A World of Wonder Awaits

The Lake Plain Coalition represents a groundbreaking model of collaborative conservation—a self-organized alliance of 20+ organizations working across state lines to protect one of North America's rarest ecosystems. Preserving this land means caring for native plant and animal species, reducing invasive species, and advocating for its care and protection.

This isn't just a beautiful place to visit; it's a critical ecosystem that protects drinking water for 8.5 million people, provides refuge for globally rare species, and offers surrounding communities a chance to discover the extraordinary hiding in plain sight. Called by wonder, driven by purpose, the Lake Plain Coalition works to ensure this irreplaceable landscape continues to thrive for generations of curious explorers and dedicated stewards

The Lake Plain Coastal Preserves protect the last remaining dune and swale system in Illinois—a living, breathing landscape that has been migrating along Lake Michigan's shore for nearly 4,000 years. Here, both southern and northern relic species thrive just miles from industrial corridors, while over 930 plant species and 310 bird species create a biodiversity hotspot that rivals much larger wilderness areas.

The Lake Plain is made up of 6 types of land and water.

Prairie

Expanses of native grasses and wildflowers that once covered much of the Midwest.

Savanna

Open woodlands where scattered trees create a mosaic of sun and shade, supporting both prairie plants in the openings and woodland species beneath the canopy.

Did you know? In the Lake Plain's "swales" between ancient beach ridges, these wetlands help protect drinking water for 8.5 million people while supporting some of the region's rarest species.

Foredune

The first line of sandy hills that form along the Lake Michigan shoreline, constantly shaped by wind and waves. These dynamic features protect inland areas from storm surge while providing specialized habitat for plants and animals adapted to the challenging conditions of shifting sand, salt spray, and intense sun.

Wetland

Think of this as nature's water treatment systems where specially adapted plants filter pollutants and slow flooding while providing critical habitat for everything from migrating birds to amphibians. The Wetlands of the Lake Plain Coastal Preserves have been designated as internationally important by the Ramsar Convention.

Did you know? These transitional spaces serve as critical habitat for many bird species and demonstrate how diverse plant communities can coexist in the same landscape.

Lake/Beach

The dynamic shoreline where Lake Michigan meets land, constantly reshaping the coast through wave action, wind, and seasonal ice.

A Place to Call Home

The Lake Plain isn’t just a home to nearby residents. Through careful conservation and environmental protection, these animals and plants (and many more!) call the area home.

NOTEWORTHY FLORA AND FAUNA OF THE LAKE PLAIN

HOW WE CARE

Prescribed Burns

Fire is medicine for prairie and savanna ecosystems—a natural process that clears away accumulated debris, releases nutrients into the soil, and gives native plants the competitive edge they need to flourish. Each burn is conducted by trained professionals under precise weather conditions, keeping this ancient ecosystem healthy for future generations.

Removal of Invasive Species

Invasive plants like purple loosestrife, reed canary grass, and buckthorn didn't evolve here, so they lack the natural checks and balances that keep native species in harmony. Our removal efforts—from hand-pulling small infestations to targeted treatments of established populations—create space for the 930+ native plant species that belong here.

Ecological Monitoring

Ecological monitoring of the flora and fauna of the Lake Plain helps the Lake Plain Coalition make sound management decisions. The Coalition works together by sharing data and resources to conserve the vital natural resources of this ecological complex.