Prairie Research Institute

Home of the Illinois State Scientific Surveys

Institute Name Change

A Message from Executive Director Bill Shilts

We are pleased to announce that the Institute of Natural Resource Sustainability is now officially the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This name change is an important milestone for the Institute as we complete our third successful year as one of the largest Institutes in the University. We remain the home of the Illinois Scientific Surveys, but the new Prairie Research Institute name gives the Surveys' diverse, collective research activities an appropriate geographical context. The name is unique within the University but with a strong connection to the State of Illinois which we serve. The Prairie Research Institute name is distinctive, appropriate, and timeless.

The rationale for changing the Institute's name is to assure the long-term visibility and support of the State Scientific Surveys at the University of Illinois and among our public stakeholders. We are collectively addressed on campus and by the state by the Institute name, but our previous name proved to be cumbersome and was often confused with other campus units. In addition, our previous name was no longer accurate since the addition of the Illinois State Archeological Survey added cultural resources to our area of responsibility for natural resources.

The Illinois State Scientific Survey names are well established nationally and internationally and have long been associated with objectivity, innovation, and excellence as embodied by our staff, our science, and our mission. The accomplishments of ... read more on the name change

Read the press release on the new Institute name.

Scientific Surveys

Illinois Natural History Survey

Since 1858, the INHS has been the guardian and recorder of the biological resources of Illinois — the State's biological memory. With a staff of over 200 scientists and technicians, it is recognized as the premier natural history survey in the nation.

Illinois State Archaeological Survey

Formed February 1, 2010 as a new Division in the Prairie Research Institute, ISAS investigates, protects, preserves and interprets the rich archaeological heritage of Illinois through ITARP, the ATAM program, education, and outreach to meet long-term public needs. Drawing on more than eighty years of research at the University of Illinois, ISAS documents and preserves cultural resources within the context of sustainable economic development. The ISAS has worked with other Divisions of the Institute, in particular the Illinois State Geological Survey and the Illinois Natural History Survey, for more than twenty years on transportation and other development projects throughout Illinois.

Illinois State Geological Survey

The ISGS is a premier State Geological Survey serving the needs of Illinois with earth science information relevant to the State's environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety. Some 200 scientists and technical support staff conduct basic and applied research in geology, compile geologic maps, and gather and manage the state's geological data.

Illinois State Water Survey

The ISWS has flourished for more than a century by anticipating and responding to new challenges and opportunities to serve the citizens of Illinois. Today, the ISWS continues to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability by developing new programs, while continuing to provide long-standing services upon which Illinoisans have come to rely.

Illinois Sustainable Technology Center

ISTC is a change agency that performs research, spreads awareness, and facilitates implementation regarding practices, technology and systems that improve sustainability. The Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (formerly the Waste Management and Research Center) has been providing assistance to Illinois businesses and the public since 1985.

History of the Scientific Surveys and ISTC