A PUBLICATION OF PRAIRIE RIVERS NETWORK

Protecting Illinois’ Rivers for People, Fish, and Wildlife

Dual Legal Actions to Reduce Pollution that IN THIS ISSUE // Fouls Illinois Water and Fuels Gulf Dead Zone Greetings from Glynnis...... 2 Standing Up for Science Education... 3 by glynnis collins & kim knowles els. A decade ago, Georgetown, Illinois Take Action, Volunteer, Visit Our Rivers... 4 This March, Prairie Rivers Network had to abandon its drinking water res- 2011 Annual Report Insert joined our Mississippi River Collab- ervoir because of high nitrate levels. Member Profile...... 5 orative partners in launching two law- Water suppliers for Decatur, Danville, Board of Directors Update...... 6 suits against US EPA for their failure and Streator had to install expensive Protect the Shawnee...... 6 to regulate nutrient pollution. ion exchange systems costing millions Carp and the Chicago River...... 7 of dollars to remove nitrate from pol- Too many nutrients - a problem luted reservoir water. Ongoing opera- ties throughout Minnesota, Wiscon- Most people know that nitrogen and tion and maintenance expenses cost sin, Iowa, and Illinois are forced to phosphorus are important nutrients ratepayers tens to hundreds of thou- officially close beaches because of the for plants and animals. At high levels sands of dollars per year. potential presence of blue-green algae in water, however, the beneficial ef- toxins. The toxins can sicken or even fects of these nutrients become prob- In rivers and lakes, nitrogen and phos- kill people, pets, and livestock. lematic, and the nutrients are consid- phorus pollution stimulates excessive ered pollution. growth of algae, creating ugly mats The sources - Illinois is top contrib- or pea-soup scummy water. When the utor of Dead Zone pollution Nitrate, a form of nitrogen, is toxic to algae die, they rot. The bacteria that Most nutrient pollution in Illinois wa- people and other animals at high lev- decompose them use up most or even all of the oxygen in the water, choking ters and the Mississippi River comes We are reducing nutrient pollution aquatic life. An enormous example of from farmland (especially corn and in Illinois despite agency inaction this problem is the “Dead Zone” that soybean fields) and from sewage Although state and federal regula- forms in the Gulf of Mexico every treatment plants. Illinois is the largest tors have been derelict in their du- summer. source of both the nitrogen and phos- ties, we are working with partners like the Illinois Chapter of the Sierra phorus pollution that causes the Dead Club to reduce nutrient pollution by Especially in lakes and reservoirs, Zone. Illinois earns its special status working directly with communities. nutrient pollution can stimulate the partly because of the vast extent of For instance, LaSalle, Plano, Itasca, growth of blue-green algae. This industrialized corn and soybean pro- Mokena, and Sycamore have each agreed to install new technologies “pond scum” is unsightly and smells duction across our landscape. that use bacteria to remove both like vomit when it rots - enough to nitrogen and phosphorus from sew- keep people from enjoying boating age before it is discharged to Illinois We are also home to Chicago’s Metro- streams. The Village of Mahomet and swimming. The algae also some- politan Water Reclamation District; agreed to remove phosphorus and times release toxic chemicals into the its seven sewage treatment plants, nitrogen as well, helping to protect the Sangamon River, a drinking wa- water. Each summer, local communi- including the largest sewage treatment ter source for many Illinois families. continued on page 3

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 | S pri n g 2 0 1 2 WWW.PRAIRIERIVERS.ORG PRAIRIE RIVERS N ETWORK

GREETINGS FROM GLYNNIS

This year we mark the 45th anniver- Illinois’ advocate for clean water and sary of this organization’s founding. healthy rivers

Forty-five years ago, in 1967, Patricia Prairie Rivers Network promotes the and Bruce Hannon learned of the restoration of polluted rivers and the and into serious consideration. We’ve plan to build a second dam on the preservation of pristine rivers - with helped residents say no to poorly- the goal of safeguarding resources for Sangamon River near Decatur (Lake conceived factory farms and mines future generations. Decatur had already been construct- that threaten their drinking water and ed in 1922). The proposed dam and quality of life. We’ve worked with pro- BOARD OF DIRECTORS reservoir would displace families and gressive businesses and municipalities Jon MCnUS SE n flood most of Allerton Park. The President on new ways to reduce pollution from Committee on Allerton Park, Prairie E ric Fre yfogle sewage and other industries. Rivers Network’s predecessor, was Secretary born out of the Hannons’ conviction M ichael Rose nthal As we continue to work toward our Treasurer that the project must be stopped. We goal of clean water and healthy rivers, E lle n Bullock invite you to read an essay by mem- there are several opportunities for you M argaret Brun s ber and 2010 River Steward awardee to help and take action listed in this Scott Hays about the origins of the Clark Bullard newsletter. And we hope to be calling proposed Oakley dam at prairierivers. Charles Goodall on your support in the near future for org/articles/2012/03/oakley-dam/. We Jason Li ndse y a bill that will revitalize the Illinois De- will feature other historical snapshots partment of Natural Resources’ con- in future newsletters and on our web- servation programs. We are hearing STAFF site throughout the year. rumors from Springfield that lawmak- Glynn is Colli n s Executive Director ers are working on a bill to generate Steph Adams revenue for the financialy-struggling Communications & Membership Department. Among other duties, the Services Department runs our State Parks and Traci Barkle y Water Resources Scientist leads the state’s Asian carp monitoring elliot Bri nkman and response program. Reasonable Water Resources Specialist - Habitat fees for the many services the Depart- Conservation ment currently provides for free are Robert h I RSChfeld certainly long overdue. A severance Coalition Organizer - Invasive Species tax on natural wealth (such as coal, oil, Stacy James Water Resources Scientist and forest products) that permanently Forty-five years after we stopped Kim Knowles leaves the state could compensate Il- Staff Attorney the dam, we are strong and growing linoisans for the lost wealth; revenue stronger. Included in this issue of Vickie nUDE L M An could support programs to mitigate Operations Manager Prairie River Notes is our 2011 Annual impacts from those activities. brian perbix Report. I’m proud to share with you Grassroots Organizer this summary of an organization in Many thanks to our long-time mem- Cecily Smith good financial health, that is making Water Resources Specialist bers and the growing number of fi- responsible use of our donors’ dollars Sarah Scott nancial supporters who are making Administrative Assistant to improve the condition of Illinois’ our work possible - we truly could not Lucy Bannon rivers. We’ve moved the discussion do it without you. Support Staff about stopping Asian carp and other Newsletter design by McKenzie Wagner, Inc. invaders out of the realm of fantasy 2 | 3

STANDING UP FOR SCIENCE EDUCATION by Brian Perbix professional development retreat for With our partners in the Heartland Prairie Rivers Network was dismayed teachers at Rend Lake Resort where Coalfield Alliance, Prairie Rivers Net- to learn last year that the Illinois agency staff and coal industry repre- work has asked the Governor’s office Department of Commerce and Eco- sentatives sing the praises of coal. to immediately halt the distribution of the state sponsored coal cur- nomic Opportunity (DCEO) is using It may not surprise you that state riculum and to cancel the annual Coal taxpayer money to market a one-sided sponsored coal education materials Education Retreat. So far we have view of coal to students as the safe provide no information about how received no indication that either the and clean fuel of the future. coal mining, burning, or waste dis- DCEO or Governor Quinn will put posal threaten our clean water. Sadly, “From the Coal Mines to the Power our children’s science education ahead the materials also coach teachers to Lines” (tinyurl.com/7y6hk9m) is a of coal industry interests.// question whether human use of fossil K-12 curriculum that offers teachers fuels is contributing to global climate detailed lesson plans to incorporate change. coal into every subject area. Teachers Help Keep Propaganda Out of Our Kids’ Schools are invited to learn how to use this Illinois is one of three states that uses program at the annual Coal Education taxpayer money to produce and dis- Please sign our petition calling on Governor Quinn to stop selling coal Conference (tinyurl.com/7ggklao) tribute coal marketing materials under to our kids: tinyurl.com/7bakdc9 - a state sponsored, all expenses paid the guise of legitimate education. legal Action continued from page 1 How will the lawsuits affect pollution? plant in the world, send an average of EPA can unify states behind solutions Standards for allowable levels of nu- 1.4 billion gallons of treated sewage that match the scope of the problem. trient pollution are the necessary start- down the Mississippi River every day. ing point for reducing nutrient pollu- The lawsuits tion. We can’t make progress without Little action from regulators The lawsuits challenge EPA’s refusal establishing a target to aim for. The EPA called on states in 1998 to to address a critical pollution prob- adopt specific limits on allowable lev- lem it has acknowledged for decades. Standards will give us a direct avenue to els of nutrient pollution, and prom- Prairie Rivers Network and our Mis- reduce pollution from wastewater treat- ised to enact its own limits if states sissippi River Collaborative partners, ment plants. Phased in over time, new had not complied by 2003. Illinois, represented by the Natural Resourc- technologies are affordable and can sig- along with every state along the Mis- es Defense Council, are challenging nificantly reduce nutrient pollution. sissippi River ignored that deadline. EPA’s denial of a 2008 petition to the So far, only Wisconsin and Minnesota agency asking them to establish in- Unfortunately, the standards will NOT have taken significant action on their stream standards and clean up plans provide a direct avenue for reducing state’s contributions to the problem. for nutrient pollution. Separately, we nutrient pollution from farmland, be- are seeking to compel EPA to finally cause the agricultural industry is not respond to an even older petition – a EPA’s continued lack of leadership held accountable for its pollution 2007 request that the agency modern- at a federal level is a serious problem under current regulatory programs. ize its decades-old pollution standards because the Mississippi River flows Our national agricultural policy can for sewage treatment plants and in- through or forms the border of 10 and should address this shortcoming. clude nitrogen and phosphorus in states, no one of which can act inde- Targets for pollution reduction, in the those standards. pendently to fully protect the river. form of standards, are an essential Only meaningful federal action by the first step.//

WWW.PRAIRIERIVERS.ORG PRAIRIE RIVERS N ETWORK

take action - volunteer - visit our rivers

Spring has arrived! To celebrate Prairie Rivers Network’s 45th Anniversary, we give you 45 ways to connect with, care for and learn more about Illinois’ rivers and streams at: prairierivers.org/45-for-45.

BONEYARD CREEK COMMUNITY DAY AND CLEAN UP - April 14

Prairie Rivers Network is proud to again sponsor the Boneyard Creek Clean-Up. Please grab a friend, put on some old clothes and help clean up one of Champaign County’s natural treasures.

Visit boneyardcreek.org for more details and to register.

Run for Your Rivers at the Illinois Marathon - April 27,28 - Walk, Run, Donate, or Volunteer

Join in the fun -- be a part of one of the biggest community events in Illinois. There is something for everyone.

Find out more: prairierivers.org/run

Prairie Rivers Network is sponsoring a water hydra- tion station along the marathon route. Join us.

To volunteer: tinyurl.com/6qcxu8w then enter password prn2012

connect with Illinois rivers

Visit the rivers of Illinois this spring.

We have river experience flyers for each region of Illinois.

We also have a great handout for getting your kids connected with water at home and outdoors.

Go to: prairierivers.org/rivers/river-recreation/ 2011 Annual Report

I am pleased to present Prairie Rivers Network’s 2011 Annual Report. The report is a snapshot of an organization making real progress in protect- ing clean water, an organization with a growing membership, and one that is maintaining finan- cial health in a difficult economy. I am confident that 2012 will bring more of the same. Our most important asset, the network of people passion- ate about protecting healthy river systems that are essential for a good quality of life, is stronger than ever. Through that network--of members, private foundations, board members, and our tal- ented staff--we have the power to restore clean MEMBERSHIP AND DONOR GROWTH water and healthy rivers, supporting vibrant com- A track record of effectiveness and an increased effort on outreach have sup- munities throughout Illinois. ported continuing growth in our membership. Membership in 2011 was the – Glynnis Collins, Executive Director highest ever, 720 members, up from 650 last year and 610 in 2008. Our mem- bers give us clout with lawmakers, are the core network of activists advocating for healthy rivers, and provide us with essential financial support to carry out our work. Our track record also pays off with institutional donors: 2011 saw an expansion in the number of private foundations supporting our work through grants.

SOUND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT In 2011, Prairie Rivers Network saw growth in revenue and expenditures while maintaining an adequate cash reserve. The 6% bud- get growth over 2010 allowed us to increase staff time directed to our clean water programs. Revenue sources were private founda- tion grants (77% of revenue, some of which is earmarked for 2012 expenses), member donations (18% of revenue), and sales and interest (5% of revenue). Eighty cents out of every dollar raised directly supported programs to reduce pollution, restore natural areas along our rivers, and enhance public support for river protection.

Statement of Activities for the Year Ended December 31, 2011 Revenue Expenses Donations $145,159 Salaries $275,325 Grants $616,628 Taxes & Benefits $37,384 Investment Income $821 Direct Program Costs $126,267 In-Kind Donations & Reimbursements $28,333 Fundraising (with salaries & taxes/benefits) $62,735 Sales & Miscellaneous Revenue $12,173 Management/General (with salaries & taxes/benefits) $32,325 Total Revenue $803,114 Total Expenses $534,036

Net Assets, beginning of year $219,859; Net Assets, end of year $488,937 * * Our net assets at the beginning of the year include grant funds received in previous years earmarked for work in 2011. Similarly, net assets at the end of the year include grant funds earmarked for 2012 work. Our finances are audited each year by an independent certified accountant and are available upon request. Our Federal 990 tax forms are also available upon request or through www.guidestar.org.

To our members, funders, and supporters, we offer our gratitude for your support. The costs of fighting for a clean, safe environ- ment necessarily fall on the shoulders of people like you. Profits from big business will always ensure loud voices in Springfield and Washington, D.C. for narrow, short-term perspectives that discount or ignore environmental effects. Those representing our rivers are Davids to the well-funded Goliaths; without your financial support, the cause is lost. Thanks to you, over the past decade, Prairie Rivers Network has experienced a compounded annual growth rate of 13%.

If you are just getting to know Prairie Rivers Network, we invite you to take time to learn more. Our website is a good place to start – prairierivers.org. We are always looking to connect with people everywhere who care about clean water, wildlife, and river recre- ation. On the website you will find information on important issues in Illinois, on ways you can help, and on outings and other events where you can both learn more and meet people who share your conservation and protection interests. 2011 ACCOMPLISHMENTS Asian Carp and Other calls and visits to lawmakers. A key victory was Illinois EPA’s Aquatic Invaders denial of a permit for the proposed “Traditions” mega-dairy that We have changed the con- would have allowed the factory farm to turn a stream into a ma- tent and tenor of the con- nure pit. versation about protecting the Great Lakes from Asian Protecting Clean Water in the Coalfields carp through our work with a We continue to gain momentum in our push to decrease water broad coalition of state and pollution and habitat destruction from coal mining and coal-gen- regional partners. Severing erated electricity. Victories at individual facilities such as Industry the manmade connection mine, Deer Run and Sugar Camp mines, and Ameren’s Coffeen between the Mississippi Riv- Power Station reduce pollution locally and also set precedents er and Great Lakes in order we will use to push for systemic improvements across Illinois. to stop the advance of the carp once seemed a pie-in-the-sky idea; it is now receiving real consideration by City and State The Heartland Coalfield Alliance has grown tremendously leaders. We have also re-framed the issue as a 2-way problem, – increasing the effectiveness of all members through strategic with repercussions for downstate Illinois and the entire Missis- planning and coordination of efforts. A comment from a member sippi River basin. Support from these stakeholders will be es- speaks volumes: “Thank you – I don’t feel alone anymore.” sential to implement a lasting and effective solution. Clean Water Act Implementation and Enforcement Riverside Habitat Restoration We are finally seeing the results of years of pressure to control By coordinating efforts of conservation agencies and organiza- nutrient pollution from sewage treatment plants – tions along the Mississippi River we have begun to bridge the bureaucratic boundaries between the Corps of Engineers’ ef- • There is recognition among the polluters that they will be forts in the River’s main channel and work by other agencies required to reduce nutrient pollution; and land trusts in the floodplain and uplands. Breaking out of • Illinois EPA is starting to require nutrient control in permits institutional silos will improve on-the-ground outcomes for riv- for sewage treatment plants; erside conservation. Our work with conservation partners along • The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater the Vermilion River in East-Central Illinois led to a new conser- Chicago is finally moving on many longstanding pollution vation plan that will be implemented in a coordinated fashion, problems including disinfecting and removing phosphorus improving protection for Illinois’ only designated National Scenic pollution from treated sewage. River. This pressure is opening up avenues for creativity in control- Curbing Factory Farm Pollution ling both regulated and unregulated sources of nutrient pollution We have helped engage and empower residents across Illinois – we are seeing opportunities for more treatment and other cre- who are concerned about factory farm pollution. Vocal oppo- ative ways of reducing nutrient pollution, such as through green nents of factory farms have consistently shown up to permit infrastructure, other stormwater management, and addressing hearings, generated on-point letters to the editor, and made agricultural pollution.

2012 GOALS In 2012 and beyond, we will continue to address the most work directly with industry important issues for the health of our rivers and the health of to demonstrate and docu- our communities. ment cost-effective meth- ods for reducing water pol- Reducing Pollution From Farming lution. Conventional farming methods pollute water and damage vi- tal headwater streams. We will press for Farm Bill provisions Re-envisioning How We that require less polluting practices and encourage farmers Live with Our Rivers to enroll in conservation programs that compensate them for We need to change the adopting water-friendly practices. We will continue to press way we live with our rivers. for increased oversight of under-regulated factory farms and The manmade reversal of stronger state livestock regulations. the Chicago River and the levees and dams that choke the upper Mississippi River have Enforcing Clean Water Laws outlived their purposes. The current practice of paving our Without support from voters, state regulators lack the backing landscape and plowing to the edges of rivers and wetlands they need to be tough on pollution. Our efforts will compel causes increased flooding and pollution. Our work to prevent regulators to establish limits for nutrient pollution that fouls the spread of Asian carp and other invaders, and to improve state waters and causes the Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico. riverside habitat conservation, promotes a new paradigm of We will pursue better controls on coal ash disposal, protecting mutual benefit that fosters a healthier living and working rela- communities from groundwater pollution. We will continue to tionship with our rivers. THANK YOU MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Prairie Rivers Network thanks our com- H A U C E N N O Stephanie and Ralph Alexander Anna Keck and Jason Lindsey munity partners and encourages you to B R N support and thank those businesses and The Bales Family Chris and David Main organizations that protect our rivers. Irene and Clark Bullard Diane and John Marlin Glynnis Collins and Nick Brozovic Robert J. McKim BUSINESS DONORS Bill Davey Jon McNussen Platinum $5,000+ Susan Lannin and Albert Ettinger Robert J. Moore McKenzie Wagner, Inc.* Jean Flemma and John Epifanio Jean and David Nanney Jane and Eric Freyfogle Sharon and Jack Paxton Gold $1,000 to $2,499 John B. Gilpin Beverly and Thomas Rauchfuss Champaign Surplus * Bruce Hannon Bruce Semans Patagonia-Enviro Department through The Bruce Hannon Friends of Illinois DiAnne and Terry Hatch Cecily Smith and David Delaney Champaign Surplus Rivers recognizes those members who Dixie and Gary Jackson Bill Van Hagey Upclose Printing and Marketing * have pledged an annual gift of $1,000 Karen Carney and Rob Kanter Sherry Weaver or more to sustain the work of Prairie Silver $500 to $999 Rivers Network into the future. Annette and Charles Lansford Sherrill and Richard Worthen Common Ground Food Co-Op First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust Marco Technical Documentation, Inc. National Wildlife Federation Jean and David Nanney Nina and Carl Barron Headwaters Circle $5,000+ Bronze $250 to $499 Mare and Jim Payne Sandra and Peter Beak Anderson Farms Michael Podolsky Victoria and Val Beasley Irene and Clark Bullard Alicia and David Beck Blue Moon Farm Leslie Shad and Joseph Brennan Jane and Eric Freyfogle Clifton Bergeron Progressive Asset Management Sue and Tom Smith Anna Keck and Jason Lindsey Dolores and Richard Bishop Sleepy Creek Vineyards ** Bill Van Hagey Pat and Jim Bland Waterflow Consultants, Inc. Chris and David Main Jon McNussen Amy Blumenshine and Mike Troutman River Guardians $250 to $499 Valerie Woodruff and Mike Boero Business Partners $50 to $249 Bruce Semans Linda and John Braden B.K.S. Iyengar Yoga Institute of C-U * Janet and Ansel Anderson Jean and Don Burkholder Brown, Hobbs, & McMurray Insurance Legacy Circle $2,500 - $4,999 Sari and Ken Aronson Richard Cahill Busey Bank Investment Group Janice Ashwood, Rural Residents For Blair Campbell CDC Paper & Janitor Supply Bill Davey Responsible Agriculture Yong Cao Sandra and George Batzli James R. Carter Champaign Cycle * Anne Ehrlich Barbara and Bill Childers Chicagoland Canoe Base, Inc. Nancy and Charles Goodall Joyce Blumenshine Patricia and Charles Bruns Anonymous Country Road Greenhouse, Inc. Anna Sophia Johnson Carolyn Casady-Trimble and Ralph Trimble Mary Craig Crate & Barrel Janet Gates Conover and Joe Conover Champ W. Davis, Jr. (Geneva Store Associates) River Protectors $1,000 to $2,499 Lori Raetzman and Charles Davies R. Edward DeWalt Illini Glider Club * Carol Emmerling-DiNovo and Frank DiNovo Amy Dickinson International Galleries * Brenda and Wayland Eheart Maggie Dougherty-Roberts Nancy Adams and Alfred Krahenbuhl Brenda and Jim Edgar J.F. New & Associates, Inc. (Cardno) Stephanie and Ralph Alexander Lois and Ernest Gullerud Sue and Dick Harris Cathy Edmiston Kickapoo Landing * The Bales Family Susan and Lewis Hopkins Karen Ennen and David O`Brien Krannert Center For The Performing Arts * Mrs. Walter F. Brissenden Cynthia Hoyle and Sheldon Katz Tracy Evans and Andrzej Bartke Prairie Gardens * Glynnis Collins and Nick Brozovic Ann Boisclair and Jeffrey Jens Ezra Levin Foundation Dan Deeb Wenche Nonaas and Bruce Karmazin Karen and Michael Folk GROUPS/PUBLIC ENTITIES David C. Eades Katrina and James Kotowski Rachel Fowler Champaign County Audubon Society Loretta and Wayne LaFave Jennifer and Bill Goran Susan Lannin and Albert Ettinger Carol Livingstone and Daniel Grayson Community Foundation For The Land Jean Flemma and John Epifanio Joan and Lex Lane Bruce Larson Gaylyn Grimm and Dorothy Grimm of Lincoln John B. Gilpin Catherine Grosso and Stephen Gasteyer Friends of the Rock River Sally McConkey Bruce Hannon Barbara Morgan and Charles Zukoski David Grothe Laborers Local Union #393 DiAnne and Terry Hatch Cora Musial Rudolf Habben Kane County Audubon Society Dixie and Gary Jackson Janise and Christopher Phillips Kathryn K. and Richard R. Harden Mackinaw Canoe Club Steve Jurgens Mary Wallace and Ray Plante Wendy Heller and M.J. Walker Middlefork Audubon Society Deborah and Stephen Rugg Susan and Edwin Herricks Annette and Charles Lansford Skip Hightshoe Northwest Illinois Audubon Society Diane and John Marlin Sheila and Jeremiah D. Sullivan William C. Sullivan Walter Hoffmann Sierra Club, Prairie Group Robert J. Moore Deanna Glosser and Marvin Hubbell The Conservation Foundation Carol and David Thomas Sharon and Jack Paxton Leo Van Munching Robert Hudson Tri-City Regional Port District Beverly and Thomas Rauchfuss Cindy Skrukrud and Tom Von Geldem Gail Snowdon and Philip Hult Vermilion Co. Conservation District Robeson Family Benefit Fund Shirley and Bill Walker Heidi Hurd and Michael Moore Annice Moses and Michael Rosenthal Susan Feldman and Pius Weibel Naomi and Eric Jakobsson GRANTORS Jane and David White Leslie Cooperband and Wes Jarrell Trent Shepard Christine Jenkins Environmental Integrity Project Cecily Smith and David Delaney Gretka and Ralph Wolfe Grand Victoria Foundation Pat and Harold Jensen Carol Goodall Wock Bryan Johnsrud Illinois EPA Sherrill and Richard Worthen River Sustainers $100 to $249 Karen Carney and Rob Kanter Joyce Foundation through the Alliance Gene Karpinski For The Great Lakes Anonymous River Stewards $500 to $999 Beverly and George Kieffer National Wildlife Federation Anonymous - in memory of Linda and R. Grear Kimmel New Belgium Brewery James R. Payne Jr. Joyce and Jim Knoblauch Maggie Bruns Norcross Wildlife Foundation, Inc. Jennifer Acosta Gregory Lambeth Ellyn and David Bullock Brad Allen Rockefeller Family Fund Janice Wilson Larson Glennie and Bill Hamel Marianne Alleyne Geoffrey Levin The Educational Foundation of America Erin Knowles and Cari Vanderpool Karen and Brian Anderson Stuart Levy The Lumpkin Family Foundation Betsy and Peter Kuchinke Linda Lee Erwin and Gilbert Keith Appler Ann and David Marriott The McKnight Foundation Charlotte and Walter Arnstein Robert J. McKim Marion McCarthy Walton Family Foundation Ann and Hal Barnhart Clare McCown Chad McKenzie Lorraine and Donald Crummey Emily Jenkins Donna and Lawrence Lanciotti Jean and Durango Mendoza Sam Cullop Chad Pregracke Dave Larsen Karen Metz and Pat Weatherhead Janet and Alan Curry Janet Elaine Rasmussen John Larson Bruce Michelson Bill Davenport Patty Riggins Walter Lembke Carla Caceres and Craig Milling Janet Davis Marise Robbins-Forbes and Guy Forbes Greg Leston Leslie and Ian Mitchell Claire and Brian Deal Elizabeth P. Rogers Michael Longo Jane and Walter Myers Mary Ellen and Jim Declue Ann and Bob Romadka Catherine and Jeremy Look Dorothy Neumann Chris Dees Matthew Russell Lisa Merrifield Randy Nyboer Paula and Dan Deneen Jeffrey Sanders Maureen Michael Julia and Terry O`Neill Victoria Pifalo and Kieran Donaghy Linda and Paul Schutt Jamie Micheletto Diane M. and Thomas W. O`Rourke Olivia Dorothy Dennis Schwank Scottie and Michael Miller Helen M. Parker Dennis Dreher Candy and John Scott Sarah and Matthew Miller Ann Flanagan-Petry and Joe Petry Karyl Dressen Ruth Wene and Tom Seals Katherine Mimnaugh Anne Phillips Duane T. Dust Beth Shirk Curtis Nesler Jacquetta and David Plath Dorothy and William Dwyer Betty Smelcer Vickie and Brian Nudelman Robin Sahner and Bruce Reznick Thomas Edwards Staci and David Smith Robert Olshansky Barbara and Tom Richardson Albert England Winton Solberg George W. Ordal Marlyn Rinehart Theresa and Bob Feller Mary Kay Solecki and John Taft Deborah Owen Marti and William Roberts Darwin Fields Bernadine and Bob Stake Lois Pausch Anne Robin, MD and Nancy Melin Debbie and Chuck Frank Rob Stanton Karen and Scott Pickard Leslie and Jim Rose Laura and Mike Frerichs Susan Stone John Popovics Ray Ruthenberg Beverly Friese Cynthia Swanson Everett Quigley John Rutherford Virginia and Edwin R. Gordon Steve Swearingen Donnagene Quivey Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Douglas Jones Illinois Prairie Community Foundation Kathy and Jonathan Sweedler Sheila Reynolds Phyllis and Robert Schwandt - George & Myra Gordon Fund Nina and Stewart Tarr Grace and Richard Rothrock Lisa Sechler and Stephen Dolan Elizabeth and Don Greeley Cheryl Tatum Violet and Paul Schroeder Mary and Bill Severinghaus Andy Gulya Christopher Taylor Dianne Schwarz Joyce and Elliott Slutzky Jill and John Gusmano Nancy and John Taylor Melissa Smith Lloyd Smith Robert M. Guthrie Dave Thornton Brian Stolt Hal Sprague Jill and Bob Hamann Laurel Toussaint and Tom Bik Marian Stone Nancy Stagg Janice Harrington Sandy Volk Jennifer Sublett Mary and Glenn Stech Fran Harty Wayne L. Wagner, Sr. Matthew Vernau Pnina and Gadi Steiner Virginia and Mike Henebry Ruth S. Walker Dana Walker William Stewart Ruth Hillyer Brian Wallen Adva Waranyuwat Danita and Randall Suhling Kay Hodson Diane and James Wardrop Doris Westfall Emily Svendsen Craig J. Holderness Emily S. and Robert Watts John Wierschem Bette Tambling Margaret and Charles Hollowell Sherry Weaver Beth Wohlgemuth Terri Treacy John Hughes Luann and William White Pola and Harry Triandis Steve Hurst Zuzanna Wieckowska Boneyard Clean-Up Jean and John Van Landingham Sharon Irish Sarah Wiseman A & R Mechanical Contractors Patricia Verstrat Deborah Jadhav Donald Wuebbles A & R Services, Inc. Tina Gunsalus and Michael Walker Darlene Jesse Joan and Ted Zernich B.K.S. Iyengar Yoga Institute of C-U Dennis Wandell Justin Johnson Berns, Clancy and Assoc., P.C. Judy Argentieri and Ben Watts Libby Johnston Members $1 to $49 Foth Infrastructure and Environment, LLC Brenda Welch John T. Jones Stan Adkins Illinois-American Water- Champaign District Beth Wentzel and Todd Ambs Judith M. Joy Amy Allen Kiwanis Club of Champaign County Lucy Whalley Barbara A. Kanter and Raymond Para Richard Atterberry Robeson Family Benefit Fund Rachel Whitaker and Stephen Wald Marilyn and David Kay Gretchen and Roger Batz Stark Excavating, Inc. Christopher Wilcock Lee Ann and Walt Kelly John Beck Jackie Wilcosz Susan and Ron Kiddoo Jean Belt Alex Winter-Nelson John Kilday Others Steven Benton Ferdinand Wipachit Duane Kimme Amazon Services LLC Jim Blaul Barbara Wysocki and Dwain Berggren Wes King Archer Daniels Midland Company Jane Block Linda Zimmerman Peggy Patten and Todd Kinney Caterpillar Foundation Laurine Brown Katie Zimmerman Gerri Kirchner Earth Share of Illinois Marian Huhman and David Buchner Louisette and R.T. Zuidema Philip J. Koerner Goodsearch Fran Caffee Antje and Edward Kolodziej Schnucks E-Scrip Program Tony Comerci Susan and Curtis Krock Tyco Electronics Friends $50 - $99 John Conklin Margaret and Ed Krol Anonymous Ann and Garland Conner Mame and John Kronenburger Mary Jo Adams Ramona Curry Volunteers Jennifer Hines and Robert Krumm Ahmed Ammar • Lucy Bannon • Lena Carlson • Walter Alspaugh Damaris Day Paul Kruty Terrance Hall • Jeff Horwitz • Reid Johnson Michael Ander Ann Deer Glennie and Larry Larimore Kelsey Larson • Tyler McPheters • Mary Arlis Bates Craig Eckert Cathlien M. Larson Katie Minmaugh • Danielle Sheppard • Amber Simpson Barbara Ashwood-Gegas and Christos Gegas Scott Elrick Robert Larson • Ira Wachtel • Evan Williamson Tim Bannon Christine Favilla Emily Laugesen Anna Barnes and David Riecks Linda and Leon Follmer Morris W. Leighton Board of Directors Ann Bergeron and Kevin Fahey Viktoria Ford Jon McNussen, President Jane and Raymond Leuthold Alice Berkson Brian and Katherine Fulton Eric Freyfogle, Secretary Nancy and Larry Littell Patricia Ryan and H. Michael Biscan Roberta and Harold Gambrel Michael Rosenthal, Treasurer Penni Livingston Margaret Bruns Mary A. Blair Ilona Gillan Julie and Daniel Long Clark Bullard Pamela J. Bowers George Gore Melanie Loots Dan Deeb Susan and Mark Bowman Mitchell Harris Barbara and John Lourance Charles Goodall Lois and Gerald D. Brighton Katie Davidson and Rick Hartom Jason Lindsey Bruce Loveless Carol Schmidt and Ed Brown John Hassett Chad McKenzie Lindell Loveless Martha Brown John Hegarty Sue and Phil Madigan Raymon M. Brown Shelly Hines and Jason Lake Staf f Linda Mante and David Smith Steve Buck James W. Howlett Glynnis Collins, Executive Director Lola and Paul Mayes Steph Adams, Communications/Membership Services Roy Campbell Barbara Jauhola Julie McMahon Traci Barkley, Water Resources Scientist Catherine Capel and Ken Smith Louise Johns David E. McNussen Elliot Brinkman, Water Resources Specialist Gretchen Knapp and Angelo Capparella Gwen Jones Brian Miller Robert Hirschfeld, Coalition Organizer Deborah Cavanaugh-Grant Eric Keeley Stacy James, Water Resources Scientist Brenda Molano and Mary Ann Feist Beth Chato Virgil Kemp Kim Knowles, Staff Attorney David Novak Donna Cline Nancy and Dennis Kern Vickie Nudelman, Operations Manager Howard Oneil Brian Perbix, Grassroots Organizer Thelma Collins Mary and Richard Klatt Robert L. Overturf Cecily Smith, Water Resources Specialist Ramona Cook Dorothy Koster Sigrid and Alan Pilgrim Lucy Bannon, Support Staff Nancy and Stephen Cox Karla M. Kraeszig Barbara Jones and Joel Plutchak Sarah Scott, Administrative Assistant Evan Craig Dick Ladzinski Prairie Rivers Network * Indicates in-kind donor. ** indicates in-kind and monetary donor. 1902 Fox Drive, Suite G, Champaign, IL 61820 217/344-2371 prairierivers.org Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our supporter recognition. We apologize for any errors and urge you to notify us of any corrections. 4 | 5

It All Started With Crawdads and Turtles

By cecily smith “smart, hardworking and effective” staff. Rob and Kar- Many of you know Rob Kanter as the writer and nar- en became Prairie Rivers Network members during Rob’s rator of Environmental Almanac, which runs as a com- first year as a volunteer, because they saw us as more than mentary on WILL-AM and a column in the Champaign an organization of ideas. They knew first hand how staff News-Gazette. What you may not know about Rob is that worked on-the-ground, how they “got things done with his fondest childhood memories include catching “craw- what they had.” dads” out of the creek across from his Rob Kanter and Friend suburban Cincinnati neighborhood, and As Prairie River Network members, Rob fishing with his mom, brother and sister and Karen also got to know the organiza- at their local county park. By “fishing,” tion through its history. Prairie Rivers Net- Rob means an outdoor activity that was work’s roots are in the hearts and minds of half-fishing and half sitting still while a committed group of residents, including his mother pulled fishhooks out of his Bruce and Patricia Hannon, who in the and his siblings’ clothes. 1970s succeeded in stopping a dam that would have flooded thousands of acres of As Rob continued to sharpen his angling Allerton Park. It’s a great story. skills, another Ohio youngster named Karen Carney was busy exploring the Cuyohoga River and other waters in her Rob also experienced first-hand Bruce’s hometown of Cleveland. Karen’s adven- ability to make things happen. A few years tures in the parks sparked her interest ago, Rob was chatting with Bruce about in the outdoors; during her teen years, an idea Bruce and Walt Robinson had for Karen volunteered to capture painted a writing project; something that would turtles for a research study. focus on the environment and be published on a regular basis. Was Rob interested in doing this? You bet! Six weeks Fast forward to 2001. Rob and Karen are married, with later, Bruce called to say the funding was in place, and the a son and daughter. One day, after seeing a presentation Environmental Almanac was born. about Prairie Rivers Network, Karen came home and told Rob “You’ve got to call them!” As a part-time English in- Last fall while attending our Annual Dinner, Rob and Kar- structor at the U of I, Rob had been looking for a way to en heard a challenge posed - if five new people joined our transition into environmental work. He did call; welcomed Bruce Hannon Friends of Illinois Rivers group, signaling by executive director Rob Moore and watershed organizer their ongoing commitment to donate at the $1,000 or more Marc Miller. Rob’s first assignment was editing the news- level annually, an anonymous donor would donate an ad- letter; he also assisted with annual dinners and river clean- ditional $5,000 to Prairie Rivers Network. Rob and Karen ups. Board President Jon McNussen was so impressed with joined other donors that night in helping us meet that chal- Rob’s continued dedication to Prairie Rivers Network that lenge. Rob says, “It seemed like a perfect opportunity to he invited Rob to join him at a National Wildlife Federation show how much we value the efforts of Prairie Rivers Net- Annual Meeting for state affiliates. Rob continues to vol- work as an organization, and Bruce as an individual.” unteer for PRN (currently he is co-captain of our Illinois Marathon - Run for Your Rivers team). Rob and Karen know that caring for our precious streams, wetlands and riverside forests springs from literally get- From the time Rob first walked into Prairie Rivers Net- ting your feet wet, whether you’re trying to catch scurrying work’s cluttered, but cozy McKinley Foundation office crawdads or watching painted turtles basking on a stream in the heart of campustown, he was bowled over by the boulder. //

WWW.PRAIRIERIVERS.ORG PRAIRIE RIVERS N ETWORK

Help Protect the Shawnee National Forest from a Strip Mine U.S. Forest Service Needs to Hear from You

By Brian Perbix Local residents and river enthusiasts from across the coun- in the Saline River, posing a threat not just to wildlife, but try recently spoke up for the Shawnee National Forest also to the local residents who rely on clean and healthy by submitting thousands of comments urging the Forest rivers for hunting, fishing and recreation. Service not to let Peabody Coal turn part of the Shaw- nee National Forest in southern Illinois into a strip mine. Now that the initial comment period is over, the Forest According to the Shawnee Forest Plan, the guiding land Service will begin the preparation of an Environmental use planning document for the Shawnee National Forest: Impact Statement. “Lands adjacent to streams and rivers are rich in biological diversity and especially important for recreation and wild- How can you help? life.” Go to our website and click on Take Action button to Perhaps that’s why everyone was so surprised last Decem- sign our petition. ber when the U.S. Forest Service announced it was consid- ering a proposed land swap (tinyurl.com/6sw6kxm) with There is still time to tell a subsidiary of Peabody along the Saline River in Gallatin the Forest Service to stop County, IL that would turn Shawnee National Forest land the swap, and make sure into a strip mine. this gem of the Shawnee Forest remains protected The 384 acres of Forest Service land Peadbody wants to forever. The future health strip mine includes over 50 acres of wetlands, and has high of the Saline River system quality mature forests that are home to federally endan- is truly at stake, and we gered Indiana and Gray Bats. Furthermore, the Illinois must act to protect high Natural History Survey has for the first time discovered quality habitat along rivers that the Saline River system is home to the endangered Fat to ensure clean water and Pocketbook mussel. Strip mining this unique natural area healthy communities for would destroy this crucial habitat and reduce water quality generations to come.//

Sign the petition at: prairierivers.org/Take-Action

BOARD OF DIRECTORS UPDATE

Welcome Ellyn Advocacy Award for environmental activism and teaches We are delighted to welcome new an earth care Sunday school class at her church. She and board member Ellyn Bullock. Ellyn her husband David are longtime members of Prairie Riv- runs a law practice, the Law Office ers Network and environmental advocates. They have three of Ellyn Bullock, in Champaign. She children, Kyle, Imy and Charlie. specializes in adoption, guardianship, and civil litigation. Thank You Chad and Dan It is with gratitude that we say good-bye to Dan Deeb of Ellyn was named Prairie Rivers Net- Chicago and Chad McKenzie of Leroy as board members. work Volunteer of the Year in 2001 and served on our We thank both of them for their service to Prairie Rivers board from 2002-2003. She recently received the YWCA Network.// 6 | 7

Study Shines Light on How to Stop Carp, Improve the Chicago River

By robert hirschfeld A highly-anticipated report clearly demonstrates that it is possible to separate the artificial connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River basins and pre- vent the transfer of invasive species through the Chicago River system.

Authored by the Great Lakes Commission and Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, “Restoring the Nat- ural Divide” (www.glc.org/caws/) re-envisions the Chi- cago River as a system which not only prevents the trans- fer of aquatic invaders such as Asian carp, but also better serves its functions of moving people and goods and managing stormwater, while improving water quality. The study was prompted by the urgent need to find a solu- tion to the ongoing problem of invasive species, includ- “Restoring the Natural Divide” offers detailed analysis on ing Asian carp. Strong evidence suggests that the threat of three possible separation scenarios and includes a wealth of Asian carp entering the Great Lakes is imminent and that data on the integration of each scenario with the region’s their potential to wreak ecological and economic havoc is water infrastructure, as well as an outline and timetable for real. implementation.

Local and Federal Governments currently spend upwards of $200 million per year to control invasive species in the Great Lakes. Ending the continuing threat of transfer of these aquatic invaders through the Chicago River system will be essen- tial to the region’s long-term eco- nomic well-being, and would com- plement a regional vision for river restoration, increasing the value of Chicago’s second waterfront.

“Restoring the Natural Divide” makes the case for separation at a time when Illinois leaders are rein- vesting in Chicago’s River, affirm- ing its place as a vital asset to the people of Illinois. Watch more at: tinyurl.com/7kwj5e9 //

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UPCOMING EVENTS//

Boneyard Clean-Up Chicago River Day 45 ways to celebrate April 14th May 12th Prairie rivers networks’ boneyardcreek.org www.chicagoriver.org/events/ 45th Anniversary chicago_river_day/ Earth Day prairierivers.org/45-for-45 April 22 55th Annual Des Plaines River Earth Day is a great opportunity to make a Canoe and Kayak Race Please Take our quick difference, educate yourself, and renew your May 20th 6-question survey commitment to being a good steward! www.canoemarathon.com/ Let us know what you are interested in prairierivers.org/articles/2012/03/ and how we are doing. It’s Our River Day earth-day-events/ We greatly value your input! Sept 15, 2012 www.surveymonkey.com/s/J8GDY5Z Run for Your Rivers Prairie Rivers Network’s Illinois Marathon 14th Annual Dinner Photo Attributes// April 27 & 28 Oct 5, 2012 Run, walk, or volunteer with us. Prairie Rivers Network, masthead

prairierivers.org/run Clean Water Act JASON LINDSEY, masthead, Annual Report www.JasonLindsey.com 40th Anniversary Oct 18, 2012

If you participate in a workplace giving campaign, You can earn money for Prairie Rivers Network while Prairie Rivers Network is the Illinois Affiliate of the look for ESI and designate Prairie Rivers Network to shopping - visit prairierivers.org for more info. National Wildlife Federation. receive your contributions.