Illinois NLRS Program and Project Narratives

This site features NGO partner program and project narratives, searchable by title, date, and categories. These narratives have been reported in the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) annual reports and updates. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all nutrient loss-related initiatives across Illinois.

The NLRS is a statewide, collaborative effort aimed at reducing the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus entering Illinois waterways. This page specifically highlights NGO-led efforts that have contributed to the strategy since 2023.

  • Conservation@Home: 2023-24 Update

    Dec 1, 2025 12:00 pm by Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Team2023-25 UpdateEducationNetworkingStormwaterTechnical Assistance

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    • Conservation@Home

    Initially developed by the Conservation Foundation, Conservation@Home encourages homeowners to establish forest preserve-friendly landscapes that minimize pollution and negative impacts on the environment while maximizing habitats for native species. University of Illinois Extension administers the program throughout the county and has connected with 279 residential properties and 47 school and community gardens since the creation of the program in 2016. The data and map demonstrate the reach of this program. 

     

    Conservation@Home

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    2023-24 Update 

    Conservation @ Home Residential Membership Breakdown 

     

    Applicants

    Certified 

    2023 

    72 

    43 

    2024 

    52 

    30 

    Total to Date 

    29 

    153 

     

    Relevant Data for 2023-24:

    • 1,425 volunteer hours on evaluations, outreach, and program development 
    • Promotional and education programs across Cook County to several partner organizations with 47 events for 1,977 participants 
    • 411 subscribers to the email newsletter with an average 63% open rate