Our mission is to preserve our natural heritage by acquiring, restoring, and protecting ecologically significant lands in the Sangamon River watershed. Many of the counties in the watershed do not have a local conservation district or other land trust organization dedicated to preserving land or restoring and maintaining natural areas. The Friends fills this niche. Initially formed to address a potential threat to a nature preserve in Springfield, the Friends of the Sangamon Valley has expanded its mission to encompass the broader watershed, including work in four counties.

Our focus is hands-on stewardship. We believe in the strength and ability of community volunteers to provide the best care and management of our local natural resources. Our volunteers participate in strategic planning, research, endangered species monitoring, exotic species control, and other ecological management activities. We also provide opportunities for workshops, tours, and just getting outside to appreciate some of the overlooked gems in Central Illinois.