Knight Hawk Helps Group Purchase Pristine Scenic Area

Ecologically significant acreage in Randolph County has been purchased by private conservation groups with support from Knight Hawk Coal.

Heartlands Conservancy of Mascoutah, Ill. and Clifftop of Maeystown, Ill., nonprofit organizations dedicated to land preservation in southwestern Illinois, partnered to purchase a 115-acre parcel of property near of Shiloh Hill, Ill. when it became available through a private auction in July. Knight Hawk Coal and its ownership donated $15,000 for the cause.

"This property hosts unique geological features and flora typically found in northern environs," Knight Hawk President Steve Carter said. "It is undisturbed and virtually pristine. We didn't hesitate when asked for financial support to purchase the property."

Named the Mill Creek Natural Area, the site is home to plants such as club moss, cinnamon fern and bishop's cap. It also features sandstone canyons and gorges and cliff systems. The state-owned Piney Creek Ravine Natural Area, with its own assortment of native species including one of the last stands of short-leaf pine in the region, is nearby.

"Being part of this conservation effort is in concert with Knight Hawk's commitment to the environment," Carter said. "We are a small, family-run operation who lives in the area. We want the future generations of our children and those of Knight Hawk employees to be given a chance to appreciate the pockets of natural wonders that remain here." The groups had about 30 days to raise the money for the purchase. The majority of the money came from a land preservation foundation; the remainder from Knight Hawk and other private concerns.

Knight Hawk Coal, LLC was established in 1997 with 17 employees. Today, 400 people work there supported by 350 contractors.