Cherokee Stormwater Improvements

The City of Cherokee used IDALS Water Quality Initiative funds to install a bioretention basin near the Community Center centrally located within the city.  This project will provide water quality treatment of urban runoff, thereby reducing the nutrient and sediment loading to Railroad Creek, which ultimately discharges into the Little Sioux River.  With its close proximity to the high school and Central and Gillette Parks, it will serve beneficial education purposes with local students and the public, as well as promote water recreation uses such as boating and fishing.  The City partnered with multiple organizations, including the Cherokee Community School District, the Community Center, the Parks Department, the County Conservation Board, the Soil & Water Conservation District, and the Cherokee Area Economic Development Corporation.

Luke Gravenish, Public Works Superintendent for the City of Cherokee, remarked, “The bioretention basin is an efficient and effective way to remove pollutants from storm water runoff.  It also helps with some volume control of storm water and improves natural habitats and aesthetics with relatively low maintenance.”