DuPage County Stormwater Management News & Updates

DuPage County, Illinois sent this bulletin at 09/23/2020 10:20 AM CDT

September 2020                                                                                                                               View this email in your browser
DuPage County Currents

DuPage County Encourages Proper Leaf Management this Fall

Leaf Removal Video

DuPage County Stormwater Management (SWM) is encouraging DuPage County residents to dispose of leaves properly this fall. When leaves blow into storm sewers and waterways, they can become a source of water pollution. In just six to eight weeks, leaves can account for more than half of annual phosphorous in stormwater runoff, which may cause algal blooms and be detrimental to fish and aquatic insects. Leaves can also build up along streets and block storm drains, which can lead to localized flooding. Residents can avoid these issues by composting, bagging and mulching leaves.

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SCARCE Announces Pumpkin Smash

2020 Pumpkin Smash

To reduce the number of pumpkins going to landfills after Halloween, SCARCE is hosting their annual Pumpkin Smash in several DuPage County locations on November 7. The collected pumpkins are composted, which returns nutrients and water to soil, leading to healthier groundwater and streams. SCARCE is also seeking participation from towns interesting in hosting an event.

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SWM Hosting Webinars on YouTube

This fall, SWM is hosting several monthly virtual workshops and webinars. Following each of the virtual events, the recorded videos can be accessed on SWM's YouTube page, entitled "Love Blue. Live Green." The page also hosts training videos, both technical and residential, and drone-based video tours highlighting SWM's flood control facilities and projects.

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Around Town

The DuPage County Stormwater Management Planning Committee recently recognized several SWM staff members for career milestones, specifically Deputy Director Chris Vonnahme on 30 years with DuPage County, Permitting Manager Clayton Heffter on 20 years and Stormwater Systems Coordinator John Blickem on 10 years. All three have spent their time at DuPage working for SWM and are assets to the department.

Anniversary Award

DuPage Stormwater Committee Chair Jim Zay and Director Sarah Hunn recognize Clayton Heffter.

Upcoming Events

Public Roads Deicing Virtual Workshop

Thursday, October 1, 2020, 8:00 A.M. - Noon

The DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup is hosting a virtual winter deicing workshop for public agencies. The purpose of this workshop is to educate attendees on alternatives to traditional salting practices and methods that may reduce the presence of chloride in waterways, while keeping roads safe. Registration is $40, and certificates of attendance will be provided.

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Parking Lots & Sidewalks Deicing Virtual Workshop

Thursday, October 8, 2020, 8:00 A.M. - Noon

The DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup is hosting a virtual winter deicing workshop for private contractors. The purpose of this workshop is to educate attendees on alternatives to traditional salting practices and methods to reduce the presence of chloride in waterways, while keeping parking lots and sidewalks safe. Registration is $40, and certificates of attendance will be provided.

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"Raise the Bar on Stormwater Design" Webinar

Thursday, October 8, 2020, 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M.

SWM and The Conservation Foundation are offering a free webinar entitled "Raise the Bar on Stormwater Design" to connect like-minded organizations and individuals in protecting local streams and rivers This presentation will explore the use of adaptive stormwater designs that provide a more holistic evaluation of urban hydrology that, when applied, can effectively manage stormwater more sustainably. One (1) PDH will be offered.

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Public Roads Deicing Virtual Workshop

Wednesday, October 14, 2020, 8:00 A.M. - Noon

The DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup is hosting a virtual winter deicing workshop for public agencies. The purpose of this workshop is to educate attendees on alternatives to traditional salting practices and methods that may reduce the presence of chloride in waterways, while keeping roads safe. Registration is $40, and certificates of attendance will be provided.

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"Celebrating OAKtober with a Healthy Yard" Webinar

Wednesday, October 21, 2020, 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Sponsored by SWM and The Conservation Foundation, Melissa Custic, Chicago Region Tree Initiative Specialist for The Morton Arboretum, will present on the natural history of Illinois and what significance oaks play in that, including current challenges facing oak ecosystems and how local yards can help out oaks. This webinar is free, but advanced registration is required.

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