Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced a new initiative to provide monthly updates on upcoming events and noteworthy items. This initiative will cover various activities and programs across the state, aiming to engage residents with nature and history.

Starting March 1, Illinois residents aged 16 and older can purchase fishing licenses for $15. Information on fees and discounts is available on the IDNR website. The same day marks the beginning of the ACUI Spring Championships at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, featuring various shooting events.

On March 1-2, Black History Hikes will take place at Lincoln's Tomb State Historic Site in Springfield, focusing on the local Black community's history. Participants are advised to bring water and walking shoes.

Bald Eagle Days at Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton is scheduled for March 7. Visitors will learn about bald eagles and their winter habits in the area. The same day, a hunter safety education course will be held at Rend Lake Marketplace in Mount Vernon.

Also on March 7, Dana-Thomas House in Springfield will host a Dungeons and Dragons Game Nite with refreshments provided by the Illinois State Museum and State Historic Sites.

The Illinois Conservation Foundation Outdoor Hall of Fame Gala will occur on March 13 at Abbington Banquets in Glen Ellyn. The event includes dinner, cocktails, and an auction starting at 5:30 p.m.

A behind-the-scenes tour of David Davis Mansion State Historic Site in Bloomington is planned for March 15, offering a glimpse into restricted areas of the mansion. That day also features a boating safety education course at Carlyle Lake West Access Marina.

On March 23, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site invites visitors to witness the Spring Equinox Sunrise at Woodhenge Reconstruction. The event begins at 6:30 a.m., providing insights into this pre-Columbian calendar's significance.

Spring turkey lottery sales begin statewide on March 11 for county-specific permits remaining after the lottery process. Details are available on the IDNR website.

The "Here, There" exhibit opens on March 15 at the Illinois State Museum in Springfield, showcasing modern artworks by Illinois artists until September 1. Admission is free.

An Exploring LaSalle County and Chicago's South Side Bus Trip is scheduled for March 19-20 by the Illinois State Museum, visiting historic sites including Starved Rock State Park.

From March 28-29, Siloam Springs State Park hosts Becoming an Outdoors Woman Trapping Camp to introduce women to outdoor activities like trapping. Registration is full for this event.

Finally, Cahokia Mounds offers an Archaeology Tour led by Ferrel Anderson on March 29. On March 30, Kim Sigafus McIver presents "Singing Bird and the Importance of Native American Women in Illinois History" at Black Hawk Historic Site.

For more information about these events or registration details, interested individuals are encouraged to visit respective websites or contact organizers directly.