Creating the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge took a modest financial investment for future generations to enjoy it, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin said Friday as he stood on the refuge’s latest acquisition.

Durbin also was there 13 years ago when the federal preserve was established following almost a decade of planning.

“I still remember the visit,” Durbin said, thanking then-Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar for his support in getting the project approved.

“Hackmatack is a testament to grassroots passion and powerful partnerships,” said Michael Davidson, director of Openlands, who noted that the Friends of Hackmatack also were vital in getting the urban national wildlife refuge off the ground.

“With 80% of Americans living in metro areas, the need for nature close to home has never

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