DNR Memo
Today's Southern Illinoisan reveals the official position taken by IDNR concerning the budget cuts may not be the truth after all.

After repeated claims that the cuts in staff won't affect programs, this memo from one of the division chiefs within DNR makes clear that programs will be affected.

The memo said staff and budget reductions would affect a wide range of services including: Reduction in fish production; deer and wild turkey harvest reporting; chronic wasting disease surveillance; natural area stewardship (including eradication of invasive species); and monitoring, management and recovery of threatened and endangered species.

"The recent layoffs and proposed budget cuts seriously jeopardize ORC's and DNR's ability to administer and implement critical programs such as CREP (Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program); Illinois Rivers 20/20 and Farm Bill programs," the memo stated.

So much for the official line — and we still haven't heard the truth about cutbacks in the land management division which includes state parks.

Oh, and by the way, the Governor is probably set to announce more cuts in about 15 minutes when he makes his State of the State Address.