The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Chicago District has released for public comment the draft Integrated Feasibility Report/Environmental Assessment on the potential impacts associated with ecosystem restoration of the South Branch Pike River in Kenosha County, Wisconsin.
The proposed project would restore approximately 1.5 miles of the South Branch Pike River between Highway K and Highway S in Kenosha County, Wisconsin to a natural condition. The proposed project includes re-establishing natural hydrology by disabling drain tiles and planting native plants to restore native habitats, including marsh, wet prairie, prairie and forest. The project will also re-meander the South Branch Pike River to a more natural river channel and connect the river channel to its floodplain. In-stream channel habitat consisting of riffles and large woody debris is included in the proposed plan, as well as a multi-use trail for access.
As part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) public review process, the USACE Chicago District is accepting comments or concerns the public might have about potential impacts to the environment from this proposed project. This could include any impacts to neighborhoods and communities, and to various habitats, threatened and endangered species, or cultural and social resources.
The report and appendices are available online on the Chicago District’s Project webpage: https://www.lrc.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works-Projects/South-Branch-Pike-River/
Public comments must be received by January 6, 2022. Comments can be submitted via email to Elizabeth.A.Reiner@usace.army.mil or via postal mail to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Chicago District, ATTN: Beth Reiner (South Branch Pike River), 231 S. LaSalle St. (Suite 1500), Chicago, IL, 60604. Questions can also be directed to Reiner at (312) 846-5525.
A public meeting will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on December 14, 2021, at Kenosha County Center, 19600 75th Street, Bristol, WI. Both written and verbal public comments will be accepted at the meeting.