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Disabled Outdoor Opportunities
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is committed to providing greater access and more programs for persons with disabilities. We want to make it easier for disabled individuals to hunt, fish and pursue other outdoor activities. Disabled hunters can participate in deer, pheasant, waterfowl and dove hunting at various sites throughout Illinois. A number of fishing events are held each year as well. DNR's intention is to expand these opportunities so more individuals may take part. One example of a successful event is at Rock Cut State Park where hunters have participated in shotgun deer hunts for several years now.
For any questions regarding Disabled Outdoor Opportunities, please contact:
Jay Williams
jay.d.williams@illinois.gov
618-435-8138 ext. 4
IL Dept. of Natural Resources
11731 State Hwy 37, Benton, IL 62812.
Special Hunt for P2A/Disabled Hunters
Johnson Sauk Trail
Johnson Sauk Trail will host a special hunt for disabled hunters this year. A lottery will be conducted at Johnson Sauk Trail. The date is still awaiting to be determined. Hunters are allowed to bring a partner to assist them. Both resident and non-residents are allowed to enter the lottery. Proof of P2A status must be presented on the day of the hunt. It is not necessary to be present for the lottery.
Hunt location: Johnson Sauk Trail, 28616 Sauk Trail Rd., Kewanee, IL 61443
Hunt dates: TBA
For more information, call Johnson Sauk Trail at 309-853-2425.
Touch of Nature
Hunt dates: TBA
The Ten Day Rule (link to policies below) Accessible Piers
General Information
Digests, Regulations and Forms
Specialized Cart
Background Information
In 1999, these issues were addressed by establishing a new program entitled "Disabled Outdoor Opportunities." Objectives for this program include: establishing partnerships with organizations representing people with disabilities and working cooperatively to mainstream DNR programs and facilities to better meet the needs of the individuals they represent, review existing DNR recreational opportunities to identify and eliminate barriers to participation, develop and coordinate training programs for staff and continually provide knowledge on the basic needs and concerns of this segment by working with DNR site planners and engineers to develop integrated barrier free designs for recreational facilities.
The Department is continuing to expand its disabled program. We want people to continue to hunt and fish our parks, but we also want to expand to see others using our trails, picnic sites, boat launches, camping sites, overnight cabins, etc. We are continuously working on accessible restrooms and shower houses. The department would like to see more people use our sites. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do for you. Call your site superintendent or e-mail Jay Williams with comments, suggestions or just to tell us how we're doing!
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ensures that individuals with disabilities are not denied or excluded from activities, including outdoor recreation.