This is a compilation of research papers created to inform policymakers about the state of Illinois’ ecosystems. The papers score the water quality based on both the habitat and biological properties, and the streams were ranked based on the score. They also look at bird and wildlife censusing to look at the diversity of species based on habitat availability. Biodiversity of plant life is examined to see if the predominant species are natural or invasive. Overall, the job of the assessment is to give general information on the quality of the ecosystems in an area so we can better assess how to improve the quality of the water and habitats used by plants and animals.
Critical Trends Assessment Report, 2002
