Prairie State Wire

The Twin Points area at Walnut Point State Park in Coles County is set to remain closed until at least July 1. This closure is due to a boat ramp dredging project aimed at improving the park's facilities and ensuring long-term accessibility for visitors. The affected areas include the boat ramp, shelter, trail, and parking spaces.

Visitors are encouraged to use other available amenities within the park during this period, such as an alternative boat launch, various shelters, trails, and parking areas. For further updates on the project's progress, individuals can contact the park directly at 217-346-3336.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) marks its centennial year in 2025. Established on July 1, 1925, initially as the Illinois Department of Conservation, it unified oversight of fish and game management, forestry operations, public works projects, and lake conservation under one organization.

Today, IDNR manages approximately 400 sites across Illinois. These include state parks and historic locations; wildlife management; fisheries; forestry services; natural heritage preservation; Lake Michigan water allocation; coastal management efforts; conservation police duties; mining and mineral regulation; oil and gas oversight; licensing and permit issuance; grant distribution; the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta; and stewardship of the Illinois State Museum. More information can be found on their website at https://dnr.illinois.gov.