IDNR Honors 2025 Outstanding Volunteers for Conservation and Historic Preservation (Springfield, IL) – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has honored eleven individuals and organizations as its 2025 Outstanding Volunteers of the Year for their contributions to conservation, education, and historic preservation.
Honorees include longtime site interpreters, museum volunteers, safety instructors, and community organizations supporting state parks and natural areas.
IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie praised the awardees for their dedication to preserving natural and cultural resources while enhancing experiences for visitors across Illinois.
Honorees:
Harl Jones, Highland – Volunteering at Lincoln’s New Salem since 2012, Jones often interprets 1830s church services and classroom lessons for visitors. He is key to the annual Candlelight Walk, keeping buildings lit, and also donates his time in winter at the Vandalia State House.
Joan Wientjes, Metropolis – A Fort Massac volunteer for more than two decades, Wientjes serves as treasurer of the Friends of Fort Massac. She has helped organize major events and leads children’s activities at the park’s annual October encampment.
Jim and Melissa Blood, Springfield – The couple has spent over ten years assisting with the Illinois State Museum’s geology and zoology collections, cataloging thousands of fossil specimens and supporting major research projects.
Art Schuetz, Highland – With more than 50 years as a hunter education instructor, Schuetz continues to teach safety classes, particularly at the Highland Pistol and Rifle Club, where he co-founded its program. He also helps with IDNR boater education courses.
Michael Toohey, Ottawa – Since 2023, Toohey has volunteered with the Starved Rock Foundation, staffing the visitor center’s bookstore, serving on the foundation board, and representing the group at local outreach events.
Warbler Ridge Champions, Coles County – This volunteer group began in 2013 with efforts to protect a historic cemetery and has since grown into hundreds of members maintaining 1,300 acres of conservation land along the Embarras River.
Franklin Creek Conservation Association, Franklin Grove – Founded in 1981, the FCCA was the state’s first volunteer group dedicated to revitalizing state-owned land. Volunteers raised funds for a reconstructed 1847 grist mill and continue to lead restoration projects at Franklin Creek State Natural Area.
Rock River Trail and Horseman Association, Dixon – Members have built and maintained amenities at Franklin Creek, including an equestrian arena, campground, and trails. They regularly assist IDNR staff with storm cleanup and site restoration.
Susan Lutton, Carbondale – As treasurer of the Friends of Giant City State Park, Lutton has improved financial management, strengthening the group’s ability to provide support for park initiatives.
Dave Glacinski, Lexington – A volunteer at Starved Rock for the past three years, Glacinski contributes to trail maintenance, graffiti removal, and visitor services, always greeting guests with enthusiasm and helpful guidance.
Traci Brandenburg and the Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Dundee – Hosting field-day safety events and conservation programs, the foundation has trained more than 2,000 professionals and engages in habitat restoration and wildlife studies that influence state policy.
IDNR Honors 2025 Outstanding Volunteers for Conservation and Historic Preservation
