It presents an extraordinary opportunity to make 480 miles of the regions streams and lakes safe for canoeing and kayaking. The plan proposes 174 access and portage sites on ten of the region's waterway, the majority of which are already established or need only minor improvements. A key action recommendation of the plan is to form a water trail committee for each water trail to orchestrate the implementation, management, and maintenance of trails that require action by more than one jurisdiction. NIPC, Openlands Project, and the Illinois Paddling Council have committed to this major step towards implementation and have begun forming water trail committees, creating initial agendas, and attending the meetings. Approximately 660,000 acres of land in the Chicago region are at high risk of being developed in the next 10 years threatening wildlife habitats, recreational opportunities and the overall quality of life.
Similar threats exist throughout Illinois.
Communities are struggling to find ways to allow development without loosing our treasured open lands. Answers are urgently needed. Fortunately, there are now many tools available to park and forest preserve districts to save this land. A district can approach a landowner and negotiate a voluntary sale of the property. This may be an effective tool if the owner is willing and the district has the necessary funds available.