Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced a series of events and initiatives scheduled throughout the month of May. These activities cover a broad range of interests, from history and wildlife to conservation education.

On May 1, the Illinois State Museum will host Illinois History Day in Springfield, offering regional finalists a chance to progress to the national competition in Washington D.C. Additionally, the IDNR announced that applications for the Natural Areas Stewardship grant and the Illinois Endangered and Threatened Species Rehabilitation grant are open until June 14.

The Sahara Woods State Recreation Area in southern Illinois will open its off-highway vehicle trail on May 2 for the 2025 season. The site offers 30 miles of trails on reclaimed mine land, and riders can find more information and register online.

The following day, a hike will take place at Starved Rock State Park, allowing participants to explore trails, waterfalls, and wildflowers. Earth Stewardship Day on May 6 will welcome fourth-graders to the Illinois State Fairgrounds for conservation activities organized by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, IDNR, and the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

May 6 also marks the start of the lottery application period for the fall turkey firearm season, running through July 7. In Hartford on May 10-11, the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site will hold an event to commemorate the explorers' 1804 departure.

On May 12, the Illinois State Museum will host a program featuring a reenactor portraying Thomas Jefferson, discussing his role during the American Revolution and his views on Illinois. An electric outdoor equipment workshop will be held on May 14 at the Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area, offering a look at commercial and residential tools.

Grant applications for urban and community forestry open on May 15, aimed at helping local governments develop forests. Several events are scheduled for May 17, including presentations at Giant City State Park on landscaping with native plants and a family day at the David Davis Mansion in Bloomington. Art in Bloom: Watercolors will happen at the Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site in Springfield on the same day.

National Boater Safety Week begins on May 17, reinforcing the importance of safety for the upcoming boating season. The Illinois Caverns State Natural Area is now open, with its spectacular formations available for exploration with the required permit.

IDNR will also offer various safety education courses throughout May, including hunter field days and boater safety courses. Teacher education courses will be available in several locations, covering topics like birds and pollinators.

For further details, IDNR encourages individuals to check their online calendar and follow them on Facebook.