On January 11, 2007 the Kankakee SWCD signed an intergovernmental agreement with the County of Kankakee to develop, review and inspect erosion and sediment control plans for construction sites in Kankakee County. This expansion of the cooperative effort between Kankakee County and the District is to help the County enforce the Stormwater Ordinance and also to comply with the County’s Notice of Intent to comply with the Clean Water Act.

This program will utilize the skills of District staff to help ensure that sediment stays on construction sites and is not washed into storm sewers and drainage swales. District staff will meet with developers and builders to explain the necessary steps to protect the site including silt fences, dedicated construction entrances, seeding plans and protection of ditches during construction and until the site is completely stabilized with vegetation.

This program is another example of the District expanding its programs to meet the changing needs of Kankakee County while still maintaining focus on our mission statement to “Show the public a better way to manage our natural resources.” The District and our partner NRCS have done an excellent job in reducing erosion on agricultural fields and are now looking to assist the urban landowner in the protection of our soil and water.

More information about this program can be obtained by calling the District at 815-937-8940, ext 3 and speaking with Conservation District Manager Rich Howell.