“Investing In The Nature Of Southwestern Illinois”
Commonfields www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
What’s Inside The Mounds................................2-3 Highlights....................................4-5 Board of Directors......................... 6 Upcoming events.......................... 7 Farmland Protection...................BC 2013 Annual Report....................BC Become a member.....................BC
Directors Robert J. Hilgenbrink, Chair IL Green Economy Network Frank O. Miles, Vice Chair Southwestern Illinois College Lester Harnetiaux, Secretary Bond County Realtors Ronda Latina, Treasurer Environmental Operations, Inc. William Boardman Firehouse Contracting, LLC Ronald J. Foster, Jr. Schoen, Walton, Telken & Foster Dennis (Denny) Kirkham (Land Owner) Charles Meier IL State Representative Robert Nelson Nelson & Nelson Ron O’Connor O’Connor & Partners Cliff Schuette Schuette Seed Company Justin Siegel Deli Star Corporation
A Quarterly Publication of HeartLands Conservancy
Spring 2014
Earth Day and Our Weather Future At HeartLands Conservancy’s Annual Dinner in March, James Kramper, a NOAA Warning Coordination Meteorologist, depicted how our climate has been changing, and what our weather might look like in Southwestern Illinois in the future if contributing factors were not addressed.
Make Earth Day Every Day of Your Life
Three scenarios were provided: SCENARIO ONE: We as a society immediately address the contributing factors associated with climate change. In this scenario, our climate future will likely be similar to that of Arkansas. SCENARIO TWO: We as a society start to address our contributing factors, but do so with less energy and commitment, and therefore prolong true action. In this scenario, our climate future will likely be similar to that of Louisiana. SCENARIO THREE: We as a society continue to delay action. In this scenario, our weather future will likely be similar to that of Houston, Texas.
April 22, 2014
Most scientists have already concluded that we’ve crossed the line and we have no option other than to adapt to a changing climate. The key questions between these three scenarios is WHEN we chose to truly address contributing factors; which will dictate how extensive our adaptations will need to be. As Earth Day approaches please consider how your actions may contribute to factors associated with climate change. While having a “Houston-like climate” may sound appealing after the winter that we’ve endured, the droughts, extended heat waves and intense rain events would not be so desirable long term. Make Earth Day every day of your life, and encourage family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and others to do the same. You are HeartLands Conservancy, and with your action we will ensure that we retain communities with healthy and sustainable air, land and water resources for current and future generations.
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Investing In The Nature Of Southwestern Illinois
Commonfields Spring 2014
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
The Mounds - America’s First Cities
Cahokia Mounds Current Designations •
Illinois purchased first 144 acres in 1925; became an Illinois State Park.
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U.S. National Historic Landmark: July 19, 1964 - 1 of 2,507 in U.S. - 1 of 85 in IL - 1 of 37 in MO
• U.S. National Register of Historic Places: October 15, 1966 - 1 of 1,700 in IL • Illinois State Historic Site 1975: - 1 of 56 in IL • UNESCO World Heritage Site 1982: - 1 of 981 globally - 1 of 21 in U.S. - 1 of 1 in Midwest
In all of North America, four archaeological complexes stand out as the greatest achievements in the ancient history of our continent – Poverty Point (Louisiana), Ohio Hopewell (Ohio), Chaco Canyon (New Mexico) and Cahokia Mounds. Currently, Cahokia Mounds, located near Collinsville and the only mounds that represent the Mississippian culture holistically and uniquely, is a State Historic Site run by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. It is also a National Historic Landmark and a United Nations World Heritage Site. Hidden gems in our own backyard, the mounds are a significant and unsurpassed example of its time period. The Mounds Team, led by representatives from HeartLands Conservancy, have spent the last 18 months studying the Mississippian culture and occupation. A feasibility study was produced with all findings and recommendations, which includes elevating the Mounds and associated Mound Centers to a National Designation within the National Park Service. Through engagement with the public-at-large communities, civic leaders, and the American Indian Tribes/Nations, the team determined that a National Designation is feasible and that Cahokia meets all NPS criteria. The other mounds sites where reviewed and it was concluded that they, too, are nationally significant if they are thematically connected to Cahokia – demonstrating the larger culture and advancements. They are stronger as a whole. They all can stand as a non-contiguous National Historical Park together. The hope is a National Designation will give influence to preserve what remains of the mounds in our region. But, next steps such as further collaboration, publicity and expanded outreach are vital to reaching our goal. You, too, can be part of The Mounds’ Team. Join us as we ensure that the Cahokia Mounds and surrounding mounds sites are protected. Your support is needed so that when the initiative is complete, the story of our ancient heartlands will continue to be shared as one of the most significant pieces of history the world has to offer.
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Commonfields Spring 2014
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
Efforts underway to enhance national designation of Cahokia Mounds - Join the movement today! Hidden in plain sight, today’s Cahokia Mounds are the remnants of North America’s greatest prehistoric culture, the Mound Cities. HeartLands Conservancy has been leading a comprehensive feasibility study, capturing the significance of these sites within our region.
The Time Is Now...
What’s Being Said “The Mounds represent a great culture, one alive today in the five civilized tribes, and not extinct. To destroy them even through neglect, is to lose a living resource of understanding our history. Our area was great in history before St. Louis was born and for the same reason – the confluence of the rivers, trade & culture. David Harjoe Mounds Project Supporter
...to make Cahokia Mounds a part of the National Park Service.
How to Help Writing to our senators about The Mounds – America’s First Cities is important to our success. Correspondence is a good way to make sure that the findings of the study are communicated with people of influence. You can contact your senators by writing an e-mail or a letter, by calling, or by visiting. Contact Dick Durbin (D-IL) at http://www.durbin.senate.gov/ and Mark Kirk (R-IL) http://www.kirk.senate.gov/
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org www.facebook.com/TheMounds Contact Project Team Members: Laura Lyon (lyonl1@yahoo.com) or Ed Weilbacher (ed.weilbacher@heartlandsconservancy.org)
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Sample letters available! Contact Project Team Members (Contact info to the left)
Commonfields Spring 2014
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
Highlights of Recent Events and Activities Members of The Mounds - America’s First Cities Project Team visited with the Midwest Region National Park Service Office in Omaha, Neb., in February to discuss the findings of the feasibility study. Pictured here, from left to right, is Ed Weilbacher, Special Projects; Bob Bryson, NPS; Mark Lynott, Consultant to Mounds Project; Laura Lyon, Special Projects; Michael Reynolds, Midwest Regional Director NPS; and David Eustis, President/CEO, HeartLands Conservancy, holding The Mounds-Americas First Cities’ Feasibility Study project map.
Eagle Trek, held Feb. 1, was another successful day of fun and bountiful birding. A steady flow of visitors took part in the day, despite weather challenges, and enjoyed many eagle festivities at the event. This year’s attendees enjoyed a program from the World Bird Sanctuary, toured the Lock & Dam, and viewed eagles soaring over the confluence of the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers. Families enjoyed lunch by the river and children were able to participate in bird activities and make bald eagle crafts. In the past, more than 400 people have flocked to the Kaskaskia Lock & Dam to view eagles.
HeartLands Conservancy was the key Illinois partner in a twoand-a-half year effort, led by the East West Gateway Council of Governments, to develop a regional plan for sustainability. The plan, OneSTL, was adopted in December 2013 and is a voluntary plan that local governments and communities can adopt.
Did you know that Southwestern Illinois has more miles of paved trails than then entire Chicago region? Biking along some of those miles is a great way to experience the beauty of Southwestern Illinois. Here, two young bikers are enjoying some of the trails and everyone will have the chance to participate again as the spring bike trek has been set for Saturday, May 3rd. See the events page for details.
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Commonfields Spring 2014
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
Highlights of Recent Events and Activities Sometimes the process for better walking neighborhoods start inside. At the March 2014 St. Clair Complete Streets Committee Meeting, nursing students from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville working with local seniors, presented their walking audits, focusing on neighborhoods around schools.
Darrell Brink (RIGHT) accepted the Conservation Leadership Award at this year’s Annual Dinner, held in March, from David Eustis, President and CEO of HeartLands Conservancy. Mr. Brink was honored for 18 years of dedication and leadership to the organization and communities it serves. Additionally, The City of Waterloo was awarded the Sea of Verdure Award.
Guests at the Annual Dinner enjoyed a timeline that displayed highlights from HeartLands Conservancy’s 25-year history.
James Kramper, NOAA Warning Coordination Meteorologist, was the guest speaker at this year’s Annual Dinner. He presented on climate change and its effects on our communities.
More than 100 people enjoyed an evening complete with unique, 25-year cupcakes to celebrate the silver anniversary of the organization.
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Commonfields Spring 2014
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
HeartLands Conservancy Introduces 2014 Board of Directors We are pleased to introduce new board members for HeartLands Conservancy. The Board of Directors at HeartLands Conservancy represent an impressive variety of backgrounds and professions, as well as the geographical reaches of the region we serve. Our Directors share a common passion for conservation as well as a desire for a more sustainable future for our communities. This passion inspires a broad diversity and exchange of ideas, relationship building within the areas that we work, and superior organizational governance. A special thanks to outgoing board members Craig Bressan, Darrell Brink, Terry Lammers, Jane Eckert and Robert Weck for their contributions to the mission and vision of HeartLands Conservancy.
Ronald J. Foster, Jr.
Schoen, Walton, Telken & Foster, ILLC Glen Carbon, IL
Justin Siegel
Robert C. Nelson
Frank O. Miles, Vice Chair SWIC Granite City, IL Lester Harnetiaux, Secretary Bond County Realtors Greenville, IL
Environmental Operations, Inc. St. Louis, MO
Landowner Greenville, IL
Deli Star Corporation Fayetteville, IL
Nelson & Nelson, Attorneys at Law Belleville, IL
2014 Board of Directors Robert J. Hilgenbrink, Chair IL Green Economy Network Shiloh, IL
Ronda Latina, Treasurer
Dennis (Denny) Kirkham
Ronda Latina, Treasurer Environmental Operations, Inc. St. Louis, MO
Dennis (Denny) Kirkham Landowner Greenville, IL
Ron O’Connor O’Connor & Partners Belleville, IL
William Boardman Firehouse Contracting, LLC Chicago, IL
Charles Meier IL State Representative, 108th District Okawville, IL
Cliff Schuette Schuette Seed Breese, IL
Ronald J. Foster Schoen Walton Telken & Foster Attorneys at Law Glen Carbon, IL
Robert C. Nelson Nelson & Nelson Attorneys at Law Mascoutah, IL
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Justin Siegel Deli Star Corporation Fayetteville, IL
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Commonfields Spring 2014
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
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Upcoming Events
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Treks
Green Infrastructure Breakfast The Menomonee Valley, Milwaukee
Bike Trek • Saturday, May 3, meet at 9 a.m.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014 DoubleTree by Hilton - Collinsville, IL 7:30 a.m. Networking and Breakfast - 8 a.m. Program We are excited to have Laura Bray, Executive Director of
Metro-East Parks & Recreation Department (MEPRD) office/trailhead, 104 United Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234
the Menomonee Valley Partners in Milwaukee be the key We are excited to have Laura Bray, note speaker for the 2014 Green Infrastructure Executive Director of the Menomonee Breakfast. The redevelopment of the 1,200 acre Menomonee Valley been a in national model be of the economic and ValleyhasPartners Milwaukee environmental sustainability. It has used green infrastructure keynote speaker at this year’s breakfast. as a key resource to attract business and investment - since Thetheredevelopment 1,200 1999 Menomonee Valleyof hasthe attracted 35 acre companies and over 5,000 jobs. Valley has been a national Menomonee
Explore the Schoolhouse Trail in Madison County. Bring your own bike and helmet. HeartLands Conservancy staff will lead a short (four mile) and longer (11 mile) family-friendly bike ride. From the MEPRD Trailhead, we will bike to Arlington Wetlands and discover the site’s Spring beauty. The longer ride will continue on to Horseshoe Lake State Park before returning to the trailhead. With the visit to Arlington Wetlands included, we estimate the short ride to last approx. 45 minutes, the long rider closer to an hour and a half.
Come to the breakfast model to be inspired on how theand Menomonee Valley has used a of economic environmental connected system of green infrastructure to create a win-win situation of sustainability. It has used green infrastructure as a key stormwater management, access to nature, improving the quality of life for resouce business - since 1999 the employees to andattract residents, biodiversity,and and investment economic success. Menomonee Valley has attracted 35 companies and over 5,000 jobs. Tuesday May 20, 2014
Breakfast & Networking: 7:30 A.M. RegisterProgram: today8:00 at HeartLandsConservancy.org A.M. - 9:00 A.M.
Paddling Trek • Saturday, June 28, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Field to Fork
DoubleTree by Hilton 1000 Eastport Plaza Dr, Collinsville, IL 62234
Carlyle Lake Sailing Association (CSA) 20960 Hazlet Park Rd., Carlyle, IL 62231. Use CSA directions only: (http://www.csa-sailing.org/Directions.html).
Recognizing Supporters of the ‘Roadmap Green Infrastructure’ Saturday, Julyfor26, 2014 -view Roadmap at www.heartlandsconservancy.org/green-infrastructure Bellecourt Manor, Belleville, IL Recognizing our 2014 Community Members Amazing local chefs and produce, live music! Your sponsorship ensures the continued success of promoting green infrastructure JOIN US: in the region!
Join HeartLands Conservancy and the Alpine Shop for the annual CSA Open House on Carlyle Lake. The Alpine Shop will have a variety of kayaks, paddle boards, etc. available for the public to try out for free. Paddle the calmer coves and inlets of Carlyle Lake while observing sail boats take on the stronger winds on the lake’s center. The CSA will have other fun offerings that day (in the past there have been sailboat rides, a luau, sand volleyball tournaments, fireworks, and more at various points around the lake). Check back closer to the event date for more details.
Field to Fork - “An Exquisite Culinary Experience In Local Cuisine”
Amazing chefs, amazing food, live music and much 2013 Green Infrastructure Breakfast Photos more will be part of a night to remember. www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
For more information about the event or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Kim O’Bryan 618-566-4451 ext. 10 or email kim.obryan@heartlandsconservancy.org.
RSVP to our treks using our Facebook page (Facebook.com/HeartLandsConservancy) or call Allie at 618566-4451 ext 21 or treks@heartlandsconservancy.org. Registration not required.
Get Involved Volunteer • Donate • Learn More
Treks are free and open to the public.
Email info@heartlandsconservancy.org or call 618-566-4451 ext. 10
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Farmland Preservation Program While Southwestern Illinois possesses hundreds of thousands of acres of prime farmland, very little has been permanently protected through a farmland preservation program. HeartLands Conservancy is pleased to announce that a generous donor has provided funding to assist in initiating farmland preservation efforts right here in Southwestern Illinois. Whether your interest is in preserving a centennial or sesquicentennial farm, protecting farmland for feeding future generations, or protecting open space in general, the protection of our farmland, some of the most productive in the world, is a strong investment in our future. Interested in learning more? Contact David Eustis, 618-566-4451 ext. 28, dave.eustis@heartlandsconservancy.org.
Annual Report
HeartLands Conservancy produces an annual report to highlight our achievements throughout the year. We take this opportunity to acknowledge our supporting members, feature completed projects, and offer insight into our program areas. Visit www.HeartLandsConservancy. org to view the 2013 Annual Report or call 618-566-4451 ext. 22 to have a copy mailed to you.
Memberships Available At: www.HeartLandsConservancy.org kim.obryan@heartlandsconservancy.org General & Management - 8%
Fundraising - 1%
Programs & Services - 91%
and invest in nature with us.
Join Today
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org 406 East Main Street Mascoutah, IL 62258 (618) 566-4451
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