Prairie Rivers Network and Earthjustice say they will sue the energy company Dynegy for allowing toxic waste to leak into the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River.

If you’re looking for energy and inspiration this month—and who’s not? —let me call your attention to the state of the environmental community in central Illinois, and some of the ways it has flourished over the past year.

This year marks a milestone for the Prairie Rivers Network. The environmental advocacy group is celebrating its 50-year anniversary this year. And they’re marking the occasion with their 50th Anniversary Dinner Gala Friday night at the I-Hotel and Conference Center in Champaign.

Some east-central Illinois students have the chance this week to learn about clean water and keeping area waterways trash free.

Champaign County recently saw its first confirmed armadillo.