Chris Benda
Conserving the special places of southern Illinois before they are lost forever
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Hike the Regions Trails this Fall & Winter
Sign up for Jingle Hike Challenge »
Wildlife & Historic Farms Need a Boost
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Upcoming Events
We host numerous ways to get involved with nature, connect with others in the region, and lend a hand. Choose a favorite activity or discover something new.
2026 Jingle Hike Challenge Registration
2026 Jingle Hike Challenge Registration
Poag Sand Prairie Restoration Volunteer Stewardship Day
Poag Sand Prairie Restoration Volunteer Stewardship Day
Exploration Garden Volunteer Stewardship Day and Tree Planting Workshop
Exploration Garden Volunteer Stewardship Day and Tree Planting Workshop
Latest News
Finding Purpose in the Places We Love
When Paula Homan retired, she knew she wanted to spend her...
Every Child Deserves a Place to Explore
Some of the best childhood memories aren't planned....
Local Water Quality Projects Showcase During Tour in Highland
Highland, Illinois — What does it take to keep a lake...
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What We Do
HeartLands Conservancy conserves wildlife habitat, historic family farms, clean air and water, and access to nature for a thriving southern Illinois.
Explore
We create, restore, and maintain public parks, trails, and nature preserves across a 36-county area in southern Illinois.
Our goal is to provide publicly accessible spaces for recreation, education, and appreciation of nature.
Exploration Garden at Swansea Clinton Hills Conservation Park
Less than 5% of land in Illinois is conserved.
We’re off to a great start, but there’s so much more to do.