DeKalb County Watersheds Council

The DeKalb County Watersheds Council is a collaborative, stakeholder-driven advisory group focused on watershed planning and water-resource management in DeKalb County, Illinois. It is led by the DeKalb County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) with strong support from the DeKalb County Community Foundation and other local and regional partners.

The Council originated from the DeKalb County Community Foundation’s Land Use / Community Works Initiative, a long-term effort to promote thoughtful land use, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development. This initiative laid the groundwork for today’s Council, which now serves as the central hub for watershed planning, coordination, and implementation across the county.

In partnership with landowners, communities, agencies, and nonprofits, the Council helps foster the development of comprehensive watershed plans that guide local projects to improve water quality, manage stormwater, reduce erosion, restore ecosystems, and mitigate flooding risks. 

By engaging a wide range of stakeholders—from residents and farmers to municipal leaders—the Council builds strong local stewardship and opens the door to state and federal funding for long-term watershed improvements.