333.72 MUX \ Conservation C-o-n-g^r-e-s-s DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION ANALYSIS OF RECOMMENDATIONS DEPOSITORY JUL 2 8 1995 UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ATURBANA-CHAMPAIGN Brent Manning, Director John Comerio, Deputy Director Bruce Clay, Assistant Director ASSEMBLY OF DELEGATES October 2, 1994 NOTICE: Return or renew all Library Materialsl The Minimum Fee (or each Lost Book is $50.00. The person charging this material is responsible for its return to the library from which it was withdrawn on or before the Latest Date stamped below. Theft, mutilation, and underlining of books are reasons tor discipli- nary action and may result in dismissal from the University. To renew call Telephone Center, 333-8400 UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS LIBRARY AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN CONTENTS INTRODUCTION I RESOLUTIONS II OUTDOOR RECREATION COMMITTEE OR-1 1 OR-2 2 OR-3 3 OR-4 4 OR-5 5 LAND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE LM-1 6 LM-4 7 LM-5 8 LM-9 9 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT COMMITTEE PI-l 10 PI-3 H PI-4 12 PI-6 13 PI-8 14 TRAILS & GREENWAYS COMMITTEE TG-1 15 TG-2 16 TG-3 18 TG-6 19 Note: This report contains the Department of Conservation's analysis of each recom- mendation from Conservation Congress II, based upon agency review of the complete recommendation from the Congress committees and approved by the Assembly of Delegates. Those recommendations were presented to Conservation Director Brent Manning at the close of the Congress and were distributed to the public at that time. Copies of the complete recommendations can be obtained by calling 21 7/782-4963 or by writing to Conservation Congress, Illinois Department of Conservation, 524 S. Second St., Room 510, Springfield, IL 62701-1787. EDUCATION COMMITTEE ED-1 20 ED-2 2I ED-3 22 ED-4 23 FUNDING COMMITTEE F-I/2 24 F-5 25 F-7 26 F-8 27 APPENDIX Executive Committee 28 Statewide Delegates 29 Regional Delegates 30 Committee Staff 32 Facilitators 34 The Illinois Department of Conservation receives Federal financial assistance and there- fore must comply with the Fed- eral anti-discrimination laws. In compliance with the Illinois Human Rights Act, the Illinois Constitution, Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended, and the U.S. Constitution, the Illinois Department of Conservation does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, na- tional origin, age or disability. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility, please contact the Equal Em- ployment Opportunity Officer, Department of Conservation, 524 S. Second St., Springfield, IL. 62701-1787, 217/782-7616 (TDD 217/782-9175), or the Office of Human Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C. 20240. Department of Conservation information is available to the hearing impaired by calling DOC's Telecommunications Device for the Deaf: 217/782- 9175. The Illinois Boll Relay Number is 800/526-0844. Printed by the Authority of the State of Illinois Printed on Recycled Paper INTRODUCTION Conservation Congress is an unprecedented constituency outreach effort to bring together representatives ot all the interest groups that the Department of Conservation serves. The process provides an opportunity tor the constituents to recommend actions to address issues of critical importance to constituents. Caucuses are held in each of the Department's five administrative regions. Constituent group representatives identify and prioritize issues to be addressed bv the Congress. Potential solutions to those issues also are generated at the caucuses. Seventy delegates are elected to represent regional interests at the Congress, and 48 groups are invited bv Director Brent Manning to name a delegate to represent that group's interests at the Congress — for a total of 1 18 delegates. Issues are assigned to one of six work teams, composed of statewide and regional delegates and representatives of groups that participated in the regional caucuses. These teams refine and elaborate potential solutions generated at the caucuses. Work teams prioritize the rec- ommendations, which are then assigned to one of six committees at Conservation Congress. Conservation Congress convenes in Springfield. The weekend is modeled on the legislative process, giving constituents an opportunity to be directly involved in governmental decision-making. Delegates are assigned to committees where they review work team recommen- dations — accepting, rejecting or amending those recommendations and prioritizing final recommendations, which are voted on during the Assembly of Delegates on Sunday. On the final day of the Congress, delegates assemble in the House ot Representatives chamber to vote on committee recommendations. The final recommendation package is presented to the Director for review and implementation when possible. The first Conservation Congress convened Feb. 5, 1993. Thirtv- nine recommendations were passed during the Assembly of Delegates. Many of those recommendations have been implemented, including holding a second Conservation Congress Sept. 30 - Oct. 2, 1994, where 26 recommendations were passed. This booklet contains the recommendation statements from the 26 recommendations from Conservation Congress II, along with the Department's responses. The voting record on each recommendation is shown. Delegates are listed by last name only, but you can further identify the delegates in the Appendix. Only "Yes" votes are recorded, delegates either voted for a recommendation or did not vote. Many volunteer hours are involved in Conservation Congress, from both the staff and the constituents. That effort has resulted in a better understanding by all participants of the importance of planning for the future of our natural resources and the recreational opportunities associated with those resources. The Department of Conservation thanks all who participated. ^EiiBBBSBBH; guipjjj BBBEBBSS II RESOLUTIONS RESOLUTION I Appreciation WHEREAS, Director Brent Manning has taken a futuristic concept and developed it into a model for the entire United States, and WHEREAS, Claudia Emken has tirelessly brought together the many concepts and constituency groups with a contagious enthusiasm which spreads to all who meet her, and WHEREAS, the manv IDOC staff members have given of their own time not only during this week but for the last 1 8 montns, and WHEREAS, Executive Committee Chairman John Schmitt and his committee have given of their time and energies since the last Conservation Congress, The delegates of the 1994 Conservation Congress do hereby salute and applaud your dedication and overt efforts to promote harmony, constructive thoughts and actions of our many and varied constituency groups. The plants, animals and citizens of Illinois will reap the benefits not only today but in the future vears to come. RESOLUTION II Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie We, the delegates of Illinois' Conservation Congress II, composed of more than 400 constituency groups, representing the 11.5 million citizens of Illinois, and dedicated to natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation provision, applaud Congressman George Sangmeister and Governor Jim Edgar and join with them in support of establishing the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie on the site of the Joliet Annv Arsenal Plant in Illinois. WHEREAS, Illinois is currently ranked 48th among the 50 states in per capita public open space, and WHEREAS, creation of this national grassland would restore up to 19,000 acres of prairie and preserve habitat for 1 6 state endangered and threatened species, 1 7 species on the Illinois watch list, and five federal candidate species, and WHEREAS, loss of tallgrass prairie has been greater than the decline in acreage of any other major ecosystem in North America and the Joliet Arsenal presents a unique opportunity to restore now-rare native tallgrass prairie ecosystems and to preserve the region's biodiversity, and WHEREAS, a public-private partnership has been formed to oversee site cleanup and to explore innovative technologies for environmental remediation that could improve environmental cleanup efforts nationally, and WHEREAS, creation of the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is an unparalleled conservation opportunity for the nation and particularly for the more than eight million citizens that live within 50 miles of the proposed national prairie, BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that it is in the best interest of the citizens of the State of Illinois and the United States of America that Congress expeditiously authorize the conversion of the Joliet Army Arsenal Plant to the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. RESOLUTION III Conservation 2000 We, the delegates of Illinois' Conservation Congress II, composed of more than 400 constituency groups, representing the 1 1.5 million citizens of Illinois, and dedicated to natural resources conservation and outdoor recreation provision, applaud Governor Jim Edgar's Conservation 2000 initiative. WHEREAS, the Governor Edgar's Water Resources and Land Use Priorities Task Force, Conservation Congress I, and other studv reports and study groups have identified many of the problems addressed by the Conservation 2000 initiative as critical to the conservation of the state's natural resources, • BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that it is in the best interest of the citizens of the State of Illinois that Governor Edgar and the General Assembly pass, the broad based conservation initiative. Conservation 2000. OUTDOOR RECREATION COMMII^EEE INCREASE HUNTING, FISHING AND TRAPPING AREAS (OR-1) Recommendation: In order to increase hunting, fishing and trapping on existing properties and provide :iddi- tional areas for hunting, fishing and trapping, we recom- mend the following: 1 . Expand IDOC's educational efforts to better inform the general public, and Illinois' school children in particular, about the principles of conservation and wildlife management, placing special emphasis upon the importance of responsibly regulated hunting, fishing and trapping. Accomplish this through the development of a "Conserva- tion Syllabus" available to all school children in Illinois, and through an expansion of youth hunting and fishing seminars, clinics and classes at IDOC sites using volunteer instructors where possible. To further support IDOC's efforts toward teaching the youth of Illinois proper hunting ethics, non-hunting youth at least 10 years of age should be permitted to accompany their parent(s) or guardian on hunts at IDOC-controlled sites. 2. Initiate cooperative efforts between IDOC and federal, state, countv and local entities to survey existing publicly-owned properties to identify areas for expanded hunting, fishing and trapping oppor- tunities as part of a responsible wildlife management plan. 3. Restore the IDOC Heavy Equipment Crew (HEC) to pre-1992 operational levels and expand as needed to ensure that fish and wildlife habitat restoration and recreation projects are completed efficiently and cost -effect ivelv. IDOC RESPONSE: 1 . The newest education lot, "Resource Conservation," focuses on resource management and potential use of Illinois' renewable natural resources, including hunting, fishing and trapping. Discussions on the "Conservation Syllabus" have occurred with the Outdoor Recreation Committee chair to further clarify the intent of this part of the recom mendat ion. Currently, non-hunting vouth are allowed to accompany their parents or guardians on most IDOC managed sites. Provisions will be made for non-hunting vouth under 16 to accompany a supervising adult on duck, goose, deer and turkev permit areas. At intensively hunted IDOC dove permit sites, voung hunters can be afield as part of the hunter quota. A pilot program will be considered which will cut back the quota at controlled pheasant hunting areas, one or two davs during the season, and allow non-hunting youth to accompany a supervising adult. The Department will continue its special youth hunts for doves, pheasants, upland game, geese and ducks and will encourage youth to participate in these hunts. 2. The Division of Land Acquisition recently completed an inven- tory of state-owned sites. A pilot project on habitat enhancement and wildlife refuge is under consideration on Department of Corrections property in Vandalia. While hunting, fishing or trapping on Correc- tions' property is not permitted, opportunities will be expanded in the area through improved habitat. Additional opportunities will be pursued with the Departments of Corrections and Agriculture. 3. Restoration and expansion of the Heavy Equipment Program is a high priority of the agencv. Investment strategies have been shared with constituency leaders and have been endorsed. OR-1 VOTING Delegates in favor (94): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Caveny, Coates, Crawford, Desulis, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erick- son, Eyre, Funk, Gabriel, Gale, darner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymen- stull, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Montgomery, R. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Schmitt, Schreiber, Slump, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith- son, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (23): Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Deneen, Dickev, Dougherty, Falco. Marquardt, Martin, Mills, Mittage, A. Morris, Penberthy, Roth, Schwartz, Siegner, Silberhorn, Smith, L. Stewart, Stumpf, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. OUI©OOR mEGREMlON^OTMMIIiiE^ OR-2 VOTING Delegates in favor (90): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bunt, Byrns, Caf- fee, Campbell, Caveny, Craw- ford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Eyre, Funk, Gale, Garner, Craeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Kozickv, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lvmenstull, McAllister, McFarlane, Montgomery, R. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Romano, Roth, Schmitt, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smith- son, Spada, Spale, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (27): Baker, Bullard, Carey, Coates, Dougherty, Falco, Gabriel, Hartman, Johnson, Mar- quardt, Martin, Mickelson, Mills, Mittage, A. Morris, Penberthy, Rolfe, Schreiber, Schwartz, Siegner, Shimp, Spaniol, L. Stewart, Turner, Veugeler, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch. RESTORE AND EXPAND THE CONTROLLED PHEASANT HUNTING PROGRAM (OR-2) Recommendation: Restore and expand the controlled pheasant hunting program on the 16 state sites to the pre-1990 levels. Raise the daily fee to reflect production costs, but not to exceed $20 by 1996 or $25 by the year 2000. IDOC RESPONSE: Results from the privatization program will be evaluated before a final decision on the controlled pheasant hunting program will be made. m ■ ft?, it # ; / •■ - OUTDOOR R^ REVISE THE DEER PERMIT AND PERMITS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES SYSTEMS (OR-3) Recommendation: Revise the deer permit and disabled hunting permit systems by: 1 . Providing over-the-counter deer archery permits at selected sites and making them a one-time combination purchase of one either-sex permit plus one antlerless onlv permit. 2. Requiring all bowhunters less than 16 years of age to have completed a bowhunting safety course similar to that in Iowa, as instructors and materials become available. 3. Expanding the number of sites in the Quality Deer Program and doing a detailed studv of the efficacy of this program. 4. Expanding crossbow hunting opportunities for persons with disabilities to other species such as small game and upland game. At the same time, assure that this privilege is not abused by listing the disability and expiration date of the condition on the permit. IDOC RESPONSE. 1 .A proposal for over-the-counter archerv deer permit sales is under consideration. The number and type of permits issued will be based on herd status, population objectives and hunter success rates. 2. The IDOC will continue to support and encourage bowhunter education on a volunteer basis. Due to budget constraints, it will not be mandatory at this time. 3. The Joliet Army Arsenal and Heidecke Lake will be added to the Quality Deer Program. It will take several years to see significant results of such a program at the local level. 4. Currently, crossbows can be used by individuals with permanent disabilities which prevent that person from using a bow and arrow to hunt deer; there is no expiration date. The Department recognizes that this issue continues to be a controversy among constituent groups, however it wall be further analyzed. OR-3 VOTING Delegates in favor (59): Armer, Barklev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bunt, Byrns, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Gale, Garner, Gross, Hagan, Hamberg, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Lymenstull, McAllister, McFarlane, Montgomery, R. Morris, Nix, Noe, Padovan, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Ro- gers, Romano, Silberhorn, Skellv, Smithson, Spada, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Walker, Walters, White, Young. Delegates not voting (58): Adelmann, Aitken, Baker, Bamberger, Bishop, Bullard, Caffee, Campbell, Crawford, Dougherty, Evre, Falco, Funic, Gabriel, Graeff, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hamblv, Hartman, Jessen, Konsis, Kozickv, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman. Ludwig, Marquardt, Martin, Mickel- son, Mills, Mittage, A. Mor- ris, Norman, Peach, Penber- thy, Pientka, Roehll, Rolfe, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Siegner, Shimp, Sliwa, Smith, Spale, L. Ste- wart, Struck, Stumpf, Turner, Veugeler, Weirich, Werthwein, Yacalavitch, Yanor. mifPaoi^ OR-4 VOTING Delegates in favor (98): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Coates, Deneen, Desulis, Dirksen, Eichelk- raut, Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Koziclcy, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mittage, Montgomery, R. Morris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Sparr, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (19): Carey, Caveny, Crawford, Dickey, Dougherty, Funk, Gabriel, Guthrie, Hartman, Martin, Mills, Penberthv, Siegner, Spaniol, J. Stewart, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. UNIFORM SYSTEM FOR RESERVING CAMP SITES (OR-4) Recommendation: The Illinois Department of Conserva- tion should develop a uniform system for reserving both individual and group camp sites at the facilities under its operation or the operation of its concessionaires. IDOC RESPONSE: A camping work group, composed of DOC staff, has been assigned to look at improving and expanding the current camping reservation system, changes to be implemented in early 1996. ^TDOOR^CREATION COMMITTEE REVIEW WATERFOWL HUNTING DATES AND ZONES (OR-5) Recommendation: Review waterfowl hunting dates and zones to maximize hunter opportunity. IDOC RESPONSE: The waterfowl regulations, including dates and bag limits, undergo a public review process, through the Federal Register, every year. 1 996 is the earliest that duck zone lines could be changed due to a five-year moratorium. Anv changes made would be in effect for another five vears before another change could be made. The public will have an opportunity to offer input, beginning with the waterfowl surveys that are taken this year. OR-5 VOTING Delegates in favor (75): Adelmann, Aitken, Armor, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bunt, Caffee, Carey, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dirksen, Eichelk- raut, Eriekson, Evre, Gale, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Hart- man, Hooser, Hunsaker, Ja- cobs, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozickv, Lamb, Lechner, Ludwig, Lymenstull, McAllister, Mickelson, R. Morris, Nix, Noe, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Reardanz, Roehll, Ro- fers, Romano, Schmitt, Sil- erhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smithson, Spada, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Trimble, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (42): Baker, Bullard, Byrns, Camp- bell, Caveny Coates, Dickey, Dougherty, Falco, Funk, Gabriel, Garner, Harnev, Jes- sen, Johnson, Kutska, Lehman, Marquardt, Martin, McFarlane, Mills, Mittage, Montgomery, A. Morris, Norman, Penberthv, Piatt, Potts, Rolfe, Roth, S'chreiber, Schwartz, Siegner, Shimp, Smith, Spale, L. Stewart, Tetzlaff, Turner, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. LAND ]V1A^LAX^MENTMAMa^ LM-5 VOTING Delegates in favor (100): Adelmann, Ait ken, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bullard, Bunt, Bvrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Craw- ford, Desulis, Dickey, Dirk- sen, Eichelkraut, Evre, Falco, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Romano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Wal- ters, Werthwein, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (17): Armer, Deneen, Dougherty, Erickson, Funk, Lechner, Martin, Mills, Noe, Penber- thy, Reardanz, Siegner, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, White, Yacalavitch. PRIVATE PRODUCTION AND USE OF NATIVE SEED, PLANT AND TREE MATERIALS (LM-5) Recommendation: Increase the use of native seeds, plants and trees on public projects. 1. The Department of Conservation shall contact other state agencies (Transportation, Agriculture, Mine Reclamation and Uni- versity of Illinois Extension Service) to develop uniform guidelines on the use of native plant materials on public projects within the state. This document should list those species, cultivars and varieties that are suitable for use in the various regions of die state. A committee shall be formed from representatives of the above units of state governments plus representatives from U.S. Department of Agricul- ture's Soil Conservation Service, non-governmental organizations such as The Nature Conservancy, Pheasants Forever, Quail Unlim- ited, The Illinois Nurserymen's Association and Illinois Landscape Contractor's Association or other knowledgeable individuals or groups. 2. Create a cooperative program for private and public landowners and the nursery industry to produce native seed, plant and tree material to supplement the recognized shortage of material for habitat restoration participants. This cooperative program is to include pro- viding technical assistance, education and information transfer and the establishment of a communication network for growers and users to exchange information. IDOC RESPONSE: Guidelines do exist for use of native plant materials on public projects. The Department has an agreement with the Illinois Depart- ment of Transportation to plant native species along roadways. When providing technical assistance to private property owners, planting native species is encouraged. Currently, the Department provides technical assistance to other nursery operators, when requested. A manual on growing and cleaning seeds is available upon request and tours can be arranged at each state nursery site. DVND A1ANAGEMENT COMMITTEE HABITAT AND OUTDOOR RECREATION ACQUISITION (LM-9) Recommendation: The State of Illinois shall protect and enhance biodiversity and provide more outdoor recrea- tional opportunities for its citizens. Legislation should be enacted to: 1. Establish habitat acquisition as a high priority for the Depart- ment of Conservation for the coming decades. 2. Direct the Department to acquire habitat with all deliberate speed. 3. Appropriate funds sufficient to acquire public habitat from willing sellers at an annual rate of about two-tenths of one percent of the land area of the state until sufficient lands are required to meet user need. These acquisitions are to be apportioned among a variety of recreation and conservation objectives according to the natural features and potentials of the land acquired, with ecological conser- vation as the primarv objective. IDOC RESPONSE: The Department continues to support this recommendation. Ad- ditional headcount for implementing this recommendation is in- cluded in Conservation 2000. LM-9 VOTING Delegates in favor (81 ): Adelmann, Aitken, Baker, Bamberger, Barklev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Brueckner, Bullard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Camp- bell, Carey, Coates, Craw- ford, Deneen, Dickey, Eichelkraut, Evre, Falco, Gabriel, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jor- stad, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kut- ska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Marquardt, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery A. Mor- ris, Nix, Norman, Peach, Piatt, Potts, Roehll, Romano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith- son, Spale, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Werthwein, White, Young. Delegates not voting (36): Armer, Bower, Buenting, Caveny, Desulis, Dirksen, Dougherty, Erickson, Funk, Gale, Hagan, Hartman, Keitzman, Kozickv, Lvmen- stull, Martin, McAllister, Mills, R. Morris, Noe, Padovan, Penberthy, Pientka, Reardanz, Rogers, Rolfe, Siegner, Smith, Spada, Spaniol, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Walters, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch, Yanor. 10 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT COMMITTEE PI-l VOTING Delegates in favor (108): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barklev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Funic, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly Harney, Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Midcelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Ste- wart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (9): Dougherty, Martin, Mills, Penberthy, Siegner, L. Ste- wart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch. VOLUNTEER NETWORK (PI-l) Recommendation: Create a statewide volunteer network. Identify existing and potential volunteer groups using the IDOC Conservation Congress data base. Existing IDOC volunteer programs should be expanded and promoted more effectively. Coordinate statewide network goa's with constituency groups. Volunteers, in partnership with IDOC, would manage the network at the local level based on policies created jointlv bv the volunteers and IDOC. Encourage and train staff to support and participate in the volun- teer network. Use volunteers to educate the public and promote natural resource issues and recreational opportunities. IDOC RESPONSE: Current volunteer opportunities at IDOC sites will be identified and a catalog will be developed for constituent use. Regional recog- nition programs will be developed. A pilot recognition dav will beheld in April 1995. A directory of volunteers will be published and made available. PUBLie IN V0LVEMENT€O 11 PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS (PI-3) Recommendation: Most of the state's natural resources and wildlife habitat are on privately owned urban and rural land. Public access is often limited due to liability risk and lack of public use management. 1. Persuade legislators to further consolidate, clarify and expand liability protection to private and public parties entering into agree- ments or leases with the Illinois Department of Conservation (IUOC) for the use of their land and water resources for recreation or conservation purposes. 2. IDOC should develop land use agreements and/or leases for use with private landowners that outline duties, responsibilities, legal obligations of State of Illinois, IDOC and land owner when used for public access. 3. Inform private and public landowners of goals, potential uses and agreement obligations in the use of private lands for recreation or conservation uses. 4. Public users of contracted private lands for recreation or conser- vation purposes must be educated as to access responsibilities with possible users permits or fees. IDOC RESPONSE: The Department is currently exploring the opportunity for land use agreements with private landowners through a pilot program, the Outdoor Illinois Access Program. The Department and the Two Rivers Resource Conservation &. Development district are putting private landowners and outdoor recreation enthusiasts in contact with one another for the purpose of increasing outdoor recreation opportunities, including hunting, fishing, bird watching, and all other forms of recreation. PI-3 VOTING Delegates in favor (99): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barklev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Deneen, De- sulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Funk, Gabriel, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hambly Hartman, Hooser, Jacobs, lessen, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Kozickv, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mittage, Montgomery, R. Morris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Silber- horn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Wal- ters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (18): Caffee, Coates, Crawford, Dougherty, Gale, Hamberg, Harney, Hunsaker, Johnson, Martin, Mills, Penberthv, Siegner, Shimp, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch. 12 public mvommm^ PI-4 VOTING Delegates in favor (93): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bisliop, Black, Brueckner, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Camp- bell, Carev, Cavenv, Deneen, Desulis, Dickev, Eichelkraut, Evre, Falco, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, ICutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lvmen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, Mickelson, Mittage, Montgomery, R. Morris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Young. Delegates not voting (24): Bower, Buenting, Bullard, Coates, Crawford, Dirksen, Dougherty, Erickson, Funk, Gabriel, Gale, Hartman, Martin, McFarlane, Mills, Penberthy, Siegner, Sliwa, J. Stewart, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch, Yanor. STATE NATURAL RESOURCE POLICY (PI-4) Recommendation: The IDOC shall initiate legislation which would establish a state natural resource policy designed to sustain and enhance the state's natural re- sources. This policy would apply to all units of state government. IDOC RESPONSE: A draft policy is expected to be presented to the Natural Resources Coordinating Council in January. Director Manning will ask for further action bv the Council. 13 PUBOeiNVOLVEMENX COMMITT EXPAND INTERN PROGRAM (PI-6) Recommendation: The Department of Conservation should work with the state university system to expand the intern program for recent graduates to accelerate the delivery of conservation practices on private land. Also, routine administrative tasks at the field level should be streamlined or eliminated to free biologists and foresters to work with more farmers, farm managers and follow-up on practices under way. IDOC RESPONSE: The Department places a large number of interns every year. The training provided to the students during these internships prepares them for a career in the natural resources field. This is an ongoing program and will continue to be expanded as opportunities arise. PI-6 VOTING Delegates in favor (96): Adclmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, BarkJev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Crawford, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Falco, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harnev, Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Kozickv, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lvmen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix', Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Romano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Silberhorn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Trimble, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (2 1 ): Deneen, Doughertv, Evre, Funic, Gabriel, Jacobs, Rut- ska, Martin, Mills, Penber- thy, Potts, Siegner, Shimp, L. Stewart, Tetzlaff, Turner, Veugeler, Walker, Walters, Weirich, Yacalavitch. 14 PUBLIC^IN^^ PI-8 VOTING Delegates in favor (106): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barklev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bill- iard, Bunt, Bvrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Cavenv, Coates, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Evre, Falco, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harnev, Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Kozickv, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludvvig, Lymenstull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mittage, Montgomery, R. Morris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Ste- wart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (II): Crawford, Doughertv, Funk, Martin, Mills, Periberthv, Siegner, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOLL WAYS (PI-8) Recommendation: The IDOC Director should contact the appropriate legislators to initiate and support legislation to require the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (IS- THA) to prepare environmental impact statements. Require ISTFLA to adequately consider the growth-related and additional infrastructure impacts of its proposed projects, within the context of existing regional and local land use plans. Require ISTFLA plans to undergo a public review and comment process comparable to other state agency plans. Amend ISTHA's authorizing legislation and charter to require it to allow other modes of transportation, including bikeways and commuter train lines, within tollway rights- of-way. IDOC RESPONSE: Governor Edgar has said that the Tollway Authoritv will have to comply with environmental standards existing for IDOT projects. 15 TRMI^&GREENWAYS C^OMMITTE STATEWIDE GREENWAY AND TRAIL PLAN (TG-1) Recommendation: Establish a process to plan and coordi- nate statewide greenway and trail development involving the Department, other agencies, organizations and the public. Implement the process to prepare a comprehensive statewide greenway and trail plan for Illinois. The plan should be sensitive to biological diversity and other natural resources, local concerns, land- owner interests, regional geographic features and population density and to compatibility of users; and should serve as "the" plan for guiding acquisition, development and operation of these critical natural resource links and corridors. The current State Trails Plan, the Northeastern Illinois Regional Greenways Plan, the Strategic Plan tor the Illinois Department of Conservation and local master plans will serve as a strong start for the Illinois Greenways Plan. IDOC RESPONSE: The Department has created a greenways program. In cooperation with local units of government and greenways organizations, work- shops will be held around the state to stimulate local interest and action. Seed money will be provided for greenway planning in met- ropolitan areas. TG-1 VOTING Delegates in favor (99): Adelmann, Aitken, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Bower, Brueckner, Bullard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Camp- bell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Crawford, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erick- son, Eyre, Falco, Funk, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Haertel, Ha- gan, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jor- stad, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Koz- ickv, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Roehll, Ro- fers, Rolfe, Romano, Roth, chmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (18): Armer, Black, Buenting, Deneen, Dougherty. Guthrie, Hart man, Keitzman, Martin, Mills, Penberthv, Reardanz, Siegner, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Walters, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch. 16 TRAILS & GREENWAYS COMMITTEE TG-2 VOTING Delegates in favor (73): Adelmann, Baker, Bamber- ger, Barldev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Brueckner, Bullard, Bunt, Bvrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carev, Coates, Crawford, Dickey, Eichel kraut, Eyre, Falco, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Gross, Gruber, Haertel, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hooser, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Kielsmeier, Kutska, Lehman, Ludwig, Marquardt, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mittage, Montgomery, A. Morris, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Piatt, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Spada, Spale, Sparr, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Turner, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (44): Aitken, Armer, Bower, Buent- ing, Cavenv, Deneen, De- sulis, Dirksen, Dougherty, Erickson, Funk, Graeff, Guthrie, Hagan, Hartman, Hunsaker, Keitzman, Konsis, Kozicky, Lamb, Lechner, Lymenstull, Martin, McAllis- ter, Mills, R. Morris, Nix, Noe, Penberthy, Pientka, Potts, Reardanz, Romano, Siegner, Smithson, Spaniol, J. Stewart, L. Stewart, Trim- ble, Veugeler, Walker, Wal- ters, Weirich, Yacalavitdi. ADDITIONAL PROTECTION TO PRIORITY STREAM SEGMENTS (TG-2) Recommendation: Priority Stream Segments shall receive additional protection as follows: 1 . The Governor shall, bv Executive Order, direct all state agencies (IDOC, IEPA, IDOT) to provide additional protection to Priority Stream Segments (approximately six percent of total stream miles in the state) through focused attention in the existing permit review process. Projects affecting Priority Stream Segments would receive extraordinary review and would be considered to be in especiallv sensitive areas. Anv activity that would affect the water quality, or the physical, biological or hydrological stability of a declared Priority Stream Segment would require special permitting attention. The IDOC shall make known this list of Priority Stream Segments to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to emphasize the significance of these waterways and that special permitting attention is warranted for these streams. Emphasize that this is not intended to "write off other stream reaches, but the exceptional quality of Priority Stream Segments elevates them to special protection, over and above the normal consideration. The IDOC shall emphasize protection to the riparian corridors of Priority Stream Segments through its habitat acquisition priorities established in the Congress' related recommendations. Access to riparian corridors for recreation should be developed if the activities are compatible with the maintenance of the ecological integrity of the stream. 2. All rivers and streams in the state will be considered for Priority Stream Segment classification. Those classified as Priority Stream Segments shall meet one or more of the following criteria: * Free-flowing in a relatively undeveloped corridor with outstanding characteristics as listed in the National Park Service 1982 Nationwide Rivers Inventory and protected by the Presidential Directive of August 1979 against federal agency actions which might foreclose TRAILS M GFUSElsprAYS COMNHTTE protection imder the federal Wild and Scenic Rivers Act [ 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq]. •Outstanding examples of aquatic habitat identified in the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory or covered by the Illinois Natural Area Preservation Act. •Critical habitat for threatened or endangered species listed or proposed to be listed under the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Act or listed or proposed to be listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act. *In the highest biotic integrity class based on a statewide rating bv the Department of Conservation and Environmental Protection Agencv ot fish species diversity, presence of pollution intolerant fish species and low incident ol undesirable fish species. *Rivers and streams with scenic, recreational, ecological, historical or archaeological qualities of statewide significance permanently preserved as a state protected river designated by statute. 3. Prioritv Stream Segments and their corresponding riparian corridors should be incorporated into the IDOC strategic plan. Along with the designated segments, strategic planning for maintaining the long-term integrity of each segment should be incorporated. 4. Through legislative action, the IDOC will be the administrative agency responsible for the designation of Prioritv Stream Segments. IDOC RESPONSE: A State Protected Streams work group with representatives from Conservation, Division of Water Resources, EPA, Agriculture, Illinois Natural History Survey, Illinois State Water Survey, Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, Mines and Minerals and the Illinois Pollution Control Board has been organized to review the legal protections currently afforded streams through state and federal law. The objec- tive is to identify the major weaknesses where threats to the outstand- ing values of streams, particularly those listed as high prioritv streams, cannot be prevented under current law. The work group wifl evaluate the possibility of a joint permit system to collectively unify federal and state regulatory efforts as well as the need for legislation to provide additional legal protection. 17 18 TRAILS & GREEMWAYSPC^ TG-3 VOTING Delegates in favor (106): Adelniann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bill- iard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickev, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Funic, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, A. Mor- ris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Ste- wart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (11): Dougherty, Martin, Mills, R. Morris, Penberthy, Siegner, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, White, Yacalavitch. STATEWIDE PLAN FOR RESTORATION OF STREAM CORRIDORS (TG-3) Recommendation: Prepare a statewide strategic plan for the improvement of stream corridors and establish an educational outreach program. The improvement of water quality is the primary goal. Benefits include: flood management, cropland protection, wildlife habitat and greenways. The Department of Conservation, as the lead agency, would coordinate with the IEPA to designate those watersheds with poor water quality. The IDOC would work with IDOA and local soil and water conservation districts to help landowners establish and enhance riparian areas through education and effective conservation practices with incentives such as cost-sharing programs, management agreements and other innovative techniques. IDOC RESPONSE: This is included in Conservation 2000. 19 IMMLSM^ NO DISCHARGE ZONES IN ILLINOIS (TG-6) Recommendation: The Department of Conservation should use the provisions of the Clean Vessel Act of 1992 to provide boaters with adequate sewage disposal systems and ultimately have USEPA declare all water in Illinois as "no discharge zones." IDOC RESPONSE: A federal grant program administered by the Department wall be available in FY96 to implement this recommendation. The Depart- ment has contracted with the University of Illinois to complete a survey of coastal waters to determine needs for pumpout stations and to develop a plan to address those needs and set priorities. The survey results and plan are completed. With few exceptions (must own property or have a lease with at least five years remaining which does not have a termination at will clause), any operator of a boat access area in Illinois is eligible to apply for grant money to construct pumpout stations. Deadline to apply for the grant was Feb. 15, 1995, with approval scheduled for November or December 1995. No const mction or expenditure of money can occurpriorto final approval of the grant. After construction is complete, 75 percent of allowable costs will be reimbursed to the boat access area. TG-6 VOTING Delegates in favor (100): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Bullard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Craw- ford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut , Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Gabriel, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Konsis, Kozickv, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Marquardt, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Wal- ters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (17): Buenting, Dougherty, Funk, Gale, Fiartman, Kielsmeier, Lvmenstull, Martin, McAllis- ter, Mills, Penberthv, Siegner, Spada, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. 20 j^ueSMON^o^ ED-l VOTING Delegates in favor (107): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barldey, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Funic, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hart man, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymen- stull, Marquardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Ste- wart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (10): Dougherty, Jorstad, Martin, Mills, Penberthv, Siegner, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. DIVISION OF EDUCATION (ED-l) Recommendation: The Illinois Department of Conserva- tion should create a Division of Education to focus atten- tion on the importance of conservation education and to consolidate and better coordinate the educational efforts taking place within the Department. IDOC RESPONSE: A Division of Education will be created by the beginning of FY96 (Julv 1, 1995). All Education recommendations will be analyzed by the division staff and incorporated, when possible, into the objectives of the division. 21 EDUCATION COMMITTEE REGIONAL CONSERVATION SPECIALISTS (ED-2) Recommendation: IDOC should employ, one at a time as funds become available, at least six Conservation Educa- tion Specialists, one for each of the five regions and one for Cook County. The Education Specialists would serve as liaisons between the regional staff, volunteers, public and private education agencies and organizations and public interest groups. Positions would be added, one bv one, as funding becomes available to support the new staff and their operations. Anv surplus funds, after the initial six Conservation Education Specialists are hired, shall be used for the development of new materials. Additional outreach efforts and further staff will be added as warranted. A source of funding for this Conservation Education Program could be from a specific, dedicated percentage of IDOC's overall budget and/or from a specific, dedicated percentage of all dedicated funding for IDOC programs, existing and future. IDOC RESPONSE: Same as response to ED-1 . ED-2 VOTING Delegates in favor (102): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bul- lard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Cavenv, Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickev, Dirksen, Eichelkraut , Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Funk, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harney. Hartman, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Johnson, Jorstad, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Lamb, Lechner, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Mar- quardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix^ Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Rogers, Rolfe, Romano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Silberhorn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf,. Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (15): Dougherty, Jessen, Keitzman, Kutska, Lehman, Martin, Mills, Penberthv, Roehll, Siegner, Shimp, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. 22 ED-3 VOTING Delegates in favor (97): Adelmann, Aitken, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Bower, Buenting, Bullard, Bvrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Caveny, Coates, Deneen, Desulis, Dickev, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Evre, Falco, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harnev, Hart man, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jor- stad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Mar- quardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Silber- horn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, Struck, Stumpf, Trimble, Walker, Walters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (20): Black, Brueckner, Bunt, Crawford, Doughertv, Funic, Gabriel, Guthrie, Martin, Mills, Penberthv, Siegner, Shimp, J. Stewart, L. Stewart, Tetzlaff, Turner, Veugeler, Weirich, Yacalavitch. HIGHER PRIORITY ON INTERPRETIVE EDUCATION AT SPECIFIC SITES (ED-3) Recommendation: The Department of Conservation should place a higher priority on interpretive education at specific sites, as an integral part of the site manage- ment. The Department needs to survey the needs and desires of its local site base and incorporate the involvement of local educational insti- tutions, constituency groups and local area volunteers. Methods of implementation would depend on site-specific circumstances. IDOC RESPONSE: Same as response to ED-1 . 23 EDUCATION GOMMITTE AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC (ED-4) Recommendation: To increase the availability of informa- tion to the public, and educational groups in particular, the Department of Conservation should strengthen and publicize its developing central information clearing- house for conservation and environmental education. There is an abundance of good conservation education materials available. Because these materials have been produced bv a variety of sources, people needing this information, educators in particular, have difficulty learning about the material. The fewer directions interested persons have to look to gather conservation education materials the better thev can educate the public. The 1993 Conserva- tion Education Catalog is a good beginning, but many educators, as well as the general public, are not aware of its availability. Easier availabilitv of IDOC materials could be accomplished by further development of a clearinghouse. However, the IDOC should go bevond that bv also providing a directory of contact persons in other agencies, industries, environmental groups and in other states. This could take the form of a computer database accessible through public libraries, schools and the Internet System available to univer- sities. Many volunteers statewide have an abundance of information they are willing to share as speakers or teachers if thev were called upon. Unfortunately, teachers and group leaders needing these peo- ple's talents and knowledge do not know who they are. A Conserva- tion Information Hotline would make more conservation materials and speakers available to more people, much easier and quicker than currently possible. IDOC RESPONSE: Same as response to ED-1. ED-4 VOTING Delegates in favor (99): Adelmann, Armer, Baker, Bamberger, Barklev. Beck, Beezhofd, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bullard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Caveny, Coates, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erick- son, Eyre, Falco, Gale, Gar- ner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harnev, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, lessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Kon- sis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Marquardt, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Nor- man, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Ro- fers, Rolfe, Romano, Roth, chmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Walker, Wal- ters, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (18): Aitken, Becker, Carey, Craw- ford, Dougherty, Funk, Gabriel, Hartman, Martin, McAllister, Mills, Padovan, Penberthv, Siegner, L. Ste- wart, Veugeler, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch. 24 FUNraNG^CX>MMlTnEe F-l/2 VOTING Delegates in favor (98): Adelmann, Aitken, Baker, Bamberger, Barklev, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Blade, Brueckner, Buenting, Bullard, Bunt, Bvrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carev, Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Evre, Falco, Funic, Gabriel, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jor- stad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kutska, Lamb, Lech- ner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Marquardt, McFarlane, Midcelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, R. Mor- ris, A. Morris, Nix^ Noe, Nor- man, Padovan, Peach, Pien- tka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Ro- mano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silberhorn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting ( 1 9): Armer, Bower, Cavenv, Dougherty, Erickson, Hart- man, Kozickv, Martin, McAl- lister, Mills, Penberthy, Siegner, Spaniol, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Walker, Walters, Weirich, Yacalavitch. CONSERVE ILLINOIS PROGRAM (F-l/2) Recommendation: Increase the state sales tax by l/8th of 1 percent. Revenue generated from the sales tax increase of l/8th of 1 percent will be dedicated as follows: 1 . 50 percent of the proceeds will De dedicated to the Conserve Illinois Program Fund. Monies placed in this fund will be used to meet unaddressed critical needs for park and natural areas acquisition and development at both the state and local level; stewardship and conservation easements; and identification systems and restoration programs for vacant post-in- dustrial land. Proceeds mav be used to retire bonds issued for these programs. 2. 50 percent of the proceeds will be dedicated to a Conservation Trust Fund. Monies placed in the fund would be in addition to appropriations from dedicated revenue sources, but in lieu of general revenue funds annually provided to the Department. The intent of the trust fund would be threefold: to place the Department on a sound fiscal basis for the foreseeable future; to minimize the necessitv for the IDOC to submit numerous proposals for legislative action to generate addi- tional funding for existing and/or new programs; and to ensure there are adequate staff and funding to properlv manage the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of Illinois citizens, now and in the future. IDOC RESPONSE: The Conservation Congress II Funding Committee was charged with considering revenue sources that could be used to implement the other Congress recommendations. During the Congress, at the request of the Funding Committee, the Department estimated the cost to implement all recommendations passed bv the five non-fund- ing committees, based upon the information submitted with the recommendations and Department estimates. The estimate of S108 million in this report reflects onlv those recommendations that were passed by the Assembly of Delegates and includes one-time and recurring costs. The funding recommendations that were passed bv the Assemblv, estimated to generate a total of $158 million annuallv based upon information provided in the recommendations, are: an increase of l/8th of 1 percent in the state sales tax, which also was a Conservation Congress I funding recommendation (F-l/2); a watenvav fee that applies to commercial goods (S.lO/ton) and to passengers (Sl/head) at the loading or unloading dock for all Illinois river or lake terminals (F-5); a non-reevded paper tax (F-7); and a video tape rental tax (F-8). All funding recommendations have been transmitted to the Gov- ernor's Office. The Governor has indicated that the increase in the state sales tax (F-l/2) would not be endorsed at this time. 25 FUNDING COMMITTEE ILLINOIS WATERWAY FEE (F-5) Recommendation: Establish the Illinois Waterway Fee to be placed on commercial goods (10 cents per ton) and passengers ($ 1 per head) at the loading or unloading point at all docking tie-ups at lake or river terminals in the state. These funds to be targeted at efforts to bolster tourism and recreational opportunities through funding overall environmental protection and restoration initiatives. IDOC RESPONSE: Same as response to F-l/2. F-5 VOTING Delegates in favor (86): Adelmann, Aitken, Bamber- ger, Barldey, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bullard, Bunt, Byrns, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Dickev, Eichelkraut, Eyre, Falco, Gabriel, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Haertel, Hagan, Hamberg, Hambly, Harney, Hooser, Hunsaker, Jacobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jorstad, Keitzman, KJelsmeier, Kon- sis, Kutska, Lamb, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Mar- quardt, McAllister, McFarlane, Mickelson, Mit- tage, Montgomery, A. Mor- ris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skelly, Sliwa, Smith, Spada, Spale, Sparr, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Werthwein, White, Young. Delegates not voting (3 1 ): Armer, Baker, Caveny, De- sulis, Dirksen, Dougherty, Erickson, Funk, Gale, Garner, Guthrie, Hartman, Kozickv, Lechner, Martin, Mills, R. Morris, Penberthv, Romano, Roth, Siegner, Smithson, Spaniol, J. Stewart, L. Ste- wart, Veugeler, Walker, Wal- ters, Weirich, Yacalavitch, 26 FUNDtfLN^^ F-7 VOTING Delegates in favor (61): Adelmann, Baker, Barkley, Beck, Beezhold, Bishop, Bower, Bullard, Caffee, Campbell, Carey, Coates, Crawford, Dickey, Eichelk- raut, Evre, Falco, Gabriel, Gale, Hagan, Hamberg, Hamblv, Harnev, Hartman, Hooser, Jacobs, Johnson, Jor- stad, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kut- ska, Lehman, Ludwig, Mar- quardt, McFarlane, Mickel- son, Mittage, Montgomery, A. Morris, Norman, Padovan, Piatt, Roehll, Ro- gers, Rolfe, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Skellv, Sliwa, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Turner, Werthwein, White. Delegates not voting (56): Aitken, Armer, Bamberger, Becker, Black, Brueckner, Buenting, Bunt, Byrns, Caveny, Deneen, Desulis, Dirksen, Dougherty, Erick- son, Funic, Garner, Graeff, Gross, Gruber, Guthrie, Haertel, Hunsaker, Jessen, Keitzman, Kozickv, Lamb, Lechner, Lvmenstull, Martin, McAllister, Mills, R. Morris, Nix, Noe, Peach, Penberthy, Pientka, Potts, Reardanz, Ro- mano, Siegner, Silberhorn, Smith, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Ste- wart, L. Stewart, Trimble, Veugeler, Walker, Walters, Weirich, Yacalavitch, Yanor, Young. NON-RECYCLED PAPER TAX (F-7) Recommendation: The Division of Forest Resources will develop a proposal to create a recycling tax on all non-re- cycled cut sheet paper, business forms and converted paper sold in Illinois. This tax will be not less than 1 perc?nt of the retail sales value nor less than 1.5 per cent of the wholesale sales value of these products. An amount not less than 33 1/3 percent of the annual fiscal year appropriation for the Division of Forest Resources nor less than 25 percent of all monies generated bv this recvcling tax will be deposited into the Forestry Development Fund to support the Forestry Nursery Program. The remainder of the funds generated will be deposited into the Habitat Endowment Trust Fund. IDOC RESPONSE: From the debate in the Assembly of Delegates, the non-recvcled paper tax, which was estimated to generate S5 million per year, appeared to confuse a number of delegates. Therefore, 'the Depart- ment analyzed the recommendation and concluded: 1 . The use of recycled office paper and recycling technology is increasing without a tax on non-recycled paper; therefore, the tax would generate ever diminishing revenues. 2 . Collection of the tax would be difficult due to the lack of recycled paper manufacturers and distributors in Illinois and the lack of a clear and accepted definition of recycled paper. The Department does not endorse recommendation F-7. 27 FUNDING COMMITTEE i.:^ ^ : /..-; H ,;v/.u,.^j : : VIDEO/MOVIE TAX (F-8) Recommendation: Enact a new five percent state sales tax on video tape rentals and the sale of motion picture admission tickets. The receipts from these taxes would be designated solely for the development and implementation of conservation education pro- grams, both in-house and for primary and secondary school education programs. A tax of five percent is estimated to yield revenues of approximately S15 million to S16 million annually. If the natural heritage of the state is to be preserved, protected and enhanced for the benefit and enjoyment ofitscitizens.it is critical that conservation education be given a high priority and adequate funding. IDOC RESPONSE: Same as response to F-l/2. F-8 VOTING Delegates in favor (96): Adelmann, Aitken, Baker, Barkley, Beck, Becker, Beezhold, Bishop, Black, Bower, Brueckner, Buenting, Bullard, Bunt, Caffee, Camp- bell, Carey, Caveny Coates, Crawford, Deneen, Desulis, Dickey, Dirksen, Eichelkraut, Erickson, Eyre, Falco, Gale, Garner, Graeff, Gruber, Ha- gan, Hambly, Harney, Hart- man, Hooser, Hunsaker, Ja- cobs, Jessen, Johnson, Jor- stad, Keitzman, Kielsmeier, Konsis, Kozicky, Kutska, Lamb, Lechner, Lehman, Ludwig, Lymenstull, Mar- quardt, McFarlane, Mickel- son, Mittage, Montgomery, R. Morris, A. Morris, Nix, Noe, Norman, Padovan, Peach, Pientka, Piatt, Potts, Reardanz, Roehll, Rogers, Rolfe, Romano, Roth, Schmitt, Schreiber, Schwartz, Shimp, Silber- horn, Skellv, Sliwa, Smith, Smithson, Spada, Spale, Spaniol, Sparr, J. Stewart, Struck, Stumpf, Tetzlaff, Trimble, Turner, Werthwein, White, Yanor, Young. Delegates not voting (21): Armer, Bamberger, Bvrns, Dougherty, Funk, Gabriel, Gross, Guthrie, Haertel, Hamberg, Martin, McAllis- ter, Mills, Penberthv, Siegner, L. Stewart, Veugeler, Walker, Walters, Weirich, Yaca- lavitch. 28 C^N^RVATiON^dNO^SS II DEIJEGATES RESOLUTION I Appreciation WHEREAS, Director Brent Manning has taken a futuristic concept and devel- oped it into a model for the entire United States, and WHEREAS, Claudia Emken has tirelessly brought together the many concepts and constituency groups with a contagious enthusiasm which spreads to all who meet her, and WHEREAS, the many I DOC staff members have given of their own time not only during this week but for the last 18 months, and WHEREAS, Executive Committee Chairman John Schmitt and his committee have given of their time and energies since the last Con- servation Congress, The delegates of the 1 994 Conservation Congress do hereby salute and applaud your dedication and overt ef- forts to promote harmony, const ructive thoughts and ac- tions of our manv and varied constituency groups. The plants, animals and citizens of Illinois will reap the bene- fits not onlv todav but in the future vears to come. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS FUNDING COMMITTEE Representative George Thompson, McHenry Alternate Judv Beck, Glenview EDUCATION COMMITTEE Representative Mary Jo Trimble, Carterville Alternate Garv Rohe, Urbana OUTDOOR RECREATION COMMITTEE Representative Bruce Tetzlaff, Cobden Alternate Monica Young, Woodstock TRAILS & GREENWAYS COMMITTEE Representative John Werthwein, Springfield Alternate Joyce O'Keefe, Chicago RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Representative Clark Bullard, Urbana No Alternate PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT COMMITTEE Representative Tom Bunt, Carlinville No Alternate REGION I Representative Russ Crawford, East Peoria Alternate Warren Gale, Orion REGION II Representative John Schmitt, Chicago Alternate Donna Eyre-Polk, Chicago REGION III Representative Edward "Bud" Hooser, Mahomet Alternate Jim Smith, Homer REGION IV Representative Tom Desulis, Frederick No Alternate REGION V Representative Larry Bowman, Marion No Alternate DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION Claudia Emken, Springfield REGIONAL FACILITATORS REGION I Randv Nvboer REGION II Kurt Bobsin REGION III Chris Farris REGION IV Mike Cochran REGION V Ned Enrietto 29 ^NSERVATION CONGRESS II ©ELEGAXE& STATEWIDE CONGRESS DELEGATES American Fisheries Society - Illinois Chapter: Tom Skellv Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts: John Caveny Audubon Council of Illinois: Russell Johnson Better Fishing Association of Northern Illinois: Joe Noe Field Trial Clubs of Illinois, Inc.: E.L. Walters Great Lakes Sport Fishing Council: Sam Romano Illinois Arborist Association: Michael Dirksen Illinois Association of Conservation Districts: Paul Hagan Illinois Association of Hunting Preserves: Edward Kozicky Illinois Association of Park Districts: Judv Beck 111. Assoc. Resource Conservation &. Development Councils: Dr. Charles Guthrie Illinois Association of Snowmobile Clubs: Ron Hambly Illinois Audubon Societv: Marilvn Campbell Illinois Bass Federation: John Gross Illinois Bowhunters Societv: John Yacalavitch Illinois Chapter of The Wildlife Societv: Daniel Ludwig Illinois Council on Forestry Development: Garv Rolfe Illinois Ducks Unlimited: Bud Hooser Illinois Environmental Council: Garv Struck Illinois Environmental Education Association: Mary Kellv Lamb Illinois Good Sam R.V. Owner's Association, Inc.: Chuck Reardanz Illinois Muskies Alliance: John Weirich Illinois Native Plant Society: Ken Konsis Illinois Nurserymen's Association: Chris Lechner Illinois Park and Recreation Association: Rick Stumpf Illinois Society of American Foresters: Allan Mickelson Illinois State Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation: Frank Nix Illinois State Rifle Association: Kevin Walker llinois Farm Bureau: Nancv Erickson Illinois Trailriders: Kandice Haertel llinois Trappers Association: Lee Stewart Illinois Tree Farm System: Tom Desulis Illinois Waterfowlers Alliance: Claude Graef Illinois Wildlife Federation: Lvnn Padovan Izaak Walton League of America: Richard Eichelkraut Migratory Waterfowl Hunters, Inc.: Miles Brueckner Northern Illinois Anglers Association: J.R. Blade Northern Illinois Conservation Club: Arlene Pientka OpenLands Project: Gerald Adelmann Pheasants Forever, Inc.: Jeffrev Mills Quad City Conservation Alliance: Warren Gale Quail Unlimited: Walter "Max" White Rails-To-T rails Conservancy - Illinois Chapter: John Werthwein Salmon Unlimited: Cass Sliwa Save the Prairie Societv: Valerie Spale Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter: Jack Norman United States Power Squadrons. James Stewart Whitetails Unlimited, Inc.: Tom Bunt VOLUNTEER NETWORK Recommendation: Create a statewide volunteer network. Identify existing and poten- tial volunteer groups using the IDOC Conservation Congress data base. Existing IDOC volunteer programs should be expanded and pro- moted more effectively Coordinate statewide net- work goals with constituency groups. Volunteers, in part- nership with IDOC, would manage the network at the local level based on policies created jointly by the volun- teers and IDOC. Encourage and train staff to support and participate in the volunteer network. Use volunteers to educate the public and promote natural resource issues and recrea- tional opportunities. IDOC response: Current volunteer opportunities at IDOC sites will be identified and a catalog will be devel- oped for constituent use. Re- gional recognition programs will be developed. A pilot rec- ognition dav will be held in April l Qf >5! A directory of volunteers will be published and made available. 30 CONSERVATION € ▲ 1 1 1 1 irnnii 1 1 1 1 REGIONAL SPECIALISTS Recommendation: IDOC should employ, one at a time as funds become available, at least six Conservation Educa- tion Specialists, one for each of the five regions and one for Cook County. The Education Specialists would serve as liaisons be- tween the regional staff, vol- unteers, public and private education agencies and or- ganizations and public inter- est groups. Positions would be added, one by one, as funding be- comes available to support the new staff and their opera- tions. Any surplus funds, af- ter the initial six Conserva- tion Education Specialists are hired, shall be used for the development of new materi- als. Additional outreach ef- forts and further staff will be added as warranted. A source of funding for this Conservation Education Pro- gram could be from a specific, dedicated percentage of IDOC's overall budget and/or from a specific, dedicated percentage of all dedicated funding for IDOC programs, existing and future. REGIONAL DELEGATES REGION I Ellen Baker, Franldin Creek Preservation Area Committee, Frank- lin Grove + Ben Bishop, Central Illinois Bowhunters, Canton Debra Carey, Lee County Natural Area Guardians, Dixon Russ Crawford, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, East Peoria Jack Dougherty, Split Rock Rod and Gun Club, Ottawa Bill Jacobs, Natural Land Institute, Rockford Curtis Jorstad, LaSalle County Soil & Water Conservation Dis- trict, Seneca Moe Kielsmeier, Moe's Bait Shop, Oregon Pat Martin, Highland Chapter Pheasants Forever, Freeport Jim McFarlane, Whitetails Unlimited, Rockford Michael Piatt, Heartland Water Resources Council, Peoria Bill Siegner, Lake Carroll Fishing Club, Freeport *DeWayne Silberhorn, Blackhawk Field Archers, Rockford Dennis Sparr, Putnam County Conservation District, Hennepin REGION II Sandra Bamberger, Trail Riders of DuPage, Clarendon Hills Bill Barldey, Quad County Hawg Hunters, Muskies Inc., Yorkville Bill Byrns, The Alliance to Restore the Kankakee River, Bradley Fran Caffee, Sierra Club, Valley of the Fox Group, Aurora William Deneen, Southside Muskie Hawks, Blue Island Donna Eyre-Polk, Chicago Audubon Society, Chicago Vince Funic, Grundy County Pheasants Forever, Morris Rick Gabriel, The Nature Conservancy, Chicago Delia Hamberg, Lake Countv Audubon, Libertyville Sue Harney, Kane Countv Natural Area Volunteers, Sleepy Hollow Don Jessen, Addison Park District, Addison Ken Kutska, Wheaton Park District, Wheaton Ronald Lehman, I & M Canal Natural Heritage Corridor Commis- sion, Channahon Barbara Marquardt, Fox Valley Land Foundation, Elgin -(-Robert Montgomery, Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee Dick Peach, Walleyes Unlimited U.S A., Evanston Janice Roehll, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Glen El- lvn Charles Roth, Thorn Creek Audubon Society, Steger John Schmitt, The Nature of Illinois Foundation, Chicago Susie Schreiber, Lake-Cook Chapter of The Illinois Audubon Soci- ety, Winnetka Marvin Schwartz, Prairie Woods Audubon Society, Wheeling Dennis Spada, National German Pointing Dog Association, Monee + Robert Veugeler, McHenrv County Pheasants Forever, Crystal Lake Monica Young, Wildlife In Need Foundation, Woodstock Note: • Committee Chairs + Work Team Chairs 31 CCWSER\^ DELEGATES REGIONAL DELEGATES REGION III Alicia Admiraal, Grand Prairie Friends oi Illinois, Urbana Shirlev Armer, East Central Illinois Pointer & Setter Club, Cham- paign Marv Bower, Fox Ridge Foundation, Charleston Earl Buenting, Sangamon Vallev Ducks Unlimited, Gifford -l-Clark Bullard, Committee on the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River, Inc., Urbana David Coates, The Nature Conservancv, Decatur Jim Hunsaker, Illinois Taxidermist Association, Hidalgo Jane Kietzman, Champaign Countv Soil & Water Conservation District, Champaign Stan Potts, Central Illinois Whitetails Unlimited, Clinton *Jim Smithson, Illinois Power Company, Decatur Roland Spaniol, Coles Countv Soil & Water Conservation Dis- trict, Charleston REGION IV Greg Aitken, Southern Illinois Quail Hunters, Sparta Bob Becker, Illinois Federation of Outdoor Resources, Brighton + Don Dickev, Illinois Rivers Project, Jerseyville Charlene Falco, Volunteer Stewardship Network, Springfield James Garner, Wolf Run Bowhunters, Roodhouse Helen Gruber, The Nature Institute, Glen Carbon Allie Lymenstull, Mississippi Vallev Hunters &. Fishermans Associa- tion, Quincv William McAllister, Macoupin County Farm Bureau, Carlinville M.J. Rogers, Illinois Archerv Association, Carlinville Sam Smith, Great River Chapter - Illinois Audubon Society, Be- thalto Monica Yanor, Lincolnland Volunteer Safety Education Instruc- tors, Chatham REGION V Michael Beezhold, Sociey of Xi Sigma Pi, Omega Chapter, Car- terville -i-Miles Hartman, Pulaski-Alexander Soil &. Water Conservation District, Mounds Mike Mittage, Southern Illinois Wildlands Project, Carbondale Alan Morris, Regional Assn. Concerned Environmentalists, Makanda Rav Morris, Conservation Coalition, Golconda John Penberthv, The Nature Conservancv, Ullin Jodv Shimp, Illinois Native Plant Society, Carbondale + Bruce Tetzlaff, American Fisheries Society, Cobden *Marv Jo Trimble, Illinois Regional Brittanv Club, Inc., Carterville Jackie Turner, Shawnee Audubon Society, Creal Springs GREENWAY AND TRAIL PLAN Recommendation: Estab- lish a process to plan and co- ordinate statewide greenwav and trail development involv- ing the Department, other agencies, organizations and the public. Implement the process to prepare a comprehensive statewide greenwav and trail plan for Illinois. The plan should be sensitive to biologi- cal diversity and other natu- ral resources, local concerns, landowner interests, regional geographic features and population density and to compatibilitv of users; and should serve as "die" plan for guiding acquisition, develop- ment and operation of these critical natural resource links and corridors. The current State Trails Plan, the North- eastern Illinois Regional Greenwavs Plan, the Strate- gic Plan for the Illinois De- partment of Conservation and locaJ master plans will serve as a strong start for the Illinois Greenwavs Plan. Note: • Committee Chairs + Work Team Chairs 32 C^Ci^SS^OMMil^ OUTDOOR RECREATION COMMITTEE Chair: Mary Jo Trimble Illinois Regional Britannv Club, Inc. Coordinator: Mike Cochran Region IV Administrator, Division of Fisheries Assistants: Rick Messenger Regional Land Manager, Region IV Larry Kennedy Supervisor, Regional Operation Staff Staff Advisors: Jeff VerSteeg Division Chief, Wildlife Resources John Tranquilli Director, Office of Resource Management Mike Conlin Division Chief, Fisheries Pages: Randall Collins, Linda Ausmus, Lvle Wacaser LAND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Chair: John Cavenv Association of 111. Soil & Water Conservation Districts Coordinator: Randy Nvboer Region I Administrator, Division of Natural Heritage Assistants: Don McFall Natural Areas Program Manager Glen Lvons Site Superintendent, Fox Ridge State Park Staff Advisors: Jerry Beverlin Director, Office of Land Management Carl Becker Division Chief, Natural Heritage Stu Pequignot Division Chief, Forest Resources Mike McCully Administrative Chief, Office of Land Management Tom Flattery Manager, Division of Land Acquisition Pages: Bill Donels, Bob Schanzle, Jean Karnes EDUCATION COMMITTEE Chair: Jim Smithson Illinois Power Companv Coordinator: Bob Cottingham Region III Administrator, Division of Wildlife Resources Assistants: Dave Cassens Volunteer Services Coordinator, Region II Law Enforcement Phil Wilson Education Specialist, Office of Resource Marketing & Education Staff Advisors: Kathv Andrews Chief, Conservation Education Jim Fulgenzi Director, Office of Resource Marketing & Education Tom Flarner Deputv Chief, Office of Law Enforcement Pages: Mitch Ingold, Kellv Coleman, Lynette Mick 33 CONGRESS COMMITTEE STAFF PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT COMMITTEE Chair: DeWavnc Silbcrhorn Blackhawk Field Archers Coordinator: Kiirt Bobsin Region II & III Administrator, Division of Forest Resources Assistants: Anne Mueller Assistant, Office of Public Affairs Maria Gursh Wetlands Program, Office of Planning & Development Staff Advisors: Diane Hendren Legislative Liaison Jav Johnson Reevcling/Internships, Office of the Director Hurlev Harris EEO Officer, Office of the Director Meg Bushnell Northern Illinois Coordinator Dick Lutz Manager, Division of Impact Analvsis Pages: Doug Austen, Greg Akers, Noel Laurent TRAILS & GREENWAYS COMMITTEE Chair: John Werthwein Rails-To-Trails Conservancy Coordinator: Ned Enrietto Landscape Architect, Region V Assistants: Jim Mick Impoundments Program Administrator, Division of Fisheries Mark Yergler Program Development Supervisor, Division of Grant Administration Stan Advisors: Bruce Clark Director, Office of Planning & Development Bob Thornberrv Site Planning Supervisor, Office of Planning &. Development Ron Hallberg Manager, Division of Grant Administration Pages: George Bellovics, Stuart Mizuta, Nancy Domst FUNDING COMMITTEE Chair: Judv Beck Illinois Association of Park Districts Coordinator: Howard Brewer Captain, Region II Law Enforcement Assistants: Rose Ragland Accounting Supervisor, Office of Budget & Finance Mike Sweet Federal Aid Coordinator, Office of Resource Management Staff Advisors: Rov Miller Manager, Office of Budget &. Finance John Bandy Budget Section Manager, Office of Budget &. Finance Brad Hammond Chief Internal Auditor Pages: Mick Rosendahl, Cinda Mickelson, Ron Miller 34 CONSERVATION CONGRESS EAGIOI^TOBS PLANNING TEAM Claudia Emken, Constituency Liaison Randy Nyboer, Region I facilitator Kurt Bobsin, Region II facilitator Chris Farris, Region III facilitator Mike Cochran, Region IV facilitator Ned Enrietto, Region V facilitator Ed Hoffman, Office of Planning and Development Dick Westfall, Office of Planning and Development Jim Garner, Office of Resource Management AnnaMae Ruuttila, Deputy Director's Office ARRANGEMENTS COMMITTEE AnnaMae Ruuttila, Deputy Director's Office Dick Coontz, Public Events and Promotions Ron Allen, Public Events and Promotions Chervl Gwinn, Office of Resource Marketing and Education John Buehner, Office of Resource Marketing and Education Sharon Baur, Office of Resource Management Tammv Britz, Constituency Relations Program Larry Sturm, Office of Land Management Rich Milburn, Office of Administration Lou Matsko, Office of Administration Jill Willis, Office of Law Enforcement Dave Longo, Office of Resource Management PUBLICATIONS EDITOR John Allen, Northern Illinois Office I UNIVERSITY OF ILLI NOIS-URBANA 3 0112 023346999