The Prairie Research Institute conducts solutions-focused research that fuels responsible, data-backed decisions — decisions that drive economic growth and sustainable development while safeguarding public health, vital natural resources, and irreplaceable cultural sites and artifacts.
PRI unites scientific expertise in geology, ecology and biodiversity, archaeology, hydrology and water, weather and climate, pollution prevention, and sustainable energy to tackle some of our most pressing societal issues. Our work helps to ensure safe drinking water, combat tick and mosquito-borne diseases, protect people and property from flooding and other hazards, support and expand industry, construct and maintain resilient infrastructure, and much more.
Science for Sustainable Growth
PRI is a research powerhouse, providing extensive expertise, actionable data, and services to support the work of policymakers, governmental agencies, industries, and communities.
Active across Illinois, PRI delivers an outstanding return on the state’s investment. For every dollar it receives in state funding, PRI generates over $5 in economic value for Illinois. But PRI’s impact extends far beyond this initial economic boost.
Explore some of the many ways in which PRI benefits the people, economy, and environment in Illinois and beyond.
Agriculture
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Conservation
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Energy & Infrastructure
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Hazards
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Industry
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Land Use Planning
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Public Health
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Water Supply
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For more information about PRI and our work, contact Angie Coy, Assistant Director for External Relations, at 217-265-4677 or wisehart@illinois.edu.