Can't convert Compound Path to Shape

[adunate]

I'm trying to convert a Compaound Path to a Shape and get the error message "35 objects not converted to shape." It's a map of the state of Wisconsin—just the outline, no content. I've eliminated all the islands so that the object is one piece, although a very detailed one. My reason for converting to a shape is to then create a gradient mesh. Thoughts?

[Ton Frederiks]

Shapes can only be rectangles, ovals, polygons and lines.

[Grant H]

hi, so you can convert this into a shape:

but not this:

if that makes sense

[Ton Frederiks]

None of them can be shapes.

[Grant H]

yes.. was thinking photoshop for a sec.

[Met1]

Expand instead?