Northern Illinois University informed the Staff of Lorado Taft Field Campus that we will be closing operations on December 31, 2024. This leaves a massive hole in the outdoor education needs of so many thousands of children, and shutters a historic piece of Illinois history to deteriorate into the woods. The educators, maintenance, and kitchen staff alike, absolutely love the opportunity to make the wonders of the outdoors come to life for students around the state. Conference groups with visitors from world wide will miss out on the beauty of the Rock River Valley. We are asking you to support Lorado Taft in it's separation from NIU, and to place it as an Independent Outdoor Education Center. A draft bill is attached for your review. Thank you.

 

 

 

 

 No. [XXXX]? Act to Establish the Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Facility as an Independent State Facilit

 

Section 1: Title This Act shall be known as the "Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Independence Act

 

Section 2: Purpose The purpose of this Act is to remove the Lorado Taft facility from the governance of Northern Illinois University and to establish it as an independent state-run outdoor education facility to enhance educational opportunities in environmental science, outdoor leadership, and experiential learning

 

Section 3: Definitions

 

Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Facility: The property and facilities located at 1414 N River Rd. Oregon, IL 61061, currently affiliated with Northern Illinois University

 

Outdoor Education Facility: A facility dedicated to providing educational programs focused on outdoor skills, environmental stewardship, and leadership training

 

Section 4: Transition of Governance 

 

The Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Facility shall be transferred from the Northern Illinois University system to the State of Illinois 

 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) shall assume governance and operational responsibility for the facilities 

 

A transition plan shall be developed by IDNR in collaboration with current staff and stakeholders to ensure a smooth transfer of operations, including the retention of existing staff where possible 

 

Section 5: Establishment of Programs 

 

The newly established Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Facility shall offer programs including but not limited to 

 

Environmental education 

 

Outdoor survival skills 

 

Leadership training 

 

Team-building exercises 

 

Conservation initiatives 

 

The facility shall prioritize partnerships with schools, community organizations, and other educational institutions to enhance outreach and participation.

 

Section 6: Funding

 

The State of Illinois shall allocate funds for the operation and maintenance of the Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Facility, with additional funding opportunities pursued through grants and partnerships.

 

A fee structure for program participation shall be established to ensure accessibility while supporting operational cost.

 

Section 7: Reporting Requirements 

 

The IDNR shall provide an annual report to the Governor and the General Assembly detailing the operations, financial status, and impact of the Lorado Taft Outdoor Education Facilities 

 

Section 8: Effective Date This Act shall take effect immediately upon passage

 

 

 

Sponsor: ______________

 

Co-Sponsors: ____________________