iDNR
As spring sets in IDNR issues reminder to avoid handling wild animals, birds
By Tribune Staff • As the weather warms up and more people head outside, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is reminding everyone to leave young birds and other animals alone when they encounter them in the wild. Well-intentioned people may believe they’re helping nature by taking possession of young rabbits, fawn deer, baby…
Read MoreIDNR seeking campground hosts for 2026 camping season
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking campground hosts for the 2026 camping season for state parks, recreation areas and historic sites across Illinois. Campground hosting is a perfect position for anyone who enjoys camping and helping others. Hosts are often the first to greet state park visitors. They check on…
Read MoreApplications now open for IDNR volunteer fire assistance grants
By Tribune Staff • SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants now through Feb. 16, 2026. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service VFA federal grant program provides matching funds to aid fire departments in the purchase of new equipment and helps fund training.…
Read MoreApplications now open for IDNR Volunteer Fire Assistance grants
By Tribune Staff • SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants now through Feb. 16, 2026. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service VFA federal grant program provides matching funds to aid fire departments in the purchase of new equipment and helps fund training.…
Read MoreMore than 51,000 deer harvested during first weekend of Illinois firearm deer season
SPRINGFIELD – Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary total of 51,409 deer during the first weekend of the Illinois firearm deer season between Nov. 21-23. Comparatively, hunters took 54,661 and 53,348 deer during the first firearm weekends in 2024 and 2023. Illinois’ seven-day firearm deer season will conclude December 4-7. Youth hunters with an unfilled,…
Read MoreD’oh, a deer: ‘Tis the season to look out for amorous mammals
SPRINGFIELD – The leaves are changing, the nights are getting longer, the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air – and deer are on the move. The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois Department of Natural Resources are reminding the public to be alert for deer as we enter peak mating season, with their movements…
Read MoreIDNR to accept bids for agriculture leases for 2026-2030
By Tribune Staff SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will accept sealed bids this fall for about 20 agricultural lease contracts for crop years 2026-2030. IDNR utilizes agricultural leases as a tool to support wildlife populations and recreational opportunities at sites owned or managed by the agency. The leases developed under this…
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