Research Initiatives

The Division of Natural Heritage is engaged in research to support our mission.

For example, we have statewide monitoring programs to detect trends in the abundance of rare species, such as bats, mussels, and Illinois Chorus Frogs.

We produce habitat models to identify areas where rare species, such as Illinois Chorus Frog, Hellbender, and Spotted Dusky Salamander, are likely to occur based on habitat characteristics.

We identify and evaluate terrestrial natural communities for the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory and aquatic natural communities for Biologically Significant Streams.

We are assessing the conservation status of natural communities and listed species in Illinois and evaluating the inclusiveness of our network of protected lands. ​​​​

In addition, the division funds outside research to further our mission through grants from the wildlife preservation fund, state wildlife grants, and other funds.