Watershed Planning – Land Use

Thank you, donors! Funding for watershed planning is made possible by donor generosity to CommunityWorks Funds at the Foundation.

The Community Foundation stands committed to watershed planning as part of its land use strategy in DeKalb County. In collaboration with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District, and community stakeholders, watershed planning has been underway for nearly a decade in DeKalb County.

Progress over the years has resulted in three completed watershed plans for the county. There are 12 subwatersheds total. Completed watershed plans encompass the City of DeKalb (including Northern Illinois University), City of Sycamore, City of Sandwich, and surrounding areas.

Central South Branch Kishwaukee

Lower Little Rock (2022)

Upper South Branch Kishwaukee (2020)

East/South Branch Kishwaukee (2014)

DeKalb County Watersheds

More information at dekalbcountywatersheds-il.org.

2022 Highlights:

l The Foundation’s Land Use Committee met with county representatives and municipalities to discuss watershed planning, improved water quality, and sound land use decisions.

l Provided a $25,000 grant for watershed planning coordination activities.

l Granted $4,220 to create and install signage along the Central South Branch of the Kishwaukee River Watershed.

l Submitted an IEPA Section 319 grant application to complete a watershed-based plan for the Central South Branch planning area.