Illinois Department of Natural Resources Honors Outstanding Volunteers for 2025
Springfield, IL – August 26, 2025 – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is proud to announce the recipients of its prestigious Outstanding Volunteer Awards for 2025. This year’s honorees were recognized for their exceptional dedication, tireless efforts, and significant contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Illinois’ natural resources and recreational opportunities.
The IDNR relies heavily on the commitment and passion of its volunteers to carry out vital conservation work, support educational programs, and maintain the state’s beautiful parks and natural areas. The annual Outstanding Volunteer Awards ceremony serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to these individuals whose generosity with their time and talents makes a tangible difference across Illinois.
The 2025 awardees represent a diverse group of individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment in various capacities, from hands-on habitat restoration and trail maintenance to youth education and public outreach. Their collective impact spans across numerous IDNR sites and initiatives, underscoring the breadth of volunteer engagement throughout the state.
A spokesperson for the IDNR expressed profound appreciation for the volunteers, stating, “The dedication and hard work of our volunteers are absolutely invaluable to the IDNR. They are true stewards of Illinois’ natural heritage, and these awards are a small token of our immense gratitude for their selfless service. Each recipient has gone above and beyond, contributing significantly to our mission of conserving and managing Illinois’ natural, recreational, and cultural resources for the benefit of all. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the positive impact they have made.”
While the specific details of each volunteer’s contributions will be highlighted in individual recognitions, the overarching theme among this year’s honorees is a deep-seated love for the outdoors and a genuine desire to give back to their communities. Their efforts often involve working in challenging conditions, investing personal resources, and inspiring others to become involved in conservation.
The IDNR encourages all Illinois residents to consider volunteering their time and skills to support the state’s natural resources. Opportunities are available across a wide range of interests and skill levels, offering a rewarding way to connect with nature, learn new skills, and contribute to a vital cause. Further information on volunteer opportunities with the IDNR can be found on the department’s official website.
This recognition of the 2025 Outstanding Volunteers serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role that community involvement plays in safeguarding Illinois’ precious natural and recreational assets for generations to come.
IDNR recognizes 2025 outstanding volunteers of the year
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