IL HB3458

Creates the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Act to establish the Illinois Land Conservation and Stewardship Grant Program providing grants to conservation land trusts for stewardship of lands in the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory, buffer areas, nature preserves, or Illinois Land and Water Reserves.

Annual grant funding capped at $2,000,000 with individual grants requiring 10% match from applicants and not exceeding $50,000 per fiscal year.

Grants require lands to be placed under permanent conservation dedication and prioritizes projects supporting the Illinois Natural Areas Plan, Illinois Sustainable Natural Areas Vision, and Illinois Wildlife Action Plan.

Department of Natural Resources may use up to 5% of appropriated funds for administrative costs including personnel, equipment, and technical services needed to administer the program.

Authorizes Attorney General or State's Attorneys to pursue civil injunctions for violations and establishes civil penalties deposited into the Natural Areas Acquisition Fund; effective immediately upon enactment.