Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has expressed support for the Biden Administration's new initiative, the America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge. This national effort aims to conserve and restore vital freshwater systems across the United States for future generations.

The challenge sets an ambitious goal to protect, restore, and reconnect 8 million acres of wetlands and 100,000 miles of rivers and streams nationwide. IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie was among numerous state, Tribal, and local leaders who gathered at the White House for a Water Summit where this initiative was announced.

Finnie highlighted the importance of Illinois' water bodies: "Illinois' lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands are fundamental to the health, prosperity, and resilience of our communities and the wildlife that call Illinois home." She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts at various government levels to protect these waters from pollution and other threats.

Illinois is characterized by its rich water resources including Lake Michigan and large rivers. The state's concerns about freshwater threats were discussed during its 30 by 30 Task Force listening sessions in April 2022. The White House's Freshwater Challenge aligns with several state strategies such as Illinois' Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy and State Water Plan.

During a fireside chat on water conservation at the White House, Finnie joined other leaders like Vice Chair Frankie Myers of the Yurok Tribe and Commissioner Katie Dykes from Connecticut. They discussed strategies for conserving freshwater resources.

Illinois is actively engaged in initiatives outlined in the Freshwater Challenge. These include restoring stream connectivity through dam removal, addressing invasive species, protecting groundwater with improved monitoring, collaborating on Lake Michigan coastal resiliency, implementing strong floodplain management standards, and improving local community water systems.