CHICAGO – Wetlands, like marshes and swamps, are a key part of Illinois’ natural landscape and serve as a critical rest stop for migrating ducks and geese. That makes wetlands an important part of the state’s outdoor recreation industry and economy as waterfowl hunting season runs from November through mid-January through much of the state.
“Waterfowl hunting is big business in Illinois, but it wouldn’t be that way without the many wetlands that dot our state providing a pristine backdrop for late fall and early winter hunting,” said Randy Smith, Illinois River project director for The Nature Conservancy. “Without these wetlands, less money will be spent at small town diners, gas stations and outfitters, which hurts rural economies across the state.”
According to a 2022 report issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, duck hunters spend as much as $1.6 billion nationwide at small businesses throughout the hunting season on things like gas, meals and ammunition. A 2016 study by the University of Illinois found that for every duck or goose harvested in Illinois, $453 is generated for the local economy.
Wetlands also play a key role in absorbing and filtering nutrients and sediments, as well as reducing erosion and preventing flooding.
“Wetlands come in all shapes and sizes, from swampy to dry and grassy or brushy and even forested, but they all play incredibly important roles for nature, including acting as a nature-based solution to filter runoff from farm fields and providing a habitat for insects, amphibians and migrating songbirds and waterfowl,” said TNC Illinois Executive Director Georgie Geraghty. “Unfortunately, this vital ecosystem is under threat after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling early last year removed federal protections for some wetlands and small streams.”
Illinois introduced legislation in the spring of 2024 to ensure these wetlands remain protected but was not acted on before the Illinois General Assembly adjourned in November. Illinois has already lost 90% of its wetlands since the 1800s and can’t afford to lose more. That’s why The Nature Conservancy, along with several other conservation organizations, are encouraging the Legislature to take up the issue in the new year and restore protections that have existed for decades and protect wetlands and the nature-based and economic benefits they bring to small towns throughout the state.
“We’re hopeful lawmakers can get their ducks in a row during the next legislative session to protect wetlands, which is a win for both people and nature,” Geraghty said.
***
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, TNC works to create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. Learn more online at nature.org/Illinois and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.
