Illinois Administrative Code
Title 17 - CONSERVATION
Part 4010 - REGISTER OF LAND AND WATER RESERVES
Subpart A - GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 4010.150 - Eligible Lands and Waters
Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 12, March 22, 2024
a) Eligibility of lands and waters for registration is determined by the Commission. Only land supporting natural heritage resources or archaeological resources of statewide significance shall be considered for eligibility. Developed, cultivated, or landscaped land does not qualify unless it has been committed to a program of restoration management designed to return the land to a condition supporting significant natural heritage resources.
b) Lands and waters eligible for registration include the following:
Category I areas - high quality remnants of the original natural communities of Illinois
Category II areas - habitats of State listed endangered species of animals or plants
Category III areas - relic species habitat
Category IV areas - outstanding representatives of Illinois' geologic diversity
Category V areas - restorations of the original natural communities of Illinois or relocated populations of endangered or threatened species of animals or plants
Category VI areas - lands or waters supporting unusual concentrations of wildlife and other unique natural areas
Category VII areas - outstanding streams, rivers, and lakes;
c) Public entities are encouraged to dedicate as Illinois Nature Preserves lands and waters that are classified as Category I areas - high quality remnants of the original natural communities of Illinois. Registration of Category I areas is allowed only upon unanimous approval of the members present at a meeting of the Commission.