Looking Back to Look Forward

Millions of years before man walked on earth, there were plants. In reality, all animal life on Earth
exists because of plants. We breathe and eat the products of plants and most of our shelter and
energy is derived from plants. Our ancestors looked to plants to cure ailments, and in the age of
advanced medical technology, we still look to plants to cure disease. The wetland pictured here is
one of the common habitats of Southern Illinois. This site is developed and maintained by ecology
students of Dr. Philip Short at Belleville East High School. Information is shared to give viewers a
glimpse of the history of Southern Illinois ecosystems, utilization of plant and animal resources by
native peoples, the current status and use of our natural resources, and the future of these
ecosystems.

Attempts have been made to insure the accuracy of this information. The site is for educational
purposes only and not designed as a definitive guide to the flora, fauna, edible or medicinal uses, or
issues arising from resource utilization. If there questions or suggested corrections, please notify
Dr. Short.