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serves. Research studies are encouraged, but only if conducted in a man- 
ner that will not modify natural conditions. The primary use of most 
nature preserves is for observation and study for education and pleasure. 
All public uses must be compatible with preservation of natural condi- 
tions within the preserves. Significant features are interpreted for the 
public in order to enhance public understanding, enjoyment, and appre- 
ciation of the preserves. 
The Nature Preserves System today 
The nature preserves system today consists of 59 preserves with a 
total of 15,342 acres. [he Department of Conservation, with 35 nature 
preserves, is the largest owner. [he Cook County Forest Preserve District 
is the second largest with 11 preserves. The nature preserves range in size 
from a little over 2 acres to 1,520 acres with four preserves exceeding 
1,000 acres. The map and table show the location of preserves and 
details on ownership and size. 
An intensive inventory of natural areas is currently being conducted 
by the University of Illinois Department of Landscape Architecture and 
the Natural Land Institute under contract with the Department of 
Conservation. [his three-year study will locate and evaluate remaining 
natural areas, providing guidance for further acquisition and dedication 
of nature preserves. 
How individuals can help — 
There are numerous ways for individuals to contribute to the pro- 
tection and management of nature preserves. Since neither the Nature 
Preserves Commission nor the Department of Conservation has the staff 
to visit each preserve as frequently as desirable, interested individuals 
can serve as watchdogs for the official agencies. They can report their 
observations to the owning agency and the Commission. Particularly 
helpful are regular periodic reports on a preserve, giving the status of 
such things as trails, signs, fences, gates, and parking areas as well as 
information on threats and intrusions. Newspaper clippings about nature 
preserves or projects and developments that may impact upon nature 
preserves can be sent to the Commission. 
Individuals can monitor the preserves for abuses such as vandalism, 
timber theft, and plant collecting, and for improper use such as trail 
bike riding, snowmobiling, and camping. Violations can be reported to 
the custodian or owning agency, the Commission, and the local authori- 
ties. [This would also provide an opportunity to educate local authorities 
on the legal status of nature preserves. Individuals and groups can be 
strong forces in educating the local populace on the concept of nature 
preserves and in guiding the development of surrounding land for 
compatible uses. 
