McLean County Times

Thank you to the Woodford County Farm Bureau for presenting me with the Illinois Farm Bureau ACTIVATOR Friend of Agriculture Award. I am humbled and honored for the Bureau’s trust in my efforts to be their strongest advocate in Springfield on issues most important to our District 105 farm families. I greatly value our vital partnership!

Pictured (left to right): Mark Blunier, Eric Hodel, Wayne Blunier, Ali Gibbs, Representative Tipsword, Autum Jones, Denny Pfanzs, Craig Moritz.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) recently announced nearly $1 million in grants to support 14 stewardship programs managed by land trusts on land protected by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC).

The grants are part of the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant program, which aims to increase the delivery of much-needed land and water stewardship activities to natural areas permanently protected within the INPC system.

Given the growing stewardship needs of natural areas throughout Illinois, this grant program funds projects that help land trusts expand staff and purchase equipment for these activities.

The ParkLands Foundation of Woodford and McLean counties was awarded a grant totaling $84,855.01 for the following project:

Purchase of a truck, mower, and supplies to support ecological restoration through prescribed fire implementation and invasive species removal at Letcher Basin Land and Water Reserve, Ridgetop Hill Prairie Nature Preserve, Chinquapin Bluffs Land and Water Reserve, and Weston Cemetery Prairie Nature Preserve.

The policies implemented under the “progressive” banner have driven families and businesses out of the state, left children struggling in failing schools, and fueled an alarming rise in crime.

No one should have to fear for their safety when taking part in the electoral process. We must all stand firm against political threats and violence in order to protect our democracy.

Fall trout season set for cold open on Saturday, October 5, and full open on Saturday, October 19. The first trout season window, which will be open from October 5 through October 18 is for catch-and-release at selected sites only. The standard trout season with a five-trout limit will open at 5 a.m. on October 19. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) fishing license including a $6.50 trout stamp will be required for both types of fishing activities.

The full trout fishing season will be enjoyed on 60 ponds lakes and streams throughout the state that have been stocked by IDNR. This list includes Highland Old City Lake in Madison County which has been remediated and returned to the trout list. The trout list includes waters in Northern Central and Southern Illinois.

IDNR doubles bobcat permits for season; application deadline is Monday September 30. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced the doubling of bobcat hunting permits for the upcoming season. This decision shows the successful recovery of the bobcat population and teaches the importance of effective wildlife management in our state.

Bobcats have a storied history in Illinois. Once nearly eradicated from the state due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting these elusive animals have made a remarkable comeback over the past few decades. Thanks to dedicated efforts by IDNR and various conservation organizations bobcats have rebounded significantly reclaiming their rightful place in Illinois’ ecosystems.

According to IDNR recent surveys indicate that there are now around 5 000 bobcats in the state a remarkable increase from previous years. This growth is attributed to improved habitat conditions and regulated hunting practices that ensure sustainable population levels.

Managed hunting plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy wildlife populations. IDNR has carefully evaluated bobcat population dynamics determining that increasing permits from 1 000 to 2 000 is both responsible and necessary step By allowing regulated hunting IDNR can manage population effectively preventing overpopulation associated ecological issues

The deadline for applying to IDNR for a bobcat hunting/trapping permit is Monday September 30

Please remember slow down watch out farmers their equipment during harvest season Thank you all farmers all do!