N. Aurora to seek grants to create artificial stream

By Denise linke For The Beacon-News Feb 12, 2011 8:46PM

http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/news/2784609-418/river-stream-alliance-aurora-district.html

NORTH AURORA — The village has decided to join in the effort by the North Aurora River District Alliance to get two grants to build an artificial stream along the Fox River Trail this spring.

The 125-foot stream would re-use rainwater collected from the roof of Village Hall to display several aquatic ecosystems, said River District Alliance Vice Chairman Jennifer Duncan.

A wetlands section would filter the rainwater, which would then flow into a series of interactive areas including waterfalls, a mill sluice with a waterwheel, several shallow pools visitors can wade in and a stepping stone crossing. Signs would explain the ecological significance of each section, while solar panels would power lights along the stream as well as the pump that will circulate the water.

A bicycle rack would encourage families to bike to the riverfront and would enable cyclists on the trail to stop and visit the stream.

“We feel this project is the best way to enhance the riverfront,” Duncan said recently.

“It’s environmentally friendly, fiscally friendly and family friendly. It would show the village that NOARDA is serious about improving the riverfront.”

Trustees agreed to apply to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and to the Kane County Riverboat Funds for grants to finance the $80,000 project.

“This won’t be using any fresh water. It’s showing people how to use rainwater,” said Trustee Chris Faber, who also serves as treasurer of the River District Alliance. “Schools and park districts will be able to use this to show students how they can conserve water.”