Openlands serves as an open space land acquisition consultant, providing technical assistance to local government entities that own and manage property in northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region.

Read more: Land Acquisition and Planning

A conservation easement—a voluntary agreement between a landowner and a qualifying organization that permanently limits uses of the land to protect its conservation values—is one of many legal tools available to preserve land. Property receives protection but remains in private ownership, under private control.

Read more: Conservation Easements

Restoration of native Illinois landscapes is sometimes seen as returning the landscape to pre-settlement conditions, looking back at the way things were. But restoration is really about protecting our future with an environment that supports and enhances our needs and lifestyles.

Read more: Wetland Restoration