The recent decision by the state of Illinois to spend $73 million to preserve the only undeveloped stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline is a valuable investment in environmental sustainability and community well-being.
As urban development continues to impact natural habitats, protecting this shoreline becomes increasingly important. The Great Lakes are the largest freshwater systems in the world. It is critical to utilize these funds to safeguard the diverse ecosystems, so future generations can experience the natural beauty of Lake Michigan.
Preserving undeveloped shorelines helps maintain natural buffers that can absorb storm surges and mitigate flood risks.
These ecosystems play a crucial role in filtering pollutants and providing habitat for various species, thereby supporting biodiversity. The long-term economic benefits, including tourism, fishing and outdoor activities, cannot be overlooked either.
Courtney Pincuspy, a sophomore biology major, believes conservation is critical given the impact humans have on wildlife.
“I think (humans have) taken up so much space, and we need to conserve all the space that we aren’t taking up, and even the space that we are taking up, make it a little bit more welcoming to all the animals and creatures and life that we have absolutely banish(ed), basically, from our area. We got to conserve them and let them back in,” Pincuspy said.
The Illinois Beach State Park in Zion holds about 10% or 6.5 miles of Illinois’ Lake Michigan shoreline but can erode up to 100 feet per year according to the state’s Capital Development Board.
In order to decrease the erosion, the state of Illinois plans to build 22 breakwater structures along 2.2 miles of shoreline. This will protect the beach while maintaining it for human and animal use and natural habitats for local wildlife.
“Lake Michigan, especially in Chicago, definitely needs to be preserved where that urban area is super important because we did take up all that urban area for ourselves,” Pincuspy said. “It’s important that we keep it, and the space we haven’t taken up, you have to keep it pristine for the other organisms and life that uses that area.”
The financial commitment to this project reflects a recognition of the value of nature.
In a time when many regions are focused on rapid development at the expense of environmental health, Illinois is focused on the trend by prioritizing conservation. This initiative sends a powerful message about the essential balance between progress and preservation, and should prompt other states and communities to consider similar investments in their own natural landscapes.
Ultimately, this commitment is not just about protecting a stretch of shoreline; it is about ensuring that we honor our responsibility to cherish and sustain our environment for the health and happiness of all who call Illinois home – furry and feathered friends included.
