Bs NOS AUD eB oO NAB wal ET LIN ) 
Individuals and groups can assist the custodian by organizing clean- 
up days to pick up litter and trash and by participating in other manage- 
ment projects under the supervision of the owning agency or the Com- 
mission staff. As an example, some badly needed vegetational manage- 
ment projects such as burning and brush removal could be completed 
with the cooperation of volunteers. 
Informed management decisions depend upon adequate knowledge 
of the preserves, much of which could be obtained by volunteers. For 
example, within the preserve system’s 59 areas, there is insufficient in- 
formation about the breeding populations of rare, endangered, and even 
common species of birds. Obviously this information would be useful in 
management for the continued well-being of this wildlife. Serious students 
could help by censusing populations of breeding birds, preparing species 
lists of plants and animals, mapping vegetational types, conducting pop- 
ulation size studies, maintaining seasonal photo stations, preparing photo- 
graphic and historical studies, monitoring water levels and water quality, 
investigating microclimates of unusual habitats, and studying habitat 
preferences of various species. Of course, there are many other possibilities 
as well. Persons doing intensive studies which involve a special use such 
as collecting should apply for a permit through the Commission or the 
Department of Conservation. 
If you are seriously interested in helping in some way, contact the 
Nature Preserves Commission. The Commission staff will suggest ways 
in which you can help, based on your interests, location, and time. The 
Commission will coordinate your efforts with those of others working in 
the same preserves, and will send you an application form for a permit 
if one is required. 
The strong protective provisions of the nature preserve statutes help 
to safeguard the preserves from intrusions. But only the continued vigil- 
ance of concerned citizens, the Nature Preserves Commission, and the 
Department of Conservation will assure that these safeguards are applied. 
A viable nature preserves system will assure that a little of that natural 
presettlement Illinois will endure in perpetuity. You can help. 
LAUDE EWR, OU ey 
Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, June 1972, “Comprehensive Plan 
for the Illinois Nature Preserves System, Part 1, Guidelines,” 13p. 
Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, John E. Schwegman, principal 
author, June 1973, “Comprehensive Plan for the Illinois Nature Pre- 
serves ‘System, Part 2, the Natural Divisions of Illinois,” 32p. 
