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Conservation District Restrictions

Condos in our subdivision may or may not be directly adjacent to land owned by the Boone County Conservation District (BCCD). The majority of the affected condos are located on the south side of Rivers Edge Drive, but the regulations apply to all. This natural land nearby is managed as a buffer between our development and the Kishwaukee River corridor and serves to protect the river from urban runoff and residential activities bordering the river. There are certain activities that can and cannot be done on the land owned and managed by the Boone County Conservation District. 

BCCD strives to be a "good" neighbor but is concerned about encroachments and other activities that occur. The District's mission statement is to: “Preserve and manage natural areas and open spaces for ecological, educational, and recreational benefits of present and future generations.” BCCD is not a park district where intensive landscaping and manicured lawn area is the typical tradition. Their primary emphasis is placed on ecological restoration and enhancement. This improves native habitat, helps preserve or improve water quality, and provides opportunities for a multitude of passive recreational activities. We want you to enjoy your experience on BCCD managed lands, but we ask that you treat the conservation lands with the same respect as you would the property of your neighbor on the left or right side of your home. 

A few specific issues relative to the BCCD owned and managed property: 
  • Mowing grassy vegetation and/or cutting down/pruning trees, shrubs, brush, or other vegetation is illegal. 
  • Planting non-native vegetation is illegal. 
  • Dumping refuse, fill material, soil, yard debris, or other debris is illegal.
  • Removal or disturbance of plants, animals, or natural features, unless authorized in writing by special use permit, is strictly prohibited and is illegal. 
  • Constructing stairways to the river, creating pathways, placing paving stones or other landscaping materials, building sheds, installing dog kennels or any other improvement on BCCD property is illegal. Gardens, landscaping of any kind (including clearing and seeding to grass), children's play equipment, dog houses, swings and other things are all considered major encroachments if they have been placed on the narrow property located between the homes and the Kishwaukee River. 
In addition to the land owned by the BCCD, there is a 20-foot-wide easement that runs along the rear lot line of homes bordering the conservation land. This easement places restrictions on that portion of the property to further protect the Kishwaukee River and the natural lands along it and to reduce disturbing this portion of the property. The natural vegetation helps protect the steep bluff from excessive erosion, which could seriously impact buildings and foundations. Properties nearest the river are most at risk, as natural processes could undercut the river bank, causing slope failure. To minimize the potential risk, storm water runoff from roof tops, driveways, and backyard areas should be diverted to the development's storm water management system and not toward the bluff area.

Thank you for observing the rules and regulations created to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all. For a complete listing of BCCD rules and regulations, site maps, program information or other upcoming events and activities please visit: Boone County Conservation District.