SPRINGFIELD, IL - Today, Illinois State Senate passed legislation sponsored by State Senator Michael Frerichs (D-Champaign) to create the Institute for Natural Sciences and Sustainability at the University of Illinois. The institute will house the four scientific surveys.

"This change is a long time in the making," said Senator Frerichs. "This new institute will allow the surveys expand their areas of study by collaborating with many other research institutions throughout the University."

The University of Illinois will be receiving $15.8 million in funding for the surveys. The legislation will make it easier to forge collaborations and tap into other academically-oriented funding sources the surveys currently do not utilize.

"Our expertise in developing environmentally benign strategies for using Illinois' water and energy resources is also a strong plus for the University, and easier access to the University's expertise in these areas will enhance the Surveys' missions," said Dr. Shilts, Chief of the Illinois State Geological Survey, citing an example.

The oversight for four state scientific surveys, the State Geological Survey, State Natural History Survey, State Water Survey, and Waste Management and Research Center, will be shifted from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to the University of Illinois. The surveys are already based at the University and this change just puts them under the administrative umbrella of the University. The University and state surveys believe this will improve the effectiveness of both institutions.

"Part of Rachel Carson's book, 'Silent Spring', which kicked off the modern environmental movement, is dedicated to the Illinois Natural History Survey's work towards documenting the ravages of pesticide spraying in Illinois in an effort to stem the first Japanese Beetle invasion in the mid 1950's." said Dr. William Shilts. "I am hoping that by coming to the University, we will be able to bring the impacts of that kind of research mission to the campus."

The State Geological Survey studies many topics including the state's minerals, coastline geology, coal and gas resources, wetland geology, and earthquake history. The State Natural History Survey studies the state's biological resources. Its mission is to "investigate and document the biological resources of Illinois and other areas, and to acquire and provide natural history information that can be used to promote the common understanding, conservation, and management of these resources."

The State Water Surveys monitor the amount of dangerous chemicals in our water, highland flood hazard areas, and measure the water supply. The Waste Management and Research Center is a leader in preventing pollution and natural resource conservation. The center completes research on these topics and releases their findings to reduce hazardous wastes and preserve resources.

"This has been one of my priorities since I took office last year and I'm glad to see that we are finally making some progress," said Senator Frerichs. "Hopefully, the House will pass this legislation and move it to the Governor, because the surveys and the University are excited about the possibility of this new institute."

Senate Bill 970 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.