The East St. Louis Park Corridor creates a great potential for attracting wildlife. Creating wildlife habitat only makes sense since the Corridor's proximity is so near the Mississippi River, where many species of animals find food and water.
Wildlife need areas of habitat in order to live, hunt, forage for food, feed, roost, and take cover from predators. We have an opportunity to attract and protect this wildlife. Our "Park Corridor" project will serve as a home for local wildlife and a refuge for migrating animals. Many endangered species including the great
egret, blue heron, and the eastern massasauga will be able to find safe areas in which to live and feed.
The East St. Louis Park Corridor will invariably connect two other existing parks to the north and south. Migrating wildlife need these habitat areas to connect in order to move safely and undetected. In addition to this, connecting habitat also offers a continuous opportunity for food. This is a very important factor for
migrating wildlife, since many species- including many endangered species- have problems with mortality of their young while migrating. When migrating, adult species are able to store more food than the young. When the stretch between fragmented habitats becomes too great, and the stored food of young animals runs out, the chance of survival lessens. Another problem with fragmentation is that animals may become more exposed, creating a greater chance of human-related accidents and creating a greater chance of predation.
Not only does the "Park Corridor" give to the wildlife, but it also gives to the community. The community can gain pride for their part in helping to preserve endangered species. The wildlife will surely attract curious people, increasing the variety of information and education offered within the city. The park can attract visitors who will also want to explore this area, increasing revenue for the city. People of the community will gain an area quite different from what currently exists. This park will be a rich source of education, nature, and amenity.
