June 29, 2025 9:30a
(WGTD)---A model approach to dealing with stormwater and agricultural runoff is part of a project to expand Shoreland Lutheran High School in Somers.
A large stormwater regenerative conveyance system is under construction.
Simplified, the $2.9 million dollar project is essentially a series of rain gardens hooked up in parallel, according to Kristine Heiser of the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network. As it fills up with stormwater, the system pulls out pollutants before the water is released into outflows that lead to Lake Michigan.
Heiser says it’s a better than the standard stormwater retention pond. "So in a standard retention pond, the water is often too warm--it's filled up with geese so that puts a lot of phosphorous and e-coli into the water," she said. "With this system, you can improve your pollutant processing."
The regenerative system that’ll soon be in place is expected to become the largest such system in the country.
Speaking at a groundbreaking event held last week, Somers Village President George Stoner said the project is particularly welcome because it addresses a severe flooding problem in that area of the village.
Somers Shoreland Lutheran Principal and President Paul Scriver said the cost of the project is being covered by grants and donations.
It’s part of a multi-million dollar plan to expand the school. Construction could begin as early as this fall on a classroom addition.
Somers Shoreland is expected to have a record enrollment this fall of 470 students, according to Scriver.
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