Understanding Conservation Districts in Illinois

​The state of Illinois' McHenry County Conservation District is responsible for the management of approximately 25,800 acres of open lands. These lands function as wildlife habitats designed for preservation and educational purposes while also providing Illinois residents and visitors to the state with a range of recreational opportunities. The district consists of more than 30 sites available for public use, including over 150 miles of hiking and cycling trails, 36 miles of horseback riding trails, 25 fishing sites, and numerous locations for camping, canoeing, picnics, and more. The McHenry County Conservation District is also replete with locations perfect for wildlife viewing, many of which can be found at the almost 20 state nature preserves.

Conservation districts are codified under several Illinois statutes that were passed following positive public referendums. These districts operate with a series of special objectives, which include the acquisition of new lands via purchase, lease, gift, or easement. Once a conservation district has acquired a parcel of land, owners are tasked with preserving and maintaining the various habitats and species comprising the area. Landowners must also maintain relevant manmade structures, such as roadways and pathways.

While some portions of conservation districts are closed to the public, others are dedicated to public education and recreation, which may generate revenue for further investment in the open spaces and wild lands.

Additional funding for districts such as the McHenry County Conservation District is derived from an annual tax levy, which can be raised to one-tenth of one percent of the land's assessed valuation. Valuations are outlined in the county budget and based on public hearings that allow for input from citizens. Additional funding comes from federal and state grants, including recreational and open space grants.

Various conservation district regulations and processes are defined by the State of Illinois Conservation District Act, which describes open lands as an "area of land or water, the preservation or the restriction of development...of which would...enhance the conservation of natural or scenic resources." Legislators may suggest an open land as a conservation district for several reasons, such as protecting a natural stream or promoting soil health. Lands may also be nominated for conservation based on their outdoor recreation value. Per the Conservation District Act, a district's boundaries must be co-terminus with those of the county and exist within the metropolitan planning region.

As of 2025, the McHenry County Conservation District is one of five such districts in the state. The Boone County Conservation District is located in Belvidere and consists of multiple conservation areas, as well as green spaces such as O.O. Stimes Memorial Park and Elmhurst Chicago Stone Wetland. District programming ranges from hunting programs to summer camps. The Macon County Conservation District, meanwhile, provides a depth of youth programming in addition to comprehensive deer herd management efforts. 

The Putnam County Conservation District consists of five wild-land parcels known for their unique bird-watching opportunities. The district centers on the Natural Lands Area, a 270-acre parcel of land that features camping sites, picnic areas, and numerous trails. Finally, the Vermilion County Conservation District provides residents and visitors with access to four county parks: Heron County Park, Lake Vermillion County Park, Kennekuk County Park, and the Forest Glen Preserve.

Jack Franks

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