Illinois Administrative Code
Title 17 - CONSERVATION
Part 4000 - MANAGEMENT OF NATURE PRESERVES
Subpart A - GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 4000.150 - Master Plans

a) A master plan must be developed for each nature preserve. The master plan must address the preservation, protection, management, development, and use of the nature preserve, identify the nature preserve owner, the location and description of the nature preserve, and conditions of custody and access. The master plan must also identify the presence and location of high quality natural communities, threatened or endangered species, and other significant or notable natural features occurring on the preserve. Reserved rights, previously approved deviations from the rules approved under Section 4000.160, and other pertinent Commission resolutions should be referenced in the master plan.

b) A master plan must be compiled following a master plan handbook prescribed by the Commission or a master plan must consist of the proposal for dedication pursuant to 2 Ill. Adm. Code 2150, the instrument of dedication, and a management schedule, which cumulatively address the requirements of Section 4000.150(a). The management schedule must be approved by the owner of the nature preserve before being submitted to the Commission for approval. The Commission may approve the management schedule in whole or in part, with any exceptions stated in writing.

c) The management goals portion of the management schedule must address the following: the objective for establishing the preserve, the status of its natural features, the extent of any degradation, the amount of visitor use, any natural lands nearby, any threats to the integrity of the preserve, concluding with the overall management goals. Once the management goals portion of the management schedule has been approved it continues indefinitely unless revised, in contrast to the multi-year schedule which addresses specific management activities during a finite period of time. When the multi-year schedule approaches the end of such time period, a new schedule shall be prepared and, following the landowner's approval, shall be submitted to the Commission.

d) The owner and/or custodian may elect to prepare the master plan and any revisions thereto. Based upon the availability of staff and resources, the Commission may assist the owner with preparation of the master plan. If the owner and/or custodian do not elect to prepare the master plan, the Commission shall be responsible for arranging its preparation. The master plan and any revisions thereto shall take effect upon approval by the Commission and the owner.