Northbrook Park District commissioner appointed to prestigious board by Gov. J.B. Pritzker

Longtime Northbrook Park District board member Mary Ann Chambers was recently appointed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Natural Resources Advisory Board.
The 13-member board comprises a variety of individuals in different roles, including one representing parks and recreation interests. Chambers was appointed to that vacant position in May and attended her first meeting in June.
“I am most grateful for this terrific opportunity to advocate for parks, recreation and conservation, as well as to learn more about the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and how to best conserve, preserve and utilize these resources,” Chambers said. “The opportunity to expand my knowledge and understanding of vast natural resources throughout Illinois is exciting.”
Chambers has served on the Northbrook Park District Board of Commissioners since 1999, including twice as president. She also served on the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) Board of Trustees from 2008-2011 and was elected again in 2022.
Because of her extensive board experience, Chambers brings an uncommon perspective to the Natural Resources Advisory Board, IDNR Assistant Director Todd Strole said.
“Mary Ann is a longtime board member at a very important and very successful park district, and that is very unique and appreciated,” Strole said. “We tend to get staff people, like executive directors, on the board, and it’s really nice to have someone who has a different perspective. It’s a perspective we don’t often have.”
Chambers applied to serve on the IDNR board at the suggestion of IAPD President and CEO Peter Murphy, who described her as “an exceptional leader and a tremendous advocate for parks, recreation and conservation.”
“Her nearly three decades of service as a Northbrook Park District commissioner, combined with her steadfast leadership on the IAPD Board of Trustees, have given her a deep understanding of the importance of protecting natural resources, enhancing recreational opportunities, securing open space and ensuring that wildlife thrives,” Murphy said. “This appointment is a wonderful recognition of her extensive knowledge and experience, and we know she will be an invaluable voice for Illinois’ parks, open spaces and natural resources.”
The IDNR board meets quarterly in Springfield. After attending her first meeting in June, Chambers said, she was astounded at the “truly amazing” natural resources found across Illinois, and their importance to the quality of life that residents enjoy.
“My approach right now is to learn more about IDNR departments, and listen to the other board members' concerns for their specific area of interest,” she said. “I look forward to looking for ways to collaborate and cooperate to work through the challenges of our changing climate, habitat loss, invasive species, expanding development and, of course, funding.”
Established in 1927, the mission of the Northbrook Park District is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.