On Wednesday, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources awarded the Champaign County Forest Preserve District a grant to support the expansion of the River Bend Forest Preserve.
“This grant award allows the Forest Preserve to spend up to $1,125,000 to expand River Bend without any required local match,” said a statement from the CCFPD.
According to the CCFPD website, River Bend currently spans over 280 acres and opens at 7 a.m. year-round, weather permitting.
River Bend, located in Mahomet, Illinois, contains 2.5 miles of trails, which receive about 500 visitors weekly in the summer months, and two lakes — one of which is the county’s largest lake and features an ADA-accessible fishing destination with boat access.
“Acquisition in this area fits well with Forest Preserve goals to look for conservation opportunities to protect river corridors and expand existing preserves,” the statement said.
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As a stipulation of the grant program, the acquired areas will have limited development to protect wildlife habitats. However, trails for public access and a kayak launch are currently planned.
“The Forest Preserves strive to connect people with nature,” the statement said. “Funding from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources … (offers) more opportunities for residents to connect with the natural world.”
