“Investing In The Nature Of Southwestern Illinois”
Commonfields www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
A Quarterly Publication of HeartLands Conservancy
Winter 2014
Directors Robert J. Hilgenbrink, Chair IL Green Economy Network Frank O. Miles, Vice Chair Southwestern Illinois College Lester Harnetiaux, Secretary Bond County Realtors Darrell Brink, Treasurer Brink Brothers Grain & Trucking William Boardman Firehouse Contracting, LLC Dennis Kirkham (Land Owner) Jane Eckert Eckert AgriMarketing Terry Lammers Regions Charles Meier IL State Representative Ron O’Connor O’Connor & Partners Cliff Schuette Schuette Seed Company Robert Weck Southwestern Illinois College
What’s Inside Boardman Easement Native Plants
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Ways to Give
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Membership
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Employee Spotlight 6 Upcoming Events
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Thank You for 25 Years 8
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Investing In The Nature Of Southwestern Illinois
2014 is an exciting time for HeartLands Conservancy; the year in which we celebrate 25 years of “Investing in the Nature of Southwestern Illinois”. Would the founders of Southwestern Illinois Resource Conservation & Development, now HeartLands Conservancy, be proud of our accomplishments, and pleased with our vision for the future? Would they value our recently crafted strategic priorities; our direction for the next several years?
Charter board members Charles Huelsman (left) and Marvin Ries (right)
To answer some of these questions I dug deep into the file cabinets and pulled out the organization’s first, albeit somewhat dusty, strategic plan, dutifully hand-typed back in 1989. One of the first things that I realized was the foresight of this group to form specifically to address natural resource concerns on a regional basis. Over the years we’ve developed numerous watershed, and other types of resource plans, and have been successful by working beyond typical jurisdictional boundaries. So, our current scale, or extent of work, appears to remain an effective means of accomplishing our work. I then scanned their vision: “to address the rural economy, water quality and quantity, orderly growth and fish & wildlife”. Wow, we’ve changed terminology and simplified the message over the past 25 years, but today’s work continues along the same general lines of our forefather’s vision. Over the years we’ve invested millions in supporting our local dairy and livestock producers, and developing cost-share programs to set aside marginal, floodprone ground. We’ve completed numerous plans and implemented projects to address both water quality and quantity. We now refer to orderly growth, as building greener communities, our effort to balance resource protection with the inevitable growth of the region. One of our greatest accomplishments has been to work towards the protection of over 5,000 acres of open space within the region, “forever homes” for our fish and wildlife. We face many new threats to our ecosystems, including the rapid advancement of invasive plant and animal species and climate change. Over the upcoming years additional threats will be realized. However, so long as we remain true to our vision, we’ll continue to identify and implement innovative solutions which support our efforts to Invest in the Nature of Southwestern Illinois. Please join us in this journey!
Commonfields Winter 2014
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Boardman Conservation Vision Completed
Welcome New & Renewing Members White Oak Society Jane Eckert David & Tamara Eustis Lester Harnetiaux Robert and Katie Nelson Mary Prevo Cliff & Christy Schuette Pat Watkins General Membership Rod Cook Diane & Richard Drake Marshall Dyer Julia Heberer Robert & Donna Hilgenbrink Stephen & Elise Ibendahl Nancy Larson Mary Laurent Gary and Margaret Lopez Laura Lyon John Mueller Debbie Newman John Sedlacek David Warner Robert & Nancy Weck Leo Welch
We congratulate Bill and Christine Boardman for completing their conservation vision on their 100-acre sesquicentennial family farm in rural Millstadt. In 2006 Bill & Christine entered into a conservation easement with HeartLands Conservancy on 50 acres of the farm. The balance of the farm has now been enrolled in a similar conservation easement. The easement was divided into two segments so that Bill and Christine could maximize federal charitable deductions. Kropp Farm has been within the family for five generations. The oldest building on the property is a log cabin which dates to approximately 1854. A brick addition to the log house was built shortly after the Civil War. Bill has invested significant time in restoring this building, including raising the log portion to install a foundation, replacing logs, installing a standing seam roof, and replacing the chimney. Inside, Bill chose to go hightech; the entire structure has been insulated with bio-based spray foam insulation and a 100% geothermal system heating / cooling system. Bill is currently restoring the “new� house on the property, which dates to 1900. Historically the property consisted of approximately 70 acres of fields and 30 acres woods, pasture and buildings. In 2007 the fields were put into the federal Conservation Reserve Program for trees, and were planted with 26,000 stick- bare root trees, including a mix of oak species and black walnut (provided by The State of Illinois). In 2008 two lakes were constructed, providing additional habitat diversity on the property.
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Commonfields Winter 2014
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Native Plants in Public Spaces Have you ever seen a burning bush shrub or liriope groundcover in your community and thought to yourself, “Where have I seen that plant before?” The answer is “everywhere”! A lot of our ornamental plants that we use are often ambiguous and seen everywhere from Southwestern Illinois to Pennsylvania, to Wisconsin, to Texas. Are there not a better choice of plants to use in our communities in Southwestern Illinois that are native to our area and better reflect our history and sense of place? The answer is yes. There are countless native plants that are now commercially available, but we are often afraid to use native plants because we have seen bad examples in the past that have looked “weedy”. This perception is especially true when native plants have been used in public places such as streetscapes, parking lots, or public parks. HeartLands Conservancy asked several experts who have planted and maintained native plantings in public places about how to successfully plant and maintain native plants. A few excerpts: HLC: What are some common misconceptions about using native plantings in public spaces? Jeff Moody, Project Manager at Williams Creek Consulting: The most common misconception of native plantings is it will look weedy. As in any form of landscaping, maintenance is required to obtain the desired outcome. Another common misconception is the plants will grow too tall and become a safety issue. This can be true in some instances; however, the designer should be well aware of any safety issues and should choose s native plants complimentary to land use. It’s all about “right plant, right place” and choosing the appropriate plants for the climate and project setting. Simon Barker, Partner at Native Landscape Solutions: Probably that their use will save money immediately! Long term they will but thought needs to be given to how they are utilized. Also the need for immediate gratification, the establishment phase is long and often not understood or explained in a sufficient manner. Jack Pizzo, Owner of the Pizzo Group: The idea that they are low or no maintenance. They need intensive management initially to ensure their establishment. HLC: Tell us about some of the benefits of native plants, especially in public spaces. Simon Barker: Ecological improvements in habitat for countless species of insects, butterflies and birds that bring life back to urban and suburban spaces, this alone brings a new dimension to public areas. A sense of ‘place’ that native plant communities bring along with their seasonal changes give folks a sense of nature that is often so far removed from modern life. Decreased use of pesticides and fertilizer is also important, decreasing pollutant runoff. To learn more about native plants and how you can incorporate them into your community contact stephen.ibendahl@heartlandsconservancy.org.
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Two New Brochures Available Planned Giving Did you know there are creative ways to support HeartLands Conservancy? Ways in which HeartLands Conservancy, you and your loved ones all benefit at the same time? Ways to Give: • • • •
Bequests Stocks-Mutual Funds Life Insurance Retirement Plan Assets • Charitable Remainder Trusts
Learn More by visiting www.HeartLandsConservancy.org/get-involved/ planned-giving Contact our office, so together, we can create your conservation legacy.
CREATE YOUR CONSERVATION LEGACY
Protecting Your Land
Many families have been exemplary caretakers of their land for generations, and have made the decision to protect what they love; be it the land’s scenery, its unique flora and fauna, or its rich agricultural heritage.
Many families have been exemplary caretakers of their land for generations, and have made the decision to protect what they love; be it the land’s scenery, its unique flora and fauna, or its rich agricultural heritage. For other landowners it’s protecting their family’s The conservation of open space ensures cleaner water and air resources, space to collect and store stormwater, a broader diversity of plant and animal species, and additional opportunities for outdoor recreation activities for generations to come.
quality of life.
What Is Land Protection? Land protection is a voluntary commitment by the landowner to protect land and may be accomplished through a variety of tools, including: • Donation of Property • Sale/Acquisition • Conservation & Agricultural Easements Our agricultural, cultural and natural resources are finite, and landowners’ commitments in protecting their property helps to ensure a conservation legacy within our community as well as the greater region as a whole.
Finally, some landowners consider this a business decision, factoring in the potential reduction in capital gains taxes, possible deductions on federal income taxes, and local property tax relief. HeartLands Conservancy is here to identify options and potential benefits that will assist you and your family in achieving your land conservation goals. Serving Southwestern Illinois since 1989, we are the oldest and largest environmental nonprofit organization in our region. We’ve assisted in protecting over 5,000 acres throughout Southwestern Illinois, HeartLands Conservancy is working to balance resource protection with the continued growth of our region.
Create Your Conservation Legacy
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
Join Us in Protecting Your Land
HeartLands Conservancy 406 East Main Street Mascoutah, IL 62258 618-566-4451
Ways to Create Your Legacy: •
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org/what-we-do/ conservation-of-open-space 4
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Donating or Selling Land Conservation Easements Agricultural Easements
Commonfields Winter 2014
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If everyone reading this page sent this:
H
2014
eartLands Conservancy Donor 123 Main Street Your City, IL 12345 PAY TO THE ORDER OF
February 12, 2014
DATE
$
HeartLands Conservancy
Fifty dollars and 00/100
50.00 DOLLARS
2014 Membership
HeartLands Conservancy Donor
FOR
...HeartLands Conservancy could:
1.
Protect an important natural area from being lost
2.
Connect thousands of people to their natural resources
3.
Plant over 100,000 trees
4.
Safequard a stream corridor for improved water quality
Your gift could do a lot. (Now imagine what $100 could do.)
To make a secure donation in any amount online, visit our website www.HeartLandsConservancy.org and fill out the donation form. To make a gift by mail, please send your donation to: HeartLands Conservancy at 406 East Main Street, Mascoutah, IL 62258. HeartLands Conservancy is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in the state of Illinois. Any gift made to HeartLands Conservancy is fully tax deductible, as allowed by law. A tax receipt will be provided once your gift has been received.
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Welcome New Employee - Kim O’Bryan HeartLands Conservancy welcomes Kim O’Bryan as the Development and Events Coordinator. Kim oversees advancing private and corporate investment. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She comes to the organization with fifteen years of event planning and fundraising experience in the community service and school-related fields. Six years prior was spent working in advertising in St. Louis. Kim is a Past President of the Junior Service Club of St. Clair County and remains an active member. She regularly volunteers with Wolf Branch School in Swansea.
“I am looking forward to meeting our members and
planning events that will showcase what HeartLands Conservancy does for our communities. By engaging our membership with exciting events and activities they will start to see the impact of Investing in the Nature of Southwestern Illinois.”
Welcome New Employee - Janet Buchanan HeartLands Conservancy welcomes Janet Buchanan, CFM as the Special Projects - Water Policy employee. Janet graduated from the University of Michigan School of Natural Resources and Environment with a Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environment: Conservation Ecology and Environmental Policy and Planning fields of study. Janet was the recipient of the Jonathan Bulkley Water Prize in 2013 and the Tamara L. Reeme Scholarship for Environmental Policy and Planning. In 2011 she received the Heinen Fellowship for academic achievement in environmental studies. Janet is certified as a Floodplain Manager from the Association of State Floodplain Managers.
“I’m thrilled to be working at HeartLands and getting to grips with the amazing system
of waterways in Southwestern Illinois. What I love about working on water is that it connects to so many other issues of health, wealth, and well-being, so I look forward to collaborating with others to protect our water resources in ways that benefit everyone.”
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Commonfields Winter 2014
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Upcoming Events Saturday, February 1 FREE EVENT! Pull out you warmest layers and sharpest set of binoculars for the 5th Annual Eagle Trek at the Kaskaskia Lock & Dam (4800 Lock and Dam Road). Enjoy a day of outdoor fun with the family exploring the Lock & Dam and viewing eagles. Experts will be on hand to help identify birds in the wild. You may also enjoy a hike downstream from the Dam to see the confluence of the Mississippi & Kaskaskia Rivers. Other activities, for all ages, will be available that day. This event encourages residents of Southwestern Illinois to get out and experience their public open spaces by providing a unique eagle event south of the Alton/St. Louis area. Entrance to the event and programs & activities are free! Leash-trained dogs welcome. Thursday, March 20th - Join us as we celebrate 25 years of “Investing in the Nature of Southwestern Illinois” at our 2014 Annual Dinner. This year’s event will be held at The Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville. We will also recognize an individual and an organization for our Conservation Leadership and the Sea of Verdure Awards. For more information, visit our website at www.HeartlandsConservancy.org or contact kim.obryan@heartlandsconservancy. org. Save the Date: Tuesday, May 20th, 2014 - Annual Green Infrastructure Breakfast at the Double Tree by Hilton 1000 Eastport Plaza Dr. Collinsville, IL 62234 8:00 AM
Become a Member TODAY! HeartLands Conservancy provides leadership and solutions to sustain and enrich the diverse environmental resources of Southwestern Illinois. Your investment stays where you live, work, and play! YES! I want to become a member of HeartLands Conservancy Name: _______________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________ City:________________________ State:______________ Zip:_________ E-mail:______________________________ Phone:___________________ To pay by credit card, call our office or fill in the information below: q MasterCard q Visa q Discover Card#___________________________________ Expiration Date __________ Card verification# (on back of your card, last 3 or 4 digit #)____________ Signature____________________________________________________
Membership Levels Acorn Seedling Sapling Pin Oak Red Oak Chinkapin Oak Post Oak Bur Oak
$50 $100 $250 $500* $1,000* $2,500* $5,000* $10,000*
* Designates membership in the White Oak Society
Investment Areas Get Involved
Land Conservation Sustainable Communities General (best use)
Please send me event invitations I’d like to know about volunteer opportunities
Please Mail/Return this form and payment to: HeartLands Conservancy, 406 East Main Street, Mascoutah, IL 62258 *HeartLands Conservancy is a non-profit 501(c)(3) and your donation is fully tax deductible.
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406 East Main Street Mascoutah, IL 62258 (618) 566-4451
Address service requested:
www.HeartLandsConservancy.org
/HeartLandsConservancy
Eagle Trek
February 1
Thank you for your support!