Current Projects

The Urban Butterfly Initiative has a number of on-going projects in Coles Co., IL.

Project 1. Charleston Carnegie Public Library

​

A Butterfly Hotspot is being created in the parking lot of the Charleston Carnegie Public Library and on the small lots directly north and west of the parking lot.

Partners: Eastern Illinois University; City of Charleston, Illinois; Charleston Carnegie Public Library; EIU Earth Wise

Project 2. Lake Charleston

​​

A Butterfly Hotspot is being created at the new pavilion near the levee trailhead (approximately 1/5 acre). Additional habitat is being created in other locations in Lake Charleston and Woodyard Conservation Area.

​

Partners: Eastern Illinois University, City of Charleston, Illinois; Pheasants Forever

Project 3. Fox Ridge State Park

​​

Two Butterfly Hotspots (approximately 1/3 acre each) are being developed in Fox Ridge State Park.

​

Partners: Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Fox Ridge State Park, Fox Ridge Foundation

Project 4. Lincoln Prairie Grass Trail

​​

One Butterfly Hotspot is being created at the Loxa Rd. access to the Lincoln Prairie Grass Trail. Additional habitat is being created along the trail from Loxa Rd. to Old State Road.

​

Partners: City of Charleston, Illinois; Pheasants Forever; Ameren Illinois

Project 5. EIU Secret Garden - UBI Demonstration Site

​

A small (300 sq. ft.) Butterfly Hotspot is being created in EIU's Secret Garden (next to the EIU Thut Greenhouse).

Partner: Eastern Illinois University