Root River Watershed
Root River Watershed
The Root River is one of the most prominent features of the City of Racine. The name “Racine” is French for “root,” reflecting the river’s central role in the city’s founding and importance. The river was instrumental to early trade and industry, and today, it continues to shape the community and environment. The 198-square-mile watershed faces challenges, including low dissolved oxygen, high levels of bacteria, phosphorus, and sediment, and significant erosion. These issues affect the river’s health and may impact the quality of water at nearby North and Zoo Beaches.
To improve water quality and restore the river’s ecosystem, the City of Racine and other municipalities are working together. The Root River Watershed Restoration Plan outlines strategies for improving the health of the river including green infrastructure, streambank restoration, erosion control, and water quality monitoring. These efforts aim to reduce pollutants and improve recreational access and habitat in the river and Lake Michigan.
Root River Monitoring
The City of Racine Public Health Department Laboratory conducts weekly monitoring of the Root River, tracking water quality at key locations and stormwater outfalls. This monitoring helps identify pollution sources and ensures compliance with environmental regulations. The City of Racine is required by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR) to reduce polluted stormwater runoff under the city’s MS4 permit (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System). This permit mandates the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) for stormwater management to protect water resources.
Root River Report Card & Data Analysis Report
To learn about the health of the Root River, the Root River Report Card provides an easy-to-read summary of water quality, pollution levels, and overall river health. It includes important data on factors such as bacteria levels, dissolved oxygen, and sediment, helping to highlight both challenges and progress. For more detailed information, the Data Analysis Report (Baseline Assessment of Water Quality in Support of the Root River Restoration Plan, 2014) is also available.
Public Outreach
In addition to monitoring, the Public Health Department Laboratory engages residents and businesses to reduce illicit discharges into stormwater infrastructure (e.g., inlet grates). Educational decals have been placed on inlet grates that drain to the Root River or Lake Michigan to inform residents of the “No Dumping” policy. Furthermore, door hangers and postcards have been distributed to residences located in stormwater basins that drain directly into Lake Michigan.
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