Springfield, Ill.—For their leadership in integrating sustainable practices at Jubilee Farm, the Dominican Sisters were honored with a Gold Level certificate from Sustainable Springfield. This grass roots organization promotes and inspires sustainable solutions by local governments, the business community, and Springfield area citizens.
Sister Rose Marie Riley, director of Jubilee Farm and Sister Sharon Zayac, a pioneer founder, received the award during an event at Maldaner’s restaurant in Springfield on Wednesday, Sept. 7. “It was heartwarming to see the number of local organizations honored for their efforts toward sustainability,” Sister Rose Marie said.
The award book cited Jubilee Farm for its efforts to maintain wildlife habitat, educate the community, mobilize volunteers for land restoration, and revitalize native plant species on the 163-acre oasis. “Migratory birds benefit from this restoration work in annual trips from South/Central America to the boreal forests in Canada,” it said. Jubilee Farm also recycles waste like used motor oil, dry cell batteries, compact fluorescent bulbs, electronics and other items, including wood and fiber that is either reused on the farm or given to local organizations.
The sisters installed a rainwater collection system on their house that channels rainwater from the roof into a cistern for watering the garden.
A partnership with the Land of Lincoln Bird Banding Association has enabled one of the most popular activities at the farm: periodic events open to the public, who can see, hold, and release the newly banded birds and learn from experts about the habits of the species that live at or temporarily make Jubilee Farm their home. The next public bird banding event is 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 8, 2022. Call 217-679-6727 for more information.
Jubilee Farm has been in the care of the Dominican Sisters of Springfield since 1999. In addition to their award-winning sustainability efforts, the sisters at Jubilee Farm welcome guests to the land, teach fiber arts, offer spiritual direction, and provide gathering space for meetings and celebrations in the Creative Arts Center. For more information visit https://jubileefarm.info.
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