On April 7, the Pleasant Prairie Village Board approved an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network (Root-Pike WIN). The agreement outlines a plan for storm water information and education services that the network will provide to participating municipalities, 21 possible in all, throughout Kenosha, Racine and Milwaukee Counties.

Through the agreement, the Root-Pike WIN will assist municipalities in meeting the requirements associated with NR 216 to obtain a required storm water discharge permit. Root-Pike WIN will provide the Village with the KEEP OUR WATERS CLEAN program, which outlines an annual action plan and timetable to promote public education and involvement in improving storm water runoff quality. The plan also outlines goals, activities, and an evaluation process, and will coordinate the roles for the parties involved.

The ultimate goal of the agreement is to reduce the level of pollutants that are returned to our natural waterways through storm water runoff. The group will work to achieve their goal through public education and involvement of target groups, including: developers, builders, engineers, municipal employees, homeowners, landlords, small businesses, teachers and youth. Pleasant Prairie's cost for participating in the Keep Our Waters Clean Program is estimated to be $1,050 in 2008 and $2,205 in 2009. The Root-Pike WIN will also be applying for a grant to offset 70% of the project costs. For more information related to Pleasant Prairie's Clean Water efforts, please click here.