SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) on Tuesday announced it’s launching a new website: Conservation Inclusive Construction and Development Archive (CICADA).

A press release says it’s an online resource that engages the public and private sectors in habitat protection, restoration, and biodiversity conservation through voluntary actions.

IDNR says it serves as a one-stop-shop for residential and private landowners, plus commercial and industrial sectors. There, they can find online guidance and ideas to make their properties or development projects more wildlife-friendly.

“With approximately 97% of land in Illinois in private ownership, it will take everyone working together to help address these challenges,” said IDNR Director Colleen Callahan. “From adding small pollinator gardens and nest boxes in backyards, to improving habitat on larger private properties, to implementing environmentally-responsible construction practices, CICADA has something for everyone to engage in habitat conservation.”

IDNR says it partnered with The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center, a division of Lewis and Clark Community College, and 2WAV software developers for the project.

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