McHenry meeting looks at watershed action plan

Submitted by Environmental Defenders of McHenry County

On Monday, Aug. 22, community members from southeastern McHenry County will discuss effective ways to share information with the public on how to help protect local streams, lakes and groundwater resources needed for the drinking water supply.

Public education and outreach is an important part of any planning effort to protect water resources. Community members are encouraged to attend, share ideas and learn more.

The meeting will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 22, at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake.

As part of this discussion, Joan Brehm, associate sociology professor at Illinois State University, will present the findings of a recent local study to gauge public perceptions and understanding of the value of the Nippersink Creek Watershed in McHenry County.

The presentation and public discussion on education and outreach strategies is part of an initiative to develop a watershed action plan for the Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds in southeastern McHenry County. A watershed is an area of land that drains water into a common receiving body, such as a stream. Watershed planning is a collaborative, community supported approach to protecting and improving water quality in lakes and streams, addressing groundwater protections, restoring healthy aquatic habitat, preventing community flooding, and other water resource-related concerns important for local communities.

After the meeting, attendees can join McHenry County Conservation District staff for a short hike in the scenic Silver Creek Conservation Area. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars if you have them.

This meeting is coordinated by The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. Community members that are not available to attend the meeting are encouraged to contact watershedinfo@mcdefenders.net or (815) 338-0393 to learn more and provide input. More information on this planning initiative is available at foxriverecosystem.org/planning.htm.

The Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds are located within Oakwood Hills, Prairie Grove and portions of Bull Valley, Cary, Crystal Lake, and McHenry. The watersheds also include portions of unincorporated McHenry County and are within Nunda and Algonquin townships.

For information about programs and membership, visit www.mcdef.org or email mcdef@owc.net.