Cache River National Wildlife Refuge

The Cache River State Natural Area in Southern Illinois can be described in one way: enchanting. Yet, this picturesque sight of tranquillity may fall prey to state budget cuts. The Cache River is one of 24 state parks and natural areas set for closure or downsizing because of the shortfall in the state's budget. If closed, Southern Illinois would not only lose a valuable natural resource, but a part of its identity.

Located about an hour south of Carbondale and stretching more than several thousand acres, the area has provided Southern Illinois with an important natural and educational resource. Purchased by the state in 1969, the area has provided SIU professors and students through the years with a valuable agricultural research tool.

For decades, an estimated 50,000 visitors have walked its trails and trekked across its acreage; fished in its waters and hunted its wildlife. The Cache River is the most northern wetland in the state. More than 100 endangered plant and animal species are located in the area.

Trees standing for more than 1,000 years tower over portions of the river, and the endangered wildlife shepherds the land, giving it life and vitality. The river itself stretches 110 miles and is recognized nationally and internationally. As natural areas go, it is in a class by itself. The swamplands of New Orleans and the Florida Everglades may be more well known, but our little Southern Illinois gem holds its own nicely.

Visiting the river is like traveling to a different place and time. It is one of our natural treasures. Unfortunately, state-funded nature-type sites are usually the first items targeted during tough fiscal times. Its closure, however, will have a greater negative impact than if it remains open.
A $4 million visitor's center - built in 1999 on the area south of Whitehill on Illinois Route 37 - is near completion,

but its chances to open rests on the future of the Cache River. The Henry N. Barkhausen Wetland Center is scheduled to open this summer. Two employees are needed to run the center. Three employees currently operate the state's portion of the river.
Those workers will lose their jobs if the Cache River is closed, and the center will most certainly remain closed - and $4 million will be wasted. A state so concerned with money is ill-advised to have a multi-million dollar facility sitting empty and serving no one.
The Cache River is more than just another natural area. The site and all its precious features is a natural wonder unlike anything in Southern Illinois, and it should remain open to all it has served.

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