Coles County, IL – Efforts to improve water quality in the Mattoon area are getting a major boost thanks to a $40,000 grant from the Lumpkin Family Foundation, according to the University of Illinois Extension.
The funding will support a community-based project focused on restoring and protecting local drinking water sources. The initiative includes a Watershed Stewards education program and distribution of native plant kits designed to reduce runoff and improve water filtration across Coles County.
According to the Extension, the project will teach residents sustainable landscaping and stormwater management practices that can help reduce pollution reaching area lakes and reservoirs.
The announcement follows two separate incidents in July when Mattoon’s drinking water supply was temporarily shut down. Water samples at that time tested positive for high levels of a neurotoxin produced by harmful algal blooms, prompting widespread concern among residents.
Officials say the new program aims to prevent similar contamination events in the future by engaging the community directly in water conservation and native plant restoration.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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