Plainfield may join coalition to protect watershed

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Updated: March 21, 2012 8:02AM

PLAINFIELD — The village of Plainfield could join a coalition to help improve the flow of watershed improvement projects in the region.

Doug Kissel, wastewater superintendent, said Plainfield has been mindful of the importance of the DuPage River and other tributaries.

“The village strives to keep our waterway a healthy ecosystem, as well as an effective means of conveying water,” Kissel said.

In an effort to ensure the continued improvement of the watershed, he said the village has teamed up with neighboring cities, organizations, residents and other stakeholders to form the Lower DuPage River Watershed Coalition.

Kissel said the coalition has evolved into a regional, not-for-profit organization representing stakeholders within the watershed.

“By pooling resources and expertise, the coalition can effectively and efficiently improve regional water quality,” he said. “Leadership roles are being filled by the cities of Naperville and Joliet and with board support, the village of Plainfield.”

Channahon, Crest Hill, Shorewood, Romeoville, Bolingbrook and unincorporated Will County are also part of the coalition.

The coalition, Kissel added, has based a fee structure on the basis of Environmental Protection Agency issued permits.

“Based on those permits, our share of coalition dues is $27,154,” he said.

While dues for all communities total $174,163, the Plainfield Village Board has yet to formally join the coalition. It is likely the board will vote on joining at a future meeting.

Jim Lindt, who lives near the DuPage River in Plainfield, finds the coalition beneficial.

“Prevention is always best when it comes to water quality issues,” he said.

While Trustee Bill Lamb on Monday lauded the effort to push for river improvements, he wondered if more could be done concerning stormwater management.

Kissel said the U.S. and Illinois EPAs both support watershed criteria as the future basis for permitting of discharges to waters.

“This type of cooperative effort will be beneficial when members of the coalition approach the EPA for regulatory consideration, grants or other assistance,” Kissel said.