Wildflowers of Illinois

As a part of the Governor's overall environmental emphasis, Illinois' First Lady, Patricia Blagojevich, created the State Beautification Initiative to improve the quality of life in our state, enhance tourism, restore Illinois' ecological identity and to make our state a more attractive place to live. The Wildflowers of Illinois program has been developed as a portion of that initiative.

Grant funds for new plantings are completely committed. All new applications for grants will be placed on file and will be considered when additional funding is available. Any community may express interest in participation in any future “Wildflowers for Communities” programs simply by submitting a letter to Milton R. Sees, Acting Secretary, Illinois Department of Transportation, 2300 South Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, Il 62764.

State Beautification

State Beautification Fosters Economic Development

Based on results from other states like North Carolina and Texas, beautification programs contribute to increased tourism and overall economic development.

Promotes Responsible Stewardship

By combining physical improvements with litter prevention programs and environmental education, beautification encourages responsible stewardship.

Encourages Environmental Understanding

By planting beautiful native wildflowers instead of turf along our extensive state highway system, we will help to renew the natural environment.

Is Cost Effective

The wildflower project will use existing resources without expanding spending, and will maximize exposure by partnering with corporate, municipal, and local partners.

Natural Divisions of Illinois

The state of Illinois lies on an ecological crossroads and has various regions that are representative of other states. The eastern forests of Indiana, the pine forests of Wisconsin, the prairies of Iowa, the rocky forests of Missouri, and the Cypress swamps of Louisiana are represented in the diverse areas throughout Illinois. Illinois has a wide diversity of plant and animal communities, geology, and topography because of its location. Examples include the hills around Galena, the dunes near Lake Michigan, the flat prairies of Central Illinois, and the swamps along the Ohio River. In 1973, John Schwegman, working for the Department of Natural Resources, divided the state into 14 Natural Divisions. These divisions are based on natural features including topography, soil type, bedrock material, glacial history, and distributions of plants and animals. The map to the left shows the state divided into these 14 Natural Divisions.

Northwestern Illinois

Northeastern Illinois

Southwestern Illinois

Southern Illinois

Western Illinois

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