About Us
What is the NRCS?
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, dedicated to helping private landowners conserve, maintain, and improve natural resources. With a focus on sustainable land use, NRCS provides technical expertise and financial support for projects that protect soil, water, air, and wildlife, while promoting the health and productivity of our nation’s landscapes. Through collaborative partnerships, NRCS works to ensure a balance between human needs and environmental preservation.
For projects that protect…..
Air
Soil
Water
Plants
Animals
Land
Energy
Climate
Wildlife Habitat
Invasive Species and Pests
and
Watersheds
The Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations (WFPO) Program provides technical and financial assistance to States, local governments and Tribal organizations to help plan and implement authorized watershed projects. All Watershed Program projects must have a local sponsor that can act as the fiscal agent, provide project management and oversight throughout the different phases of construction, implementation, and project lifespan.
Local Sponsor – SMC
Lake County Stormwater Management Commission
The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC), located in Libertyville, Illinois, was established in 1990 through State of Illinois legislation to coordinate stormwater management activities from a countrywide and interjurisdictional perspective. SMC’s main functions include regulatory, planning, engineering, administration, public information and mapping areas.
The Lake County Stormwaters Commission is responsible for coordinating the stormwater activities of over 80 local jurisdictions to improve water quality, reduce flood damages, and restore and enhance the natural drainage system. The Commission is responsible for establishing policy, adopting the annual budget, and implementing the Lake County Comprehensive Stormwater Management Plan.
Main Components of SMC’s Program
Managing Lake County's floodplains and watersheds by administering countywide floodplain and stormwater management standards.
Flood damage reduction through flood hazard mitigation projects, and implementing Best Management Practices, watershed management plans and effective floodplain and stormwater management regulations.
Natural resource protection and restoration by utilizing a mix of funding sources and partnerships to restore and enhance the natural drainage system.
Stakeholder - Lake County Forest Preserve District
Lake County Forest Preserve District
As principal guardian of Lake County’s open space and natural areas since 1958, we set the standard in nature and historic preservation, and in outdoor recreation and education. Acknowledged as a regional and national leader, we protect more than 31,200 acres of natural land and are the second-largest forest preserve district in Illinois.
