Western Whiteside County has long been known as a natural flyway for migratory birds. During fall and spring, we observe flocks making their way via the Mississippi River. Many species rely on the habitats of native plants for shelter, food, and rest as they make that journey. With urbanization and changing landscapes, much of this habitat has been lost.
But avid conservationists have a vision. After much discussion and planning, a dream is becoming a reality! Land has been donated to the Whiteside County Soil and Water Education Foundation. Currently, it is being developed into a natural prairie. Efforts are being made to build a Conservation Center for residents of Whiteside County, to showcase the importance of conservation to the local environment.
Volunteer Millers of de Immigrant Windmill will host this presentation at the Windmill Cultural Center, across from the authentic Dutch windmill, 111 Tenth Avenue, in Fulton, IL, on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. The program will start at 6:00 p.m.
Details as to the funding, development, and progress of this project will be shared. A time table with long term and short term goals will be outlined.
Dave Harrison (photographed) and Dean Huisingh will share their vision of this new development. Harrison is a retired Resource Conservationist, with experience in forestry, wildlife management, agronomy, wetlands, and prairie development. Huisingh has a special interest in preservation of rare, endangered, and threatened native plants.
This event is free and open to the public. The facility is accessible to persons with disabilities. Monthly programming is sponsored through a grant from the D. S. Flikkema Foundation.
For more information, visit the Windmill Cultural Center and de Immigrant Windmill Facebook page; visit Fulton Facebook page, www.cityoffulton.us; call 563-249-6115.