12 LLG PNIOTS "AWD USO, Nab Uae eee 
Conservation Conferences 
by GREG HULTMAN 
Illinois Department of Conservation 
Conservation, environmental and outdoor groups from across Illinois 
gathered one weekend last October in Springfield to discuss their common 
goals. The meeting was called CONSERVATION CONFERENCE 
ONE, the first in a series of semi-annual conferences planned by the 
Illinois Department of Conservation. They are designed to serve as a 
permanent forum for exchange of views and proposals by groups whose 
interest in Illinois’ natural and recreational resources often are divergent 
and occasionally conflict. 
Conservation Conference One, held October 18, 19 and 20 began 
with an informal get-together at Holiday Inn east, Friday evening and 
ended after lunch on Sunday. Highlight was Saturday morning when 
Governor Dan Walker made a surprise visit. He encouraged the efforts of 
the participants and spoke of the increasing recreational need of the 
people. 
Among the major events of the conference were the initial meetings 
of two special citizens’ advisory boards appointed by Conservation Direc- 
tor Tony Dean. The Lake Michigan Fisheries Council and the Illinois 
Trails Council. 
The Fisheries Council was created to deal with growing problems 
between commercial and sport fishermen, sport fishermen and Department 
Fishery Personnel. 
The Trails Council was created to serve as a forum for the broad 
range of opinion needed to effectively plan future trails development. 
Members of the council represent all major trail interest groups in the 
state. 
Both Councils are scheduled to report during the next conservation 
conference in May. 
A profile of the Department of Conservation was presented by Di- 
rector Dean. Other presentations were given on pollution and flood con- 
trol, the Environmental Protection Agency, conservation funding in 
[hnois, scenic rivers and water resources, recreational development, com- 
municating with state government, the Illinois Nature Preserve System, 
Roadsides for Wildlife Program and the drafting of plans for the Spring 
Conservation Conference. 
Speakers included Dr. Richard H. Briceland, EPA Director; Leo 
Eisel, Director of the Division of Water Resources, Department of Trans- 
portation; and Jacob Dumelle, Chairman of the Pollution Control Board. 
Several Conservation Department staff members also made presentations. 
