Chicago City Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is actively engaging with legislators and stakeholders regarding its Spring 2025 legislative agenda as the 104th General Assembly commences. The department plans to provide weekly updates on its initiatives and other pertinent information.

Despite winter conditions, DNR officials have conducted site visits to properties under their management. In early January, several state representatives and a senator toured DNR sites in Galena. The department encourages interested parties to arrange visits to parks and historic sites.

In wildlife news, the DNR reports that cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, appear to have peaked during the holiday season but continue to affect waterfowl in Illinois. Recent die-offs have been noted among ducks in Chicago, with Canadian geese being the most affected species. Wildlife biologists are testing birds from 16 locations in Northern Illinois. The DNR is collaborating with the Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Department of Agriculture (DOA) for monitoring and public guidance.

For those interested in careers focused on nature conservation, the DNR offers various job opportunities ranging from law enforcement roles to positions for wildlife biologists and procurement experts.

Contact information for members of the DNR legislative team is provided for further inquiries: Ashley Rubino at ashley.rubino@illinois.gov, Kevin Romo at kevin.romo@illinois.gov, Jamie Reynolds at jamie.reynolds@illinois.gov, and Kelly Kupris at kelly.kupris@illinois.gov.