The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) is hosting the 2027 Virtual Designated Erosion Control Inspector (DECI) Workshop on Tuesday, February 9, 2027. Save the date! Registration information will be available in January.

Presenters Wanted

Share your presentation to be considered to be part of the 2027 DECI Workshop. Each year, SMC strives to provide attendees with helpful, practical and real-world DECI related information. If you or someone you know would be a great presenter on a relevant and interesting topic, please apply. Presentations should be between 30 to 45 minutes. The following topics were requested by previous attendees, but any related subjects will be considered:

• DECI Responsibilities on a weekly basis, overcoming problems in the field
• New and Innovative SESC Technologies and Solutions
• Projects in Lake Michigan
• Regulation updates from IEPA, SMC, USACE
• Contractor's Perspective
• Case Studies: successes and challenges
• Streambank Restoration

As always, any topic relating to soil erosion and sediment control will be considered. The deadline to apply to present is December 31, 2026.  Send your presentation topic to Mea Blauer or call (847) 377-7701.

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning

$450 million available in FFY 2028-32 for roadway, transit, and bike and pedestrian projects in northeastern Illinois

Application Deadline: December 18, 2026 More Info

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago funding programs pre-applications due December 15, 2026: Stormwater Partnership Program The program funds projects that address flooding through a variety of traditional engineering solutions including localized detention, upsizing critical storm sewers and culverts, pumping stations, establishing drainage ways, as well as green infrastructure. This infrastructure can reduce flooding and prevent damage to residential homes and businesses. Green Infrastructure Partnership Program Green infrastructure is designed to manage stormwater by mimicking nature. It captures and stores water where it falls, allowing stormwater to infiltrate into the ground before entering the sewer system. This reduces the amount of water flowing through sewers systems that are often overwhelmed by intense rain events. It is a method of reducing stormwater runoff and improving the water quality of our rivers and streams. Technical Assistance For communities that have stormwater problems affecting homes and businesses but lack resources to investigate potential solutions, requests can be submitted to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) for possible technical assistance in the form of preliminary engineering to investigate the problem and identify potential alternatives.

November 5, 2026, American Public Works Association Illinois Chapter Conference in Peoria Information and Registration   Click here for information about IMSA Certification Classes at the conference.

Accepting applications! In its 28th year, the Water Quality Improvement Program (WQIP) grant provides funding to projects exhibiting a regional water quality benefit, including restoration and green infrastructure projects. Under the program, organizations and individuals may apply for reimbursement of up to 25 percent of costs for projects that improve water quality. Since the grant program began in 2000, DuPage County has awarded approximately $7.2 million to 125 projects, such as permeable paver parking lots, green roofs, and native vegetation, with $300,000 awarded annually. Applicants may apply virtually through a WQIP Grant Application portal. The application deadline is Jan. 8, 2027. To access the portal and download the WQIP Grant Application Packet, visit the County's website.