INPC/40th Anniversary

State's Nature Preserves Program
Celebrates 40 years of Success

The year 2003 marks a milestone in the history of Illinois protecting its most valuable and rare natural areas – the 40th anniversary of the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC).

It began on August 28, 1963, when the governor signed legislation creating the INPC, which made Illinois the first state to create such a program for protecting rare natural areas. The late George B. Fell, a dedicated conservationist from Rockford, who founded the Natural Land Institute, authored the legislation.

Illinois Beach, in Lake County, became the first nature preserve in 1964. Since then, the INPC's protection encompasses 71,700 acres of private and public land in 93 of Illinois' 102 counties.

The Illinois Natural Areas Preservation Act (525 ILCS 30) governs the Commission today and charges the INPC to preserve, protect and defend natural areas and endangered species habitat for the benefit of the public. When land is dedicated as a nature preserve, it is protected forever for future generations to enjoy and learn from.

The Commission is celebrating the 40th anniversary with activities in conjunction with each of its four meetings during the year, including a special dinner on May 5 at the Cliffbreakers, in Rockford. The event, sponsored by the Natural Land Institute, pays special recognition to George B. Fell and his contributions and celebrates the INPC's 40 years of success.

Please read our Press Release.

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