The Department of Natural Resources is touting its new program, CICADA - not the invasive bug whose shell is left behind on trees and other hard surfaces, but a program aimed a better land and wildlife management.

DNR Deputy Director Rachel Torbert on the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday told Regional Radio News this is an online resource that aims to engage the public and private sectors in habitat protection, restoration, and biodiversity conservation through voluntary actions.

According to Torbert, the information in the guide is very in-depth and covers everything from short, fun-to-read introductions and “how-to” conservation to habitat management guidance documents, as well as more in-depth, technical documents. 

Users also will be linked to assistance programs for landowners, conservation tax-deductible donation opportunities through the Illinois Conservation Foundation, and much more. Torbert points out, the CICADA website also features a project showcase page where habitat-friendly projects can be submitted by the public for consideration and viewed by website visitors to provide inspiration and share ideas. Information also is provided on how to certify habitat projects with various organizations. 

IDNR partnered with The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center, a division of Lewis and Clark Community College, and 2WAV software developers for the project. Funding was provided through the Illinois Wildlife Preservation Fund dedicated to preserving, protecting, perpetuating, and enhancing non-game wildlife in the state.    

Visit cicada-idnr.org for more information.