Hilary: Let me know, if you have any questions about this report. Thanks:

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1 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Becker, Jennifer - NRCS, Belvidere, IL Hilary Arther NRI #1518, Special Use at 56 & 100 U.S. Route 20 Rockford, IL Thursday, March 23, :29:06 PM NRI #1518 Final.pdf Hilary: Attached is a pdf of NRI #1518. I will have a hard copy with me to give to you tomorrow morning after the Ag. Commission Meeting. I have provided this report to the applicant, Charles Thompson with William Charles Real Estate and the Boone County Health Department. We will also have this report on record in the District Office. I have also ed this pdf to John Mayville, their attorney. Upon request, I will mail John Mayville a hardcopy of the report. Let me know, if you have any questions about this report. Thanks: Jennifer Becker Administrative Coordinator Boone County Soil & Water Conservation District 211 N. Appleton Rd. Belvidere, IL Ext. 3 This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the immediately.

2 BOONE COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NATURAL RESOURCE INFORMATION REPORT NRI Report Number: 1518 Applicant s Name: William Charles Real Estate Investments LLC Location: 56 and 100 U.S. Route 20 Rockford, IL Applicant s Request: Special Use within A-1 for truck parking Property Code Number: and Acreage: 8.47 Charles Thompson Contact Person: cthompson@williamcharles.com Date: 3/23/2017 Report prepared by: Jennifer Becker Position: Resource Analyst 1

3 Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Page Purpose and Intent... 3 Location Maps Figure 1: General Location... 5 Figure 2: Specific Location... 6 Site Photographs Figure 3: Site Overview... 6 Figure 4: Topography and Area of Interest... 7 Figure 5: Division of Parcels... 7 Figure 6: Onsite Buildings... 8 Figure 7: Drainage Cover... 8 Figure 8: Prevalent Drainage... 9 Figure 9: Drainage... 9 Figure 10: Bedrock and Surficial Deposits Figure 11: Quarry Land Evaluation Table 1: Land Evaluation Soils Information Table 2: Soil Map Unit Description Figure 12: Web Soil Survey Soil Types Soil Interpretations Explanation Soil Limitations/Building Limitations Table 3: Soil Conditions and Limitations for Proposed Use Figure 13: Dwellings with and without Basements Figure 14: Small Commercial Buildings Figure 15: Septic Tank Absorption Fields Figure 16: Shallow Excavation Agricultural Areas and Farmland Information Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Figure 17: Erosion and Sediment Hazard Drainage, Flooding, & Hydric Soils Flood Information Figure 18: FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (F.I.R.M.) Figure 19: Flooding and Ponding Frequency Watershed Impacts: Drainage and Runoff Characteristics of the Watershed Affecting This Site Position of Site Area in Relation to Watershed Size of Drainage Area and Topographic Information Affecting This Site... 27

4 Figure 20: Watershed Wetland Information and Regulations Importance of Wetland Information Regulatory Agencies Geologic Information Significance Geological Framework Bedrock Geology Subsurface Hydrology Figure 21: Troy Bedrock Valley Figure 22: Expected Bedrock Cultural Resources Information Biological Resources What is Biological Diversity and Why Should It Be Conserved? EcoCAT Figure 23: EcoCAT Land Use Plans Figure 24: Comprehensive Plan for Boone County Overview Opinion of the BCSWCD Board Glossary References PURPOSE AND INTENT This Natural Resource Information (NRI) report has been prepared by the Boone County Soil & Water Conservation District. This report is a requirement under the Illinois Soil and Water Conservation District Act, 94 Act Ill Compiled Statutes, Chapter 70 Paragraph 405/1 Et Seq. and Illinois Revised Statutes, Chapter 5 paragraph 106 Et Seq. This report presents natural resource information to officials of the local governing body and other decision-makers. Decisions concerning variations, amendments, or relief of local zoning ordinances may reference this report. Also, decisions concerning the future of a proposed subdivision of vacant or agricultural lands, and the subsequent development of these lands because of these decisions, may reference this report. This report intends to present the most current natural resource information available in an understandable format. It contains a description of the present conditions and resources available and their potential impact on each other. This report, when used properly, will provide the basis for good land use change decisions and proper development while protecting the natural resource base of Boone County. It should not be used in place of detailed environmental and/or engineering studies that are warranted under most circumstances, but in conjunction with those studies. Due to limitations of scale encountered with the various resource maps, the property boundaries depicted in this report provide a generalized representation of the property location; however, the boundaries may not precisely reflect the legal description of the property. 3

5 The interpretations of soil suitability for various uses are based on criteria published in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service National Soil Survey Handbook, Title 430-VI. Soil features and characteristics are as described in the Soil Survey of Boone County, Illinois. The conclusions of this report in no way indicate the impossibility of a certain land use. However, it should alert the reader to possible problems that may occur if the capabilities of the land are ignored. Additional references are cited throughout the text of this report and are listed in the Reference Section. Most of these references are technical publications specific to one topic area. A field visit to the site was made to verify the general physiographic characteristics of the area. No soil borings were taken during the visit. Any questions on the technical data supplied in this report, or if anyone would like to see additional specific information to make the report more effective, please contact: Boone County Soil & Water Conservation District 211 North Appleton Rd. Belvidere, Illinois Phone: (815) Ext. 3 Jennifer.becker@il.nacdnet.net Chuck Thompson, on behalf of William Charles Real Estate Investments, LLC, has submitted a request for a Natural Resource Information Report for zoning change at 56 & 100 U.S. Route 20 Rockford, Illinois. The site is located in Section 19 of Belvidere Township (Figure 1). The Area of Interest (AOI) is on the Winnebago and Boone County Line. The area in this report is comprised of two parcels: and and is approximately 8.5 acres. A copy of the report was sent to the applicant, Boone County Planning Department, Boone County Health Department, and is on file at the Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District. 4

6 Figure 1: General Location of NRI 1518 Figure 1. General location of NRI 1518 is illustrated with a red dot. Site location is in Boone County, Illinois approximately four miles northwest of Belvidere on U.S. Route 20 in Rockford, Illinois *Map source: Boone County Highway Department file:///h:/k-t/nri's/nri%201518/boone%20county%20illinois%20highway%20map.pdf. Figure 2: Specific Site 5

7 Figure 2: Specific Site Location Figure 2. Shows the specific location of the AOI, outlined in red. The site is located in Section 19 in Township 44 North and Range 3 East of the Third Principle Meridian. This figure illustrates two parcels: and located at 56 and 100 U.S. Route 20, Rockford, Illinois This site is approximately 8.5 acres. *Source: Boone County Geographic Information Systems. Figure 3: Site Overview Figure 3. Photograph illustrates the view of the parcels for special use in A-1 district and orientation is east. 6

8 Figure 4: Topography and Area of Interest Figure 4. The topography of this site has steep slopes. Open spaces were covered mostly with gravel with fluvial erosion present onsite. Photograph orientation is to the northeast. Figure 5: Division of Parcels Figure 5. Two different parcels are separated by fencing. Open parking areas are covered in gravel with some evidence of fluvial erosion. Photograph orientation is to the southwest looking toward the Williams Charles Main Office Building. 7

9 Figure 6: Onsite Buildings Figure 6. Buildings were found on the eastern portion of the site. Photograph orientation to the east. Figure 7: Drainage Cover Figure 7. Prevalent and quick moving drainage was present onsite during time of inspection. There were several areas with small holes and drainage covers with sounds of moving water. This is a main drainage cover onsite. 8

10 Figure 8: Prevalent Drainage Figure 8. A prevalent and quick moving drainage area was found onsite and adjacent to the quarry. Figure 9: Drainage Figure 9. This photograph illustrates the prevalent drainage way with water exiting the parcel. On the south side of East State Street/Highway 20 there was a large amount of ponding water during the time of the inspection. Photograph orientation south-southwest. 9

11 Figure 10: Bedrock and Surficial Deposits Figure 10. This photograph illustrates bedrock and surficial at the surface from the onsite quarry. Several areas had water dripping out of the bedrock with sand and gravel deposits evident. Photograph orientation to the east. Figure 11. Quarry Figure 11. View of the bedrock, surficial deposits, and quarry. Buildings onsite and Williams Charles Main Office (offsite) are visible. The photograph orientation is to the south and was taken just north of the parcel boundary. 10

12 LAND EVALUATION The Boone County Soil and Water Conservation District (BCSWCD) cooperates with the Boone County Planning Commission in the evaluation of zoning requests for Land Evaluation Site Assessments (LESA). The Planning Department staff evaluates the site assessment portion of LESA and BCSWCD staff prepares the land evaluation portion of this review. LESA was developed by the United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, now known as the Natural Resource Conservation Service, and takes into consideration local conditions, such as physical characteristics of the land, compatibility of surrounding land-uses, urban growth factors, and landuse policies determined by local government. LESA was designed to be used in connection with the county s land-use plan, zoning ordinances, and other polices being used to decide land-use changes. Decision makers use LESA to determine the suitability of a land use change and/or a zoning request as it relates to agricultural land. LESA is a two step procedure that includes: Land Evaluation (LE). This encompasses information regarding soils found onsite and their suitability for agricultural purposes. For purposes of the Land Evaluation portion of LESA, each soil is assigned a relative value number from 0 to 100, a 0 being the worst soil for crop production, and 100 being the best soil. The Boone County SWCD provides a weighted average of the soils to determine the Land Evaluation. Site Assessment (SA). This identifies and weighs 13 criteria, other than soils information, which contribute to the quality of a site for agricultural uses. The Boone County Planning Department provides the Site Assessment portion. In summary, LESA addresses soils information, to provide a rational, consistent, and unbiased determination of the impact to agriculture from the proposed land use and zoning changes. The June 2012 revised LESA was used to calculate the land evaluation (LE) score. Based on the soil charts in the revised LESA a table was created for the various soil types found on parcels: and The information from the AOI were used to create Table 1. Buildings and existing structures on the parcels have already been converted to non-agricultural uses and have been given a zero based on the revised LESA. The agricultural value was multiplied by the number of acres of the soil type (Table 1). The total product was then divided by the total number of acres of the parcel being evaluated. Thus, the LE was calculated to be points based on the revised LESA (Table 1). The BCSWCD Board has established a policy to oppose zoning changes with land evaluation scores higher than 69. Parcels scoring 69 points or higher in Boone County are identified as being prime agricultural land. Agriculture land uses should be interpreted to mean all agricultural and related uses that can be considered to be part of the farm operation. This would include: farmland, pasture, truck farms, or timber lands, whether or not in current production. 11

13 Table 1: Land Evaluation Process Soil Map Unit Percentage of Site Area Approximate Acres Agricultural Value LE Score 199B Plano silt loam B Argyle silt loam D2 Kidder loam D2 Griswold loam Pits and Gravel Buildings <1 <1 0 0 Total Overall Site LE Score Table 1. Buildings and existing structures on the parcels have already been converted to non-agricultural uses and have been given a zero based on the revised LESA. The agricultural value was multiplied by the number of acres of the soil type. The total product was then divided by the total number of acres of the parcel being evaluated. Thus, the LE was calculated to be points. *Sources: Boone County Geographic Information Systems, NRCS Web Soil Survey, and Revised June 2012 Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) System for Boone County, Illinois. SOILS INFORMATION Soils information ordinarily applies to the upper five feet of soil material. This information is vital for all parties involved in determining the suitability of the proposed land use change. Because of the scale of the soil survey map, small areas of soil may differ from the dominant soil, which may not be included in mapping units. Limitations are based on predictions of soil behavior under defined conditions of use and management. In most cases, severe or very severe limitations do not imply that the proposed activity cannot be done on that soil type; however reasons for the limitation need to be thoroughly understood and dealt with in order to complete the proposed activity successfully. Depending on the kind of limitation, alteration of the soil for the proposed activity could be difficult and costly. Each soil map unit has limitations for a variety of land uses, such as septic systems and buildings with basements. When mapping a soil unit, a soil polygon is given a number, which represents the soil type. The letter found after the soil number indicates the slope. The number after the letter represents soils that are eroded or severely eroded. These classifications are helpful to understand how soil properties impact proposed land use change. It is important to remember that soils do not function independently of each other. Soil properties partially depend upon the physical properties of adjacent soil types, the presence of artificial drainage, soil compaction, and its position in the local landscape. Soil interpretations do not eliminate the need for on-site evaluations by qualified professionals. The extent of onsite investigations needed depends on the proposed use of the soil, the soil type, and soil limitations. 12

14 Table 2: Soil Map Unit Description Soil Map Unit Soil Name Percent Slope Approximate Acres in Area of Interests 199B Plano silt loam 2-5% B Argyle silt loam 2-5% D2 Kidder loam 6-12% D2 Griswold loam 6-12% Pits and Gravel N/A 3.9 Total for Area of Interests 8.5 Table 2. This illustrates four different soil types with pits and gravel. The letter following the soil number indicates the slope of the soil types and the number following a letter represents soils that are eroded or severely eroded. The table also shows how many acres of a specific soil type are found on the property. After rounding to the nearest tenth acres, the AOI is based on 8.5 acres instead of 8.47 acres. *Source: United States Department of Agriculture- Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 13

15 Figure 12: Web Soil Survey Soil Types Figure 12. This depicts various soil types. Refer to Table 1 and 2 for soils information. The general area is outlined in red. The blue line represents drainage to the southeast. *Source: United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 14

16 SOIL INTERPRETATIONS EXPLANATION A soil survey is prepared by soil scientists who determine the properties of soils and predict soil behavior for a plethora of reasons. These predictions, often called soil interpretations, are developed to help users of soils manage the resource. These interpretative ratings help engineers, planners, and others understand soil performance when used for non-agricultural uses such as building site development or construction materials. This report gives ratings for proposed uses in terms of limitations and restrictive features. Ratings come from the soil s natural state, which means, no unusual modification of the site or soil material is made other than what is considered normal practice for the rated use. Even though soils may have limitations, an engineer may be able to alter a soil s feature or adjust building plans for a structure to compensate for most limitations. These practices may be costly. The final decision in selecting a site for a particular use generally involves weighing the costs for site preparation and maintenance. Soil properties influence development of building sites, including the selection of the site, the design of the structure, construction, performance after construction, and maintenance. Soils are placed in three classes according to their limitation or suitability for certain engineering uses. Soils are rated for the uses expected to be important or potentially important to users of soil survey information. The rating system of slight or not limited, moderate or somewhat limited, and severe or very limited are given for the types of proposed improvements that are listed or inferred by the petitioner as entered on the report application and/or zoning petition. Building Limitations Building on poorly suited or unsuited soils can present problems to future property owners such as cracked foundations, wet basements, lowered structural integrity and high maintenance costs associated with these issues. The staff of Boone County Soil & Water Conservation District strongly urges scrutiny by the plat reviewers to avoid approving parcels with these soils exclusively. Limitation Ratings: 1. Slight or Not Limited. This soil has favorable properties for the use. The degree of limitation is minor and can be overcome easily. Good performance and low maintenance can be expected. 2. Moderate or Somewhat Limited. This soil has moderately favorable properties for the use. Special planning, design, or maintenance can overcome this degree of limitation. During some part of the year, the expected performance is less desirable than for soils rated slight. 3. Severe or Very Limited. This soil has one or more properties that are unfavorable for the rated use. These may include the following: steep slopes, bedrock near the surface, flooding, high shrink-swell potential, a seasonal high water table, or low strength. This degree of limitation generally requires major soil reclamation, special design, or intensive maintenance, which may be difficult and costly. 15

17 Table 3: Soil Conditions Limitation for Proposed Use Soil Unit 199B 227B 361D2 363D2 865 Soil Name and Percent Slope Plano silt loam 2-5% Argyle silt loam 2-5% Kidder loam 6-12% Griswold loam 6-12% Pits and Gravel Dwellings with Basements Dwellings without Basements Small Commercial Buildings Shallow Excavation Septic Tank Absorption Fields Local Roads and Streets Erosion and Sediment Hazard Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Severe Severe Moderate Slight Slight Not Limited Moderate Severe Severe Moderate Moderate Moderate Very limited Moderate Severe Moderate Severe Slight Slight Very limited Moderate Severe Moderate Moderate N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Table 3. This illustrates soil limitations based on potential land uses. *Source: NRCS Web Soil Survey. 16

18 Figure 13: Dwellings With and Without Basements Figure 13. This illustrates soil limitations for dwellings with and without basements. The AOI is outlined in red. Yellow soils have a moderate limitation and green have slight limitation (Table 3). Please refer to Table 2 for approximate acres covered by each soil type. *Source: United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 17

19 Figure 14: Small Commercial Buildings Figure 14. This illustrates building potential for small commercial buildings. NRCS Web Soil Survey defines small commercial buildings as: buildings less than 3 stories without a basement. The AOI is outlined in red. Red soils have a severe limitation, yellow soils have a moderate limitation, and green soils have a slight limitation (Table 3). Please refer to Table 2 for approximate acres covered by each soil type. *Source: United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 18

20 Figure 15: Septic Tank Absorption Fields Figure 15. This illustrates soil limitations of septic absorption fields. The AOI is outlined in red. The soils in red have severe limitations and soil in yellow has a moderate limitation (Table 3). *Source: United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 19

21 Figure 16: Shallow Excavations Figure 16. This illustrates limitations of excavating. NRCS Web Soil Survey defines shallow excavation as trenches of holes dug to a maximum depth of 5-6 feet for utility lines, open ditches, or other purposes. The AOI is outlined in red. All soils have a moderate limitation (Table 3). *Source: United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 20

22 Agricultural Areas & Farmland Information There are no officially designated agricultural areas within 1.5 miles of these parcels. Agricultural practices occurring on land adjacent to these parcels may have adverse impacts on the proposed land use change. Noise, dust, chemical applications, odors, and other conditions associated with local agricultural practices may become a nuisance to the proposed development. It is possible that this proposed change may have an effect on the established agricultural activities surrounding this site. Increased traffic, traffic congestion during peak periods of agricultural activity, such as planting and harvest time, nuisance complaints, and the development of restrictions on existing agricultural practices might result from such continued development. All of these factors need to be considered in light of the long-term coexistence being proposed. Some of the most productive soils in the United State occur locally. Each soil map unit in the United States is assigned a prime or non-prime rating. Prime farmland has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, and fiber; it has a high soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to economically produce high yields of crops when treated and managed according to modern farming methods (NRCS Federal Register Vol. 43, No. 21, January 31, 1978). Prime agricultural land can be cropland, pastureland, rangeland, or forest land, and does not need to be in the production of food and fiber. The NRCS general manual title 310 Subpart C the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA) Rule, 7CFR defines farmland as prime or unique farmland determined by the appropriate state or unit of local government agency to be farmland of statewide importance. Section also states farmland does not include land already in or committed to urban development or water storage, thus urban or built-up land on prime soil is not considered prime farmland. Generally farmland of statewide importance includes land that are nearly prime agricultural soils, but not prime, and economically produce high yields of crops when treated and managed according to acceptable farming methods (NRCS Federal Register Vol. 43, No. 21, January 31, 1978). This site is not within close proximity to any agricultural areas. This site also has a low LESA score with only about one acre of high valued agricultural land (Table 3). Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Erosion is the wearing away of the soil by water, wind, and other forces. Soil erosion threatens the nation s soil productivity and contributes pollutants to waterways. Water causes about two thirds of erosion on agricultural land. Four primary properties determine a soils erodibility: 1) texture, 2) slope, 3) structure, and 4) organic matter content. Slope has the most influence on the soil erosion potential when the site is under construction. Erosivity and runoff increase as the slope gradient increases. The runoff then exerts more force on the particles and carries them farther before deposition. The longer water flows along a slope before reaching waterways, the greater erosion potential. Soil erosion during and after this proposed construction can be a source of water pollution. Eroded soil during the construction phase can create unsafe conditions on roadways, clog streams and drainage channels, cause deterioration of aquatic habitats, and increase water treatment costs. Soil erosion also increases the risk of flooding by choking culverts, ditches, storm sewers, and reducing the capacity of natural and man-made detention facilities. General principles of erosion and sedimentation control measures include: 1) reducing or diverting flow from exposed areas, storing flows, or limiting runoff from exposed areas; 2) staging construction in order to keep disturbed areas to a minimum; 3) establishing or maintaining temporary or permanent ground cover; 4) retaining sediment onsite; and 5) properly installing, inspecting, and maintaining control measures. 21

23 Erosion control practices are useful only if they are properly located, installed, inspected, and maintained. The BCSWCD recommends an erosion control plan for all building sites, especially if there is a wetland or stream nearby. Figure 17: Erosion and Sediment Hazard Figure 17. This illustrates soil susceptible to erosion. A moderate erosion rating is depicted in greenish yellow and it is likely some erosion will occur and simple erosion control methods will be needed. A severe erosion rating is depicted in orange with significant erosion expected. *Source: United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey. 22

24 Drainage, Flooding, & Hydric Soils Information Slope information determines steepness and erosion potential. Drainage directions determine where water leaves the AOI and drainage issues may impact water quality. The drainage area of the site is approximately 582 acres. The elevation has a gradual slope with an elevation change of about 100 feet with potential for surface water to leave the site, which is beneficial for groundwater recharge to aquifers. Flood Information A floodplain is defined as land adjoining a watercourse or an inland depression that is subject to periodic inundation by high water. Floodplains are important areas demanding protection since they have water storage and conveyance functions which affect upstream and downstream flows. They provide water quality and quantity benefits and are suitable areas for human activity. Since floodplains play distinct and vital roles in the hydrological cycle, development that interferes with their hydrological and biological functions should be carefully considered. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) produces maps, which show areas of possible flooding (zone X) mapped on site (Figure 15). Common terminology when referring to floodplains includes one hundred and five hundred year flood events. A one hundred year flood means, an area has a 1% chance of a flood event occurring every year (FEMA.gov). A five hundred year flood means, an area has a 0.2% chance of a flood event occurring every year (FEMA.gov). 23

25 Figure 18: Flood Insurance Rate Map (F.I.R.M.) Zone X: Area of Minimal Flood Hazard Boone county line Shaw Road Winnebago county line Zone X: Area of Minimal Flood Hazard U.S. Route 20 Figure 18. This is a Flood Insurance Rate Map (F.I.R.M) used to map floodway boundaries. This illustrates there are no floodplains found on the AOI (outlined in red), but a zone X highlighted in orange. Zone X is defined as an area of 0.2% annual chance flood; areas of 1% annual chance flood with average depths of less than 1 foot or with drainage areas less than 1 square miles; and areas protected by levees from 1% annual chance flood. *Source: Another indication of flooding potential can be found in the soils information. When mapped at a site location, hydric soil indicates the presence of drainage ways and areas subject to ponding, a naturally occurring high water table, and frequent flooding. These need to be considered along with the floodplain information when developing the site plan and the stormwater management plan. This site does not include hydric soils and all types are considered to be well-drained. 24

26 Figure 19: Flooding and Ponding Frequency Figure 19. This illustrates the ponding and flooding frequency. Red indicates soils that do not frequently flood or pond. *Source: Untied States Department of Agriculture- Natural Resources Conservation Service, Web Soil Survey. 25

27 WATERSHED IMPACTS: DRAINAGE AND RUNOFF A watershed is an area of land that drains into a specific point, like a stream, lake, or other water body. High points on the Earth s surface, such as hills and ridges define watersheds. When precipitation falls into a watershed, it flows towards a body of water. Water may carry pollutants, such as oils, pesticides, and soil particles. Dramatic changes occur as a watershed is converted from an undeveloped landscape to a more urbanized and developed landscape. This is largely due to changes in ground cover. Areas planted to crops, grass, or other vegetation can absorb a certain percentage of water from precipitation. A portion of this water becomes groundwater. The majority of the water that does not become absorbed into the soil runs across the surface as sheet flow, which is water not concentrated into some type of natural or constructed channel; or concentrated flow, which is water concentrated into some type of natural or constructed channel. Natural drainage systems develop a complex and interactive system that allows for the conveyance, storage, and overflow of surface water runoff. The various components of this system are continuously adapting to accommodate the current flow conditions. When land development occurs, one or more components of the natural drainage system can be disrupted. Changes to the drainage system are easily over-looked when there is little development pressure; but as development pressures expand and encompass a greater watershed area, changes become obvious. The usual cause and effect resulting from urbanizing land development within a given watershed results in the following conditions: 1. There is usually an increase in the volume of surface water runoff being contributed to the watershed. This is typically the result of an increase of impervious surfaces, such as roads, driveways, and building roof tops. Impervious surfaces now occupy land area in the watershed that would have absorbed a percentage of the precipitation. 2. The time of concentration is shortened. Water gets to the stream channel sooner than when it was allowed to flow under natural conditions. Precipitation that falls onto an urbanized portion of a watershed is manipulated to maximize efficient drainage. Beginning with the rain gutter on your roof, rainwater or snowmelt is routed offsite and downstream as quickly and efficiently as possible. The combined effect of the increased volume of flow and shortened time of concentration causes several reactions including, but not limited to: 1. Increased magnitude and frequency of severe floods 2. Increased frequency of erosive bank full floods 3. More annual runoff volume as storm flow 4. Less annual runoff volume as base flow 5. Higher velocities of water 6. Groundwater recharge may be significantly reduced 7. The watershed system becomes impaired and degraded In many areas, land uses are not restricted to the upland portion of the watershed. Urbanized development may also occur in and along the floodplains of streams and rivers in the watershed. Natural floodplains act as buffers by providing storage area for floodwaters. Urbanized development in a floodplain occupies storage area for floodwater, which may cause flood impacts. In addition, those urbanized areas are much more likely to experience flood related damage as well. 26

28 Characteristics of the Watershed Affecting This Site Position of Site Area in Relation to Watershed: The property is located less than one mile from Beaver Creek. It is located in the Beaver Creek Watershed, a sub watershed of the Kishwaukee River Watershed. *Source: Mapping Solutions GIS 2016 Winnebago-Boone County Plat Book. Size of Drainage Area and Topographic Information Affecting This Site: The size of the drainage area is approximately 582 acres. The highest elevation is 814 feet and the lowest elevation is 720 feet above sea level. * Source: Boone County Geographic Information Systems (G.I.S.). Figure 20: Watershed Figure 20. This illustrates the AOI and approximate watershed boundaries. The AOI is represented by the red square and the approximate watershed boundary is outlined in blue. The highest elevation is 814 in the southwest corner. The lowest elevation is 720 within the quarry. Source: USGS 7.5 Minute Quadrangle Topographic Map. 27

29 Wetland Information and Regulations Importance of Wetland Information Wetlands function in many ways to provide numerous benefits to society. They control flooding by offering a slow release of excess water downstream or through the soil. They cleanse water by filtering out sediment and some pollutants, and can function as rechargers of groundwater. They also are essential breeding, rearing, and feeding grounds for many species of wildlife. From 2004 to 2009 the conterminous United States had an estimated million acres of wetlands or roughly about 2.7% of the land surface (Dahl, 2011). It has been estimated that over 95% of wetlands, approximately 7.6 million acres, that were historically present in Illinois have been destroyed since 1818 (IDOC, 1988). However, only recently has the true environmental significance of wetlands been recognized. For example, one acre of wetland can store million gallons of floodwater and is beneficial for reducing costs to replace property damage from a flood (EPA, 2001). These benefits are particularly valuable in urbanizing areas as development activity typically adversely affects water quality, increases the volume of stormwater runoff, and increases the demand for groundwater. In an area where many individual homes rely on shallow groundwater wells for domestic water supplies, activities that threaten potential groundwater recharge areas are contrary to the public good. Wetlands were not observed or mapped on this site (Boone County GIS, 2016 & USFWS, 2016). If development is planned near a stream, lake, wetland, or floodway, under the laws of the United States and the State of Illinois, certain agencies have been assigned specific and different regulatory roles which are designed to protect the waters within the boundaries of Illinois. These roles, when considered together, include protection of navigation channels and harbors, protection against floodway encroachments, maintenance and enhancement of water quality, protection of fish and wildlife habitat and recreational resources. Unregulated use of the water within the State of Illinois could permanently destroy or alter the character of these valuable resources and have an adverse impact on the public. Therefore it is important to contact the proper regulator authorities before performing any work associated with Illinois waters so that proper consideration and approval can be obtained. Regulatory Agencies: 1. Wetlands or U.S. Waters: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, Clock Tower Building, P.O. Box 2004, Rock Island, IL Phone: (309) Floodplains: Illinois Division of Water Resources (IDNR), District 1, 1000 Plaza Dr., Schaumburg, IL Phone: ( Water Quality/ Erosion Control: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Division of Water Pollution, Permit Section, Watershed Unit, 2200 Churchill Rd., Springfield, IL Phone: (217)

30 GEOLOGICAL INFORMATION Significance of Geological Information Geological information is an important component of each NRI report. Maps and reports of statewide scale can provide important information about a specific area's suitability for a given land use. Generalizations about the potential for groundwater contamination, development potential, and groundwater recharge can be made. The local geology is an important element of the natural resource base. Geological information used in this report is taken directly from Geology for Planning in Boone & Winnebago Counties (circular ). The Geologic Framework As glaciers advanced and retreated, the landscape was eroded, reshaped, and modified many times. In northern Boone County and northeastern Winnebago County, glacial drift is often more than 100 feet thick, and the topography is primarily controlled by erosion. The succession of geologic materials that constitutes the framework of Boone and Winnebago Counties can be generally categorized as (1) granite that forms the basement rock (bedrock); (2) sedimentary rocks, like shale, sandstone, dolomite; and (3) unconsolidated glacial deposits of pebbly clays, sand, and gravel. The geologic materials to a depth of 20 feet at this site are predicted to be surface mines, a mixed fill of bedrock or Quaternary deposits that have been disturbed according to plate 1 of the Illinois State Geologic Survey Circular 531. Bedrock Geology Bedrock is an important source of groundwater and bedrock near land surface are potential sources of rock and mineral products. Dolomite is the uppermost bedrock unit throughout most of Boone County. Due to fractures and openings found in dolomite, it may be a dependable source of groundwater. The Galena Formation, which is a medium to coarse-grained, partly cherty dolomite, is predicted to be the first bedrock unit at this site. This rock unit is predicted to exist approximately 20 feet below the ground surface. Subsurface Hydrology The Troy Bedrock Valley is an ancient valley, about 2-3 miles wide, which was covered by glacial sediments as the glaciers receded (figure 21). The Troy Bedrock Valley enters Boone County in the northeastern corner, from McHenry County and about two miles south of the Wisconsin State Line. It trends southwest through Boone County. The Troy Bedrock Valley plays an essential role when considering groundwater and recharge to aquifers. Groundwater recharge of the glacial drift aquifers is likely to occur locally within this terrane. Groundwater movement within this aquifer can be relatively fast and can be interconnected allowing water to move vast distances. Other aquifers exist within the bedrock and glacial deposits. These aquifers can be extensive laterally and may serve as a source for community and private water supplies. It is important to note that water tables are not static and can fluctuate because of seasonal and climatic conditions. Ground water recharge to aquifers in the Troy Bedrock Valley and the bedrock aquifers exposed at the interface of the glacial drift that fills this valley may be hydrologically connected. This is significant in that contaminants could possibly be introduced from one aquifer system to another, particularly in 29

31 areas where there is a concentration of deep wells or wells with high withdrawal rates. The site is west of a small tributary of the Troy Bedrock Valley; and the first layer of bedrock is predicted to be dolomite with sand and gravel deposits The intended special use for truck parking may not be the best use for these parcels because of the potential release of vehicle fluids, which could quickly infiltrate into bedrock aquifer(s). The soils and geology of this site are permeable and allow rapid infiltration of fluids. Best management practices (BMPs) need to be designed and implemented to address potential contaminants from all sources at this site if the proposed land use change is allowed. The ISGS Circular 531 plate 3 states there is a high potential for aquifer and groundwater contamination with locally steep slopes, which increase surface runoff. Figure 21: Troy Bedrock Valley Figure 21. Topography of the bedrock surface is illustrated in this figure. The AOI is indicated by a red dot. This indicates bedrock at this site is approximately 800 feet above sea level with deposits covering the bedrock (drift thickness) estimated to be about 50 feet thick. * Source: ISGS Circular

32 Figure 22: Boone County G.I.S. Map of Expected Bedrock Figure 18. This illustrates where bedrock is expected to be close to the ground surface and/or exposed. Red represents bedrock within 0-10 feet of the surface, orange represents bedrock within feet of the surface, and yellow represents bedrock within feet of the surface. * Source: Boone County Geographic Information Systems. CULTURAL RESOURCES INFORMATION Simply stated, cultural resources are all the past activities and accomplishments of people. They include the following: buildings; objects made or used by people; locations; and less tangible resources, such as stories, dance forms, and holiday traditions. The Soil and Water Conservation District most often encounters cultural resources as historical properties. These may be prehistoric or historical sites, buildings, structures, features, or objects. The most common type of historical property that the Soil and Water Conservation District may encounter is non-structural archaeological sites. These sites often extend below the soil surface, and must be protected against disruption by development or other earth moving activity if possible. Cultural resources are non-renewable because there is no way to grow a site to replace a disrupted site. Landowners with historical properties on their land have ownership of that historical property and may choose to collect or disturb a historical property on their own land. However, human remains, grave markers, burial mounds, and artifacts associated with graves and human remains over 100 years old, are protected by state law, regardless of private or public property. If an earth moving activity disturbs human remains, the landowner must contact the county coroner within 48 hours. 31

33 The National Historic Preservation Act entitles the National Historic Preservation Agency to review zoning, special use permits, and variation petitions for their impact on cultural and historical resources. The applicant is responsible for contacting the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency at (217) or BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES What is Biological Diversity and Why Should It Be Conserved? Biological diversity, or biodiversity, is the range of life on our planet. A more thorough definition is presented by botanist Peter H. Raven: At the simplest level, biodiversity is the sum total of all the plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms in the world, or in a particular area; all of their individual variation; and all of the interactions between them. It is the set of living organisms that make up the fabric of the planet Earth and allow it to function as is does, by capturing energy from the sun and using it to drive all of life s processes; by forming communities of organisms that have, through several billion years of life s history on Earth, altered the nature of the atmosphere, the soils and the water of our Planet; and by making possible the sustainability of our planet though their life activities now. (USEPA, 1994). It is not known how many species occur on our planet. Presently, about 1.4 million species have been named. It has been estimated that there are perhaps 9 million more that have not been identified (USEPA, 1994). What is known is that they are vanishing at an unprecedented rate. The reasons for protecting biological diversity are complex, but they fall into four major categories (USEPA, 1994). 1. Loss of diversity generally weakens entire natural systems. Healthy ecosystems tend to have many natural checks and balances. Every species plays a role in maintaining this system. When simplified by the loss of diversity, the system becomes more susceptible to natural and artificial perturbations. The chances of a system-wide collapse increases (USEPA, 1994). 2. Biological Diversity is a great untapped resource. Great benefits can be reaped from a single species. About 20 species provide 90% of the world s food. Of these 20, just three, wheat, maize and rice, supply over one half of that food (USEPA, 1994). 3. Humans and wildlife benefit from natural areas that depend on healthy ecosystems. The natural world supplies our air, our water, our food and supports human economic activity. Further, humans are creatures that evolved in a diverse natural environment between forest and grasslands (USEPA, 1994). 4. Species and natural systems are intrinsically valuable. As part of the Natural Resources Information Report, staff checks office maps to determine if any nature preserves are in the general vicinity of the parcel in question. If there is a nature preserve in the area, then that resource will be identified as part of the report. The SWCD recommends that every effort be made to protect that resource. Such efforts should include, but are not limited to, erosion control, sediment control, storm water management, and groundwater monitoring (USEPA, 1994). EcoCAT An Ecological Compliance Assessment Tool (EcoCAT) was used as a project planning tool to obtain information on threatened and endangered species (Figure 19). The applicant must submit an official consultation with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (Title 17 Ill. Admin. Code Part 1075) to determine potential impacts to Illinois Natural Area Inventory sites or state-listed threatened or endangered species. 32

34 Figure 23: EcoCAT Figure 23. This depicts the Ecological Compliance Assessment Tool, which was only used to obtain information on threatened and endangered species. The applicant must submit an official consultation to determine if any State listed threatened or endangered species exist on the site or in the immediate area. The AOI for this report is outlined in blue. 33

35 Land Use Plans Figure 24: Comprehensive Plan for Boone County Figure 24. This depicts the Boone County Comprehensive Plan. The comprehensive plan shows the AOI, outlined in black, as planned business (PB) and environmental corridor (EC). Planned Office (PO) is adjacent to the AOI. *Source: Boone County Geographic Information Systems. 34

36 Overview: This report details information on a number of natural resource topics. Most of the details for individual topics are present in a special section. This section highlights the natural resource concerns, which are most important to this site, the environment, and the community: 1. This site rates as having high potential for aquifer contamination, according to the Illinois Geologic Survey. Dolomite or extensive sand gravel aquifers are expected to occur at or near the ground surface; likewise, this site is near a western tributary of the Troy Bedrock Valley. The soil and geological deposits at this site are expected to be a mixture of a sand and gravel materials, are permeable, and allow infiltration of fluids. Fluids from vehicles, if not properly contained, could quickly infiltrate into bedrock aquifer(s). Future land uses at this site should be carefully planned and take into account the geologic sensitivity to groundwater contamination in this area. Water quality issues could arise due to the removal of surface materials that may filter out potential contaminants and expose local aquifers to the surface environment. Local water supplies could be affected by further expansion and development of the quarry on this site. Boone County may want to require a Groundwater Protection Plan to be prepared for this site if the proposed land use change is approved. Best management practices would need to be designed and implemented to address potential contaminants from all sources at this site. 2. If development occurs a stormwater management plan needs to be created and implemented to minimize impacts to the watershed. This site has steep slopes with potential for increased erosion. Approximately 582 acres of off-site drained area contributes drainage that passes through the site, which is less than one mile from Beaver Creek. 3. A drainage way goes through this site, has potential for flooding, and is classified by Federal Emergency Management Agency as zone X, which has the potential to transport contaminates into Beaver Creek. Although there is potential flooding there are no floodplains, wetlands, or hydric soils onsite. 4. If land use change occurs a mine reclamation needs to be prepared for the time when mining activity is completed. 5. The land evaluation score at this site is The majority of soils onsite are soils are identified non-prime agricultural land. This site is not located with 1.5 miles of any agricultural areas. 6. The Comprehensive Plan for Boone County identifies this site as planned business and environmental corridor, with planned offices nearby. Opinion of the BCSWCD Board The Boone County Soil & Water Conservation District Board has a favorable opinion of the proposed land use with stipulation that the Boone County Board may want to require a Groundwater Protection Plan to be prepared for this site if the proposed land use is approved. Best management practices would need to be designed and implemented to address potential contaminants from all sources at this site. This opinion is based on the comprehensive plan and similar zoning in the area; however the Board expressed concerns for groundwater contamination due to highly permeable soil and geological deposits. These and other concerns are stressed in the Overview section of the report. More detailed information for natural resource concerns are presented throughout the various sections of this document. 35