IDNR Projects

This page houses two projects aimed at understanding the State of Illinois from 2 different perspectives. The projects represent a collaboration between two groups within the University of Illinois: LEAM (Land Use Evolution and Impact Assessment Model) and SEDAC (Smart Energy Design Assistance Center).

Solar Site Suitability Decision Support Tool

This tool was created to facilitate decision making regarding solar development on IDNR properties. The tool addresses the technical and financial feasibility of utilizing solar panels at any IDNR agricultural lease property. In addition to assessing the suitability of each site for solar, it provides preliminary indications of solar system capacity and cost.

Conserved Lands and Carbon Sequestration

This project has examined current conserved lands in Illinois and opportunities for expanding those conserved lands while simultaneously analyzing the carbon sequestration potential of both. It has implications for 30×30, biodiversity enhancement, ecosystem services, and climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.