Protecting and preserving natural land and water is the best way to ensure we all have clean air and water now and in the future.

Natural Land Institute (NLI) serves as a regional environmental land trust and accepts donations of properties, buys land, manages natural areas, and helps landowners establish legal agreements (conservation easements) that permanently protect the conservation values of their land. NLI owns 21 private preserves and holds more than 50 conservation easements.

Nygren Wetland Preserve, located west of Rockton, is the largest preserve that is privately owned by NLI and has public access with a wildlife overlook (3714 W. Rockton Rd.) and the 2.5 mile Dianne Nora Nature Trail that is open year round for hiking, snowshoeing and skiing.

As a private non-profit land conservation organization, NLI has protected more than 16,000 acres of natural land since 1958. Land preservation efforts are focused in 12 northern Illinois counties.

To find our more become a member and receive the Land & Nature newsletter and the Notes from the Field, as well as news and information about events throughout the year. The easiest way to join is by signing up online for the monthly membership or an annual membership level is also available.

To get involved you can call or email our office and let us know what your interests are. Visit the volunteer page on our website to read about ongoing weekly and monthly stewardship opportunities. Volunteers are also needed for events, as well as the Marketing & Membership and Education committees.