Western Illinois Nature Group was created to find and purchase a forested property in west central Illinois to accomplish our goals. We seek the financial support and encouragement of area communities and organizations, as well as the dedication of our membership, to preserve a beautifully wooded area for enjoyment well beyond this century. The generosity of corporate and private foundations and local businesses is essential.

Our Membership year is April 1-March 30

Renewing your membership to WING's Blackthorn Hill has never been easier and your donation can go further! Membership is a minimum of $30 per family. Use the Donate button above to become a member or renew membership.

Renew when you attend our ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING!

You are cordially invited to WING's Annual meeting for members who support Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve. You can renew your $30 membership dues annually at this meeting, on our website or Facebook Page or by mailing a check to WING, c/o L Wright, 1678 Oriole Drive, Galesburg, IL 61401.

When: Sunday, March 19 at 1pm

Where: The Knights of Columbus Hall, 1556 E. Fremont St. Galesburg, IL 61401

What: Come vote on board members, hear about the budget and plans, but most fun, hear our guest speaker and learn about Ticks in Illinois. Light refreshments served.

Who: Jennifer Wilson

Jennifer works with the Illinois Lyme Association, an effort to promote the awareness and treatment of Lyme disease spread throughout Illinois, but especially for our area.

Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP)

October through December, if someone is parked in the IRAP parking space in the parking lot, an archery deer hunter is on the property hunting. This pays our bills. Please be safe and respectful. Wear bright colored clothing and stay quiet please. Only IRAP authorized hunters are allowed to hunt on this property and only according to IRAP rules and regulations. Violators will be turned in to the authorities.

Click on IRAP on the left menu here, or check out their website to learn more.

www.dnr.illinois.gov/conservation/irap

Legacy information

Consider leaving a bequest to Western Illinois Nature Group (WING) which owns and operates Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve to keep this local jewel thriving for future generations. Find out more here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/10KUGYngBquWKJV-H75EnpJxf2Q-xW1iA/view?usp=sharing

and here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10KUGYngBquWKJV-H75EnpJxf2Q-xW1iA/view?usp=sharing

Email us at blackthornhill@gmail.com .

Water: Our water is shut off for the winter. The state asks that we post this notice for 7 days. Water will be turned on and treated after the threat of frost in the spring. https://drive.google.com/file/d/181H_GG1V6-95wY-zE9u0FhQGa_cQ25ry/view?usp=share_link