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OBTU Chapter Meeting May 21, 2025
May 21 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
SPEAKER: Drew Kazenski, co-chair for the IL chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA)
TOPIC: What can be done to protect access to Illinois streams and rivers?
The IL Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers and the Oak Book Chapter of Trout Unlimited are joining forces to host a public meeting to talk about protecting public access to Illinois streams and rivers. We invite other concerned individuals and organizations to JOIN US on May 21 to discuss issues, answer questions, and plan future actions.
Despite laws and court rulings supporting public river access, ambiguous legal interpretations have led to landowners and state officials blocking access; and restricting rights to Illinois’ waterways.
Legislation to clarify Illinois’ confusing stream access situation, and ensure the right to public waters for paddlers, hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts is being considered in the Illinois General Assembly. House Bill 1873 protects public access to navigable rivers while respecting private landowner concerns, ensuring Illinoisans can enjoy their waterways just like residents of neighboring states.
Together, through individual actions, advocacy, and collaborative efforts, we can protect our right to enjoy our waterways!
More About Drew Kazenski: Drew Kazenski grew up in rural central Illinois and was raised from the beginning with a deep understanding and respect for hunting, fishing and conservation. As an avid hiker, hunter and fly fisherman; he has had whitetails make him tremble in Illinois, chased Merriam turkeys in South Dakota, and landed West-slope Cutthroats in Montana, all due to public land and conservation efforts before him. Drew believes if you are consuming or taking you should do some part to give back, one of his reasons for joining BHA. Drew encourages everyone to find away to give back to the land we all consume from. Currently, Drew still resides in central Illinois with his wife and golden retriever enjoying their passion for the outdoors.
Drew Kazenski, Co-Chair of BHA Chicago Chapter
Link to BHA National Web Site: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/
Link to BHA Illinois Chapter: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/illinois
Zoom meeting to start at 7:00pm. Doors open for pizza and socializing at 6:00pm.
This is a hybrid meeting: You can attend in person at the Central Park West Building in the Oak Brook Park District (see map below) or participate in the meeting remotely by signing on to Zoom.
Link to Zoom meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84767652674?pwd=bOuE3uObOogmFQSbvbrj0q1rb45lbh.1
Meeting ID: 847 6765 2674 Passcode: 717730
OR Connect by Phone:
Phone #: (312) 626-6799 Meeting ID: 717730