Illinois Lakes Management Association (ILMA)

02/20/2026

02/19/2026

We were truly honored to have Dick Hilton join us as our keynote speaker at this week’s Illinois Lakes Management Association conference.

For more than 30 years, Dick has been an instrumental part of ILMA, generously volunteering his time, sharing his expertise, and helping shape the organization into what it is today. His commitment goes far beyond service—he has been a mentor, a trusted voice, and a friend to so many of us in this community.

Dick’s presentation was especially meaningful. His stories and historical perspective reminded us not only of how far we’ve come, but also of the passion and dedication that continue to drive our mission forward. That kind of perspective is invaluable, and it’s something only Dick could share in the way he did.

Dick, thank you for your decades of volunteerism, your unwavering commitment, and your friendship. ILMA is stronger because of you, and we are deeply grateful.

01/14/2026

01/07/2026

🐟 Seasonal Aquatic Ecology Field Technician – Join Lake Michigan Biological Station, Illinois Natural History Survey!
Help monitor sport fish and other biological communities along the Illinois shoreline of Lake Michigan! Position located near Zion, IL. Apps due Jan. 15, 2026.
👉 Find the link to apply in the comments.

12/30/2025

This is your reminder and last call for early bird registration for our annual conference in February.

Early Bird discount goes until december l31st!! Grab your tickets now before prices increase.

Visit: https://www.ilma-lakes.org/conference

The Illinois Lake Management Association is hosting it’s Annual Conference at the iHotel in Champaign, Illinois. This will be a great event and opportunity to learn about a variety of lake topics. The conference will feature over 30 experts presenting on various topics. Come take advantage of the ...

12/17/2025

Early Bird discount for conference registration has been extended until December 31st!! Grab your tickets now before prices increase.

Visit: https://www.ilma-lakes.org/conference-registration.

Agenda at a glance listed below (subject to change). Please note no workshops on the Monday due to it being a holiday (presidents day).

11/12/2025

📢 Early Bird Alert! Don't miss your chance to register for the Illinois Lakes Management Association (ILMA) Annual Conference before prices go up on December 15th!

Join professionals, researchers, consultants, students, and advocates focused on protecting and managing Illinois' water resources.

🔬 Learn about the latest research on Harmful Algae Blooms, Invasive Species, Fishery Management, and more.

🤝 Network with experts from state agencies, consulting firms, lake associations, and academia.

📍 Where: iHotel, Champaign, IL
🗓️ When: February 16-18, 2026

Secure your spot now and connect with the leaders shaping the future of our lakes and watersheds.

https://www.ilma-lakes.org/conference

FEBRUARY 16-18 2026 - iHotel, 1900 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820, (217) 819-5000. The room block code for Reservations is ILMA26. Guest passcode: ntj5! Early Bird registration is currently open and pricing will increase after December 15th.

08/25/2025

Happy Birthday to Dick Hilton!!

Send a message to learn more

08/11/2025

What is your opinion of Wake Boats?

Underwater turbulence from wakesurfing can "adversely" impact Minnesota’s lakes, according to a highly anticipated study by the University of Minnesota.

08/04/2025

In a new study, researchers at the University of Minnesota are recommending that wake boats stay in deeper waters when wake surfing to avoid any harm to the lake bottom and water quality.

07/30/2025

This is a reminder this event is TODAY!!! Hope to see you there !

Please join us on July 30th and Lindy’s Landing in Wauconda for an ILMA POD (point of discussion) on the aquatic invasive species : Starry Stonewort! ILMA Pods are informal gatherings to learn about lake management - this one will feature Megan Cunnison and Alex Quebbeman from Loyola Univwrsiry in Chicago who are working on large survey efforts and environmental DNA of Starry Stonewort m Chicagos Lake Michigan Harbors.

RSVP required - register here by July 18th! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScptYpk6F7VB0F8PF_Cqmu77AV9ohOQyvtXj6RWzLMOmXZOOw/viewform