The 21st was joined by the author of "The Shotgun Conservationist," who writes that he’s not trying to convert anyone into a hunter but says he wants to broaden perspectives.

Illinois is one step closer to a graduated income tax. Action by state lawmakers this weekend means that the issue will be on the ballot next fall. Plus, a new bill would change math requirements for high schoolers here in Illinois. We’ll hear how students looking for a career in a trade could benefit. And, Illinois was once home to millions of prairie chickens but now there are only about 200.

As grassland and prairies gave way to farmland in the Midwest, habitats for some native birds disappeared. There’s a relatively new program in central Illinois looking to restore wetlands for migrating birds and help farmers at the same time.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s recently released 2017 Census of Agriculture data show the amount of land in the largest federal conservation programs has decreased nationwide and in many Midwest and Plains states. But that doesn’t mean farmers are ignoring soil health, nutrient runoff or erosion problems.

Trees are an important part of a conservation plan, and, like most farmers, Bruce Carney wants to take good care of the land.