Illinois Success Story

Urban Conservation in McHenry County

By: Jill Creamean, NRCS Public Affairs Specialist
Date: May 2003

A long-term working relationship between NRCS and the McHenry County Board departments and staff has brought solutions to flooding, stormwater management, water quality, and wildlife habitat issues. In 2002, final ordinances were drafted to serve as standards for land use and environmental protection in McHenry County urban and developing areas.

"This is a perfect example of NRCS work in urban areas. Soil and water issues don’t exist solely on farmland, and NRCS solutions work in the country and the city," said NRCS State Conservationist Bill Gradle.

Development has dramatically altered landscapes in eastern McHenry County’s urban areas, where localized flooding is a constant issue. Flat, mass graded surfaces, pavement and concrete prevent the soil from absorbing rainfall and increase the rate and volume of water that runs offsite. Natural areas and wetlands, which store excess stormwater and provide wildlife habitat, have also suffered significant losses. This all translates to stormwater problems and flooding.

In 1990, NRCS began working with the McHenry County Board to find science-based solutions to reconcile development activities with resource conservation and protection. NRCS provided technical assistance and stormwater management alternatives to the Stormwater Management Commission, Planning and Development Committee, and the Planning and Development Department. NRCS provided technical standards and served as technical advisors to help the County develop the Stormwater Plan approved in 1996.

The Stormwater Plan proposes solutions that: address water quality, wildlife habitat, and watershed planning issues; recommend a consistent, countywide approach to stormwater runoff control; protect aquatic resources and depressional storage; and include vegetative buffers to protect water bodies from pollution carried through runoff.

NRCS and McHenry County SWCD staff also served on the Technical Advisory Committee for the development of the McHenry County Stormwater Ordinance. NRCS District Conservationist Dave Brandt drafted the Wetland Protection section. "I am honored that the Board seeks NRCS assistance and recognizes NRCS’ solid technical skills and willingness to assist with urban issues," said Brandt.

The draft ordinance includes many new concepts that will: establish water quality standards for urban runoff; establish release rates that include treatment of first flush; protect isolated wetlands; and use plantings and vegetative buffers to improve the resources and aesthetics of developing areas.

Photo Caption: The McHenry County draft Stormwater Ordinance promises to protect isolated wetlands like the one above to provide flood relief, water quality improvements, and wildlife habitat.