Illinois NLRS Program and Project Narratives

The DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup (DRSCW), formed in 2005, works to improve water quality in the DuPage River and Salt Creek watersheds through cost-effective restoration projects and nutrient management. Recent efforts include stream restorations at Spring Brook, Klein Creek, and the Fullersburg Woods Dam removal, which have improved habitat, fish passage, and ecosystem health. In 2023, DRSCW submitted a Nutrient Implementation Plan recommending phosphorus limits for wastewater treatment plants and targeted projects to address dissolved oxygen impairments, supporting long-term aquatic life and water quality improvements.

The Lower Des Plaines Watershed Group coordinates a watershed bioassessment program to identify and address priority water quality issues in the Lower Des Plaines River and its 19 tributaries. The workgroup also provides extensive outreach materials for members and the public on issues related to water quality. For more information, see www.LDPWatersheds.org.

For 20 years, the Fox River Study Group has worked to improve the health of the Fox River for the benefit of the nearly 1 million citizens in the Fox River Valley and the over 300,000 people whose drinking water comes from the river. In 2022, the group updated its 2015 Fox River Implementation Plan and successfully advocated for a relaunch of a multi-dam removal feasibility study. To reduce algae and improve oxygen conditions in the river, the 2022 Fox River Implementation Plan recommends combining further phosphorus reductions from wastewater inputs with dam removals. For more information, see foxriverstudygroup.org.

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning’s Local Technical Assistance Program supports communities in northeastern Illinois and aligns with the region’s current long-range plan — ON TO 2050 — and its principles of regional resilience, inclusive growth, and prioritized investment. Since 2012, the program has assisted communities in developing more than 200 projects with local governments, nonprofits, and intergovernmental organizations to address local issues at the intersection of transportation, land use, and housing, including the natural environment, economic growth, and community development. The program helps communities plan projects that build local capacity, engage marginalized groups, and connect local partners with implementing agencies and capital funding for infrastructure investments, including stormwater management. For more information, see www.cmap.illinois.gov/programs/lta. 

Developed by The Conservation Foundation, Conservation@Home is an educational program that recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. Through the Conservation@Home certification program’s guidance and education, residents can shape their private and community landscapes in an environmentally-minded way. Conservation@Home is a northeastern Illinois regional program. A map of participants is available at tcfwatersheds.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/ index.html. In Cook County, this program is a partnership between University of Illinois Extension and The Forest Preserves of Cook County. For more information, see extension.illinois.edu/cook/ConservationHome and theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home

DuPage County Stormwater Management recognizes the financial burden a property owner may face when undertaking a project that improves regional water quality. The county’s Water Quality Improvement Program, WQIP, offers financial assistance to projects providing a regional water quality benefit to local waterways. The grant funds up to 25% of eligible construction costs for water quality improvement projects. DuPage County initiated the grant program in 2000 and has awarded nearly $6.3 million across 108 projects. DuPage County government agencies, organizations, and individuals are eligible to receive funds under the WQIP. The WQIP story map provides information on the grant and application process and gives examples of eligible projects, such as rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavers, and streambank stabilization. The story map also includes animated infographics, photos, project descriptions, and an interactive map of previously awarded projects.

For more information, see dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/stormwater_management/grants/water_quality_ improvement_program.php.

The Greater Chicago Watershed Alliance, led by Friends of the Chicago River, is a coalition of 42 organizations working to advance nature-based stormwater solutions across the Chicago-Calumet River watershed. Since 2020, the alliance has secured $8 million in grants to support regional projects and collaboration. In 2024, the group facilitated the transition of the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative, advanced funding opportunities, contributed to regional stormwater policies, and hosted the 20th Anniversary Chicago River Summit, bringing together more than 150 experts to promote watershed-based stormwater management. 

From 2021-23, University of Illinois Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant developed a website, Illinois Groundwork, based on multidisciplinary green infrastructure research and an extension process piloted in the Chicago Calumet region. By improving access to data, research, and other resources, Illinois Groundwork increases the effective use of green infrastructure to address stormwater management challenges. For more information, see IllinoisGroundwork.org. 

The Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program empowers residents to protect and improve water resources through science-based education on watershed health, water quality, climate change, invasive species, and agriculture. Participants complete eight interactive sessions and gain skills to support restoration, community science, and educational initiatives. An optional Watershed Game uses a team-based simulation to demonstrate how cooperation and land-use decisions affect water quality. Offered statewide through Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, University of Illinois Extension, and Purdue Extension, the program trained participants and educators across Illinois and Indiana in 2024, expanding local capacity for watershed stewardship and environmental education.