CARBONDALE — The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to purchase land from willing sellers for wetland mitigation in Hamilton, White, Saline, Gallatin, Hardin, Pope, Johnson and Massac counties as well as the eastern portion of Jefferson, Williamson and Union counties. Desired property characteristics include a location in floodplain or frequently flooded area, in crop production since 1984 or categorized by the Natural Resource Conservation Service as PC (Prior Converted) and have hydric soil. Many construction projects can affect nearby ecosystems. Wetland mitigation offsets expected adverse effects through preservation, enhancement, restoration or creation of a wetland, stream or habitat. IDOT is in need of a large tract of land within these identified southern counties. If interested, please contact Julie Klamm, Environmental Studies Managers for IDOT Region 5, District 9 at 618-549-2171, extension 286.