Founded in 1897, BCN member group the Illinois Audubon Society is Illinois’ oldest nonprofit, independent conservation organization. Learn more about them below from Executive Director Jo Fessett!
Conserving habitat for birds and other wildlife
Headquartered in Springfield, Illinois, the Illinois Audubon Society’s mission is to promote the perpetuation and appreciation of native flora and fauna of Illinois and the habitats that support them. Our vision of success is an Illinois where birds, nature, and people all thrive in a sustainable way, and people act to conserve nature for its own sake and for the services it provides.
The Society formed in response to the decimation of certain bird species. For well over one hundred years since our first meeting on Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive, the Society remains steadfast in its care and protection for native habitat and the wildlife it supports.
A network of sanctuaries and chapters
The Society is governed by an all-volunteer Board of Directors and currently has six staff members. As a land trust, the Society purchases and accepts donations of land, creating a system of managed wildlife sanctuaries throughout Illinois. We also pre-acquire and hold land for state and federal government agencies. Local Sanctuary Committees may exist to assist the Society in sanctuary management/planning, public engagement, and educational activities.
The Society is membership-based with annual dues, and all members receive the quarterly Illinois Audubon magazine. We currently support 16 local chapters across the state whose members maintain a membership in the Society. The Illinois Audubon Society is not affiliated with the National Audubon Society; however, like many other conservation organizations, they are valued partners in our work.
Many ways to get involved
People’s understanding and appreciation of our natural resources are of great importance; therefore, conservation education is an organizational cornerstone. Because of this, our programs such as Certified Bird and Butterfly Sanctuary, Adventures Field Trips, Grants Program, Nature Talks, Gull Frolic, Illinois Big Sit, annual gatherings, etc., are open to members and non-members alike. Visit us at https://illinoisaudubon.org/ to learn more!
Top Photo: Volunteer stewards providing environmental education to young people. Photo by IAS.