Creek Studies
The Town of Normal follows model ordinances to protect native vegetation and uses stormwater best management practices for managing detention basins, ditches and stream buffers. This approach was created collaboratively with the McLean County Ecology Action Center, Illinois State University and experts at Cardno, an agency dedicated to improving environments.
These organizations also have collaborated to better inform residents about these practices and create awareness about how they benefit the environment. Residents have expressed concern about the impact the new maintenance philosophy and practices have on the wildlife, insects and vegetation.
Through the collaboration, the Town of Normal, the Ecology Action Center and Illinois State University have identified mutually beneficial opportunities for meaningful student involvement. As a result, as of Fall 2021, two efforts underway to learn more about creeks, detention basins, ditches and streams.
Identifying active wildlife
Animal cameras have been erected in Anderson Park and at Hidden Creek Sanctuary to identify and count the animals active in these areas. These areas represent work that has already been completed (Anderson Park) and work scheduled to be done in 2022 (Hidden Creek).
The trail cameras focus on the ground level and the animals traveling through. Should any images of people be captured (most likely feet/legs), the images will not be saved and will be deleted. Learn more about the data and images from the Normal Wildlife Project.
For questions about this study, contact:
Dr. Catherine O’Reilly, Illinois State University
Cathy Oloffson, Town of Normal
Vegetation and insect data collection
In September 2022, Illinois State University students are using areas around the Town of Normal as labs, collecting data about vegetation and insects where work has already been completed, as well as areas where work is planned. Students will collect data along waterways at the following locations:
Week of Sept. 12:
- Anderson Park - west of the tennis courts
- Hidden Creek - northeast corner
- Fairview Park - along the waterway
- Epiphany Church - north of college, west of church
- Shoppes at College Hills - northwest of Vernon/Towanda Ave.
Week of Sept. 19
- Heather Ridge - along Constitution Trail
- Oakdale School - behind the school, east side of waterway
- Linden Ave. - south of Shelbourne, east of Linden
- Blair Dr. - north of Courtland, east of Blair
- Ft. Jesse - behind Ft. Jesse Cafe complex
For questions about this work, contact:
Dr. Matthew Dugas, Illinois State University
Cathy Oloffson, Town of Normal
Creek FAQs
Why have some areas been allowed to deteriorate?
The Town of Normal is dedicated to doing a better job of maintaining these areas throughout Normal.
In 2018, the Town of Normal adopted a stream buffer ordinance to protect, establish and maintain vegetation in buffer and wetland areas to help address excessive erosion and promote a more natural environment.
The ordinance established new methods for maintaining vegetation in these areas and established protection of water quality, effectively changing the way the Town maintained these areas and the frequency with which they are mowed. The Town does not wish to see areas of overgrowth or extreme weediness any more than citizens; however, it is taking time to implement these new practices.
Why doesn’t the creek in my area look like the area across the street?
When the Town adopted new practices, these stream buffer and detention basin areas were in various states of repair, from newly restored areas to areas with considerable overgrowth with trees and other vegetation. The Town implemented a five-year plan to address these areas and contracted with a company to a initiate the remediation.
Why can’t I put my grass clippings in the creek?
Dumping grass clippings in the creek or along detention basins harms the waterways and creeks. Decomposing yard waste creates more nitrogen and phosphorus which results in more algae. Throwing leaves and grass clippings into streams, ponds and waterways causes water pollution. And, the added leaves and grass clippings decrease water storage capacity.
What kind of chemicals are used in spraying?
Chemicals used to treat these areas are environmentally friendly.
Why doesn’t the Town mow as frequently as it used to?
The Town of Normal has adopted a more natural approach to maintaining these areas. Each area is different and a one-size-fits-all approach does not work. Mowing frequency is determined by many factors, including weather, the time of year, staffing availability and access. Hot, dry summers slow growth and lessen the frequency of mowing times, while summers with more rain lead to accelerated growth.
Why were trees removed from the creek/detention basin?
Removing invasive trees is part of the Town's best management practices. Invasive trees (e.g. willow trees) dominate the ecosystem, stifle growth and prevent native vegetation.