2025 0305 Open House Illinois Geological Survey

PRESS RELEASE

Press Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


March 5, 2025

Contact: Sean Von Bergen

Winnebago County Highway

815-319-4000

Prairie Research Institute



Boone County is working with the Illinois State Geological Survey as part of a major study to better understand where its drinking water comes from. Starting this March, residents will see this historical aerial study taking place as a helicopter collects vital geologic data for the county.

Join us for the Boone County Airborne Mapping Demonstration to learn about this exciting project, and to see the helicopter and its high-tech equipment up close. This once-in-a lifetime event for Boone County residents will showcase cutting-edge advancements in groundwater mapping technology. Hosted by Boone County in partnership with the Prairie Research Institute, Northern Illinois Regional Groundwater Planning and Protection Committee, and University of Illinois Extension Office, this event will engage participants to learn about the water resources of the county.

This free, open-house event will showcase a project that is proudly funded by Boone County and delivered in collaboration with the Illinois State Geological Survey.

RSVP details will be available soon—stay tuned!

Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Poplar Grove Airport, Wings and Wheels Museum, 11619 Route 76. Poplar Grove, IL 61065

Event Highlights

  • See state-of-the-art 3D mapping technology in action with a live helicopter demonstration at 12pm!
  • Engage with interactive educational stations to learn about where your water comes from!
  • Food and drinks will be available!

Who Should Attend?

This event is open to the public, elected officials, regulators, planners, community partners, and anyone passionate about where their water comes from!

Contact Information

  • Kisa Mwakanyamale-Gilkie: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 217-550-2194
  • Jason Thomason: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 217-244-2508
  • Dan Kane: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 779-537-0171

Note: The helicopter demonstration is weather dependent. Updates will be provided the morning of the event if necessary.

Prairie Research Institute

University of Illinois
615 E. Peabody Drive, MC-650 | Champaign, IL 61820
P: 217-333-5111 | F: 217-244-1542