Learn More About 16 Upcoming Stormwater Projects
In November, the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) accepted a second grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) for $30 million for regional stormwater projects.
This is part of the overall $122 million state appropriation that Lake County will receive to address critical issues related to stormwater across the county. This grant will fund projects to be completed from November 1, 2024, through October 31, 2026. Work is underway on a few projects, and several other projects are in the design phase.
The next 16 projects to be funded with the $30 million grant are targeted for Zion, Wauconda, Kildeer, the Round Lake and Buffalo Grove areas, North Barrington, North Chicago, Lake Zurich, Lindenhurst, Highland Park, Lake Bluff, Lincolnshire and Vernon Hills. Watch this video to learn more about these SMC projects.
Lake County to Receive Federal Funding for Army Corps Projects
President Biden signed S.4367, the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024, into law this month. This bill authorizes water resources feasibility studies and projects by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on non-federal projects. The bill included federal funding of $149 million for Cook and Lake County to reduce flooding and storm damage, support water supply and storage projects, restore aquatic ecosystems and more.
SMC looks forward to working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local sponsors to implement environmental infrastructure projects to benefit the Chicagoland region!
Learn more about this bill
Don't Miss the EO and CWS Workshop on January 22
Lake County Stormwater Management Commission is excited to host an Enforcement Officer (EO) and Certified Wetland Specialist (CWS) Workshop on Wednesday, January 22.
This is an optional EO and CWS training to learn more about a variety of stormwater related topics. Presentations will be hosted in a hybrid format (in-person and via Zoom).
When: Wednesday, January 22 from 9 a.m. - Noon
Where: Lake County Central Permit Facility, Second Floor Large Conference Room, 500 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville OR via Zoom
Register for the Virtual Workshop
Register for the In-Person Workshop
See the Workshop Agenda
Attend the DECI 101 Webinar on January 15
Registration is now open to attend the DECI 101 Training Webinar! Join us on Wednesday, January 15 at 10 a.m. for a free, one-hour virtual training designed for new and prospective Designated Erosion Control Inspectors (DECI).
Register here
This webinar is open to those who want to learn more about how to become a DECI, maintain your status, and what the role and responsibility of a DECI are. For those new to the erosion and sediment control field work, SMC will also present on the most used measures in the field, how to inspect them properly and how to properly fill out an inspection report. The webinar will conclude with a question and answer session.
Once registered, do not forward the confirmation link to anyone else, it is unique to you. If your colleagues want to register, please direct them to the registration link. If you have questions, please email Mea Blauer.
Unincorporated Residents May Be Eligible for Flood Insurance Premium Discounts
Property owners residing in unincorporated Lake County may be eligible to save an average of $241 a year on their flood insurance policies. Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Rating System program, residents within unincorporated Lake County – who meet certain requirements – are eligible for up to 20% savings on flood insurance premiums.
Full Details
Help Shape the Future of Illinois' Natural Lands by Completing this Survey!
The State of Illinois is asking residents to take a survey for a landmark state initiative that will influence Illinois’ environmental future. The Illinois Natural and Working Lands (NWL+) Plan will be developed from your feedback and will create opportunities to enhance natural resources, strengthen climate resilience, and support communities across our state for generations.
This survey will take about 15 minutes and is open until mid-January: https://illinoisnwl.web.illinois.edu/survey/
Whether you’re a landowner, outdoor enthusiast, community leader, or concerned resident, you're encouraged to complete this survey. This is your opportunity to directly influence policies affecting:
- Climate resilience strategies
- Conservation priorities
- Public land access
- Sustainable agriculture
- Urban green spaces
- Wildlife protection
- Community development
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A Note from Executive Director, Kurt Woolford
 From everyone at the SMC Team, we hope you had a wonderful holiday season! We're looking forward to the projects and work to come in 2025.
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