depend
for their survival.
A discussion of the important decimating and/or stress factors
which have affected the basin's natural resources follows,
including the quality of the terrestrial and aquatic habitats
which are required for the long-term viability of resident
plants and animals. Recreational resources have been
impacted as natural resources and require action for future
generations to enjoy the outdoor opportunities provided by
the Illinois River basin.
For additional information select topics below (pdf files):
