This week, I am shining my SUSTAINABLE SPOTLIGHT on the wonderful organization OPENLANDS! I am so excited at the chance to spread awareness of all of these great organizations, and today is no exception. What I love most about OPENLANDS is that they are so invested in our nation’s precious land! Their mission statement is to protect the natural and open spaces of northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region to ensure cleaner air and water, protect natural habitats and wildlife, and help balance and enrich our lives. I am especially interested in their land preservation services, especially since Everyday Minerals is so invested in our preservation efforts. Here is a bit more info on their services: Land Acquisition and Planning 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. Conservation Easements 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. Wetland Restoration 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. For all of our lovely ladies who live in Illinois, click here to read more about how you can get involved in OPENLANDS! xo Carina