State buys $1.8 million worth of hunting land in Pike County

2 months, 4 weeks ago

State buys land in three other counties as well; Goal is to boost public access for outdoor recreation

From a news release:

Governor Pat Quinn today announced acquisition of 547 acres of public land in four Illinois counties to boost public access for hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. The $2.8 million in land purchases includes 410 acres in Pike County, a hallowed deer hunting region, and 71 acres in Hackmatack, the nation’s newest National Wildlife Refuge. This acquisition is part of Governor Quinn’s ongoing commitment to expand and preserve Illinois’ natural resources and boost the economy.

The properties were acquired through the Illinois Open Lands Trust (OLT), which is funded by Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! capital program and allocated for public recreation and conservation purposes.

“Preservation of open space for future generations is a worthy goal, and hunting, fishing and other forms of outdoor recreation generate billions of dollars a year in Illinois,” Governor Quinn said. “Continuing to expand outdoor recreation areas and natural habitats such as Hackmatack are not only good for our economy, but also ensure that Illinois children can enjoy nature and lead a healthy lifestyle. Let’s leave no child inside!’”

“Pike County is a tremendous deer hunting destination with virtually no public access. This acquisition will give hunters an opportunity to pursue white-tails in Illinois’ deer capital,” said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller. “There is tremendous demand in Illinois for public access to open space and this purchase helps meet that demand.”

The Pike County property includes extensive timber and upland areas with some tillable Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and pasture areas well-suited for public hunting programs. The newly acquired property will remain closed to the public while the IDNR continues development of a management plan, submits regulations for hunting and other recreation programs at the site, and installs public access areas.

The Pike County parcel - southwest of Pittsfield - was acquired for the appraised value of $1.8 million.

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