Farmland in southern Illinois has some of the most productive soils in the world. Over the past twenty years, however, tens of thousands of acres of farmland have been converted to development. In a significant move to protect these valuable resources, a local farmer has partnered with HeartLands Conservancy to preserve a historic farm near Waterloo, Illinois.
Five generations of the Wittenauer family have farmed their Monroe County land near Waterloo and Valmeyer. For centuries, the high-quality soils have made them excellent for production. The Waterloo property also neighbors a farm that was preserved in 2014. The two farms together total more than 1,500 acres of protected farmland and historic woods.
Beyond farming, preserving this land also keeps picturesque views from the bluffs, including from nearby White Rock Nature Preserve, and preserves critical travel paths for wildlife like deer, bobcats, and turkeys.
“Farmland is being developed rapidly in the Metro East area,” said Mary Vandevord, CEO of HeartLands Conservancy. “Yet, it is crucial for our region’s economy, heritage, and many wildlife species and providing a place for rainwater to absorb. I’m grateful for and inspired by forward-thinking people like Delbert. Our entire region will benefit because he took action.”
I feel such great satisfaction with our accomplishment of establishing our conservation [agreement]. It just makes me feel content and warm inside to know our farmland that supported many and brought much joy will be intact for years to come.
Delbert and Sandra Wittenauer holding a conservation easement boundary sign after finalizing the agreement in December 2024.
Conservation Agreement
The preservation of the Wittenauer farm was made possible through a conservation agreement with HeartLands Conservancy. Agreements like this preserve the land as a working farm or open space. The landowner retains ownership and can continue farming, grazing, hunting, managing, and enjoying the land. Depending on the terms, farm-related structures can be built or replaced.
“We work with willing landowners to conserve southern Illinois’ special places. Sometimes, families conserve farmland that will remain in private ownership, such as this one. Other times, we conserve wildlife habitats and establish trails. We also work with local villages and communities, like Edwardsville, Belleville, and Swansea, to ensure that local parks and access to nature are also a priority,” stated Vandevord.
Need for more conservation
The 600-acre farm now joins 62 other lands in thirteen counties in southern Illinois conserved by HeartLands Conservancy. “Many of these areas have less than 3% of the land protected for farming, wildlife habitat, and connecting to nature. We are seeing landowners interested in partnering with us to change that because they know how important their legacy is to their community.”
Is conservation right for you or someone you know? Learn more about conservation options here or contact Anna McAtee at an*********@*******************cy.org or call her at (618) 566-4451 ext 23.
