Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) Report
Application Information
Applications will not be processed until all required items have been received by the Ogle County SWCD.
Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) Report Overview
NRI stands for Natural Resource Inventory Report. These reports are required when an applicant seeks a zoning change, variance, or special use permit, and they serve as an assessment of the natural resources present on a specific parcel of land.
The report provides natural resource data to the applicant, local officials, and other decision-makers so they can make informed land-use decisions related to:
*Variations, amendments, or relief from local zoning ordinances
*Proposed subdivision of vacant or agricultural lands
*Development of newly subdivided lands
NRI reports are mandated under Section 22.02a of the Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts Act, originally enacted by the Illinois General Assembly in 1937.
Section 405/22.02a Requirements:
*The local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) must make all natural resource information available to the appropriate county or municipal agency for use in zoning decisions.
*Any individual or entity petitioning for a zoning variation, amendment, or other relief, or proposing to subdivide vacant or agricultural land, must submit a copy of the petition or proposal to the SWCD.
*The SWCD has up to 30 days from receipt of the petition or proposal to issue a written opinion and submit it to the relevant county or municipal agency.
Purpose and Intent of an NRI
The goal of an NRI is to present the most current natural resource information in a clear, accessible format. The report includes:
*A description of current site conditions
*An inventory of the siteās natural resources
*An assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed land-use change
Natural resource data are compiled from standardized datasets, on-site evaluations, and information provided by the applicant.
Use of the NRI in Land-Use Decisions
The NRI serves as a foundational resource for responsible decision-making regarding land-use changes and development, helping to ensure the protection of the countyās natural resource base.
While the NRI is an important planning tool, it is not a substitute for detailed environmental or engineering studies. Rather, it should be used in conjunction with such studies when needed.
Fee Schedule
A fee of $500 for the first 5.0 acres and $250 per additional acre evaluated will be charged.
Payment is required to initiate the 30-day processing period. Please note that this is a nonrefundable payment.
Please make checks payable: Ogle County SWCD.
Where to Submit Applications:
Applications, payments (cash or check), and all other required information must be dropped off at our office located in the USDA Service Center; 1213 Pines Road in Oregon, Illinois. Please call our office at (815) 732-6127 extension 3 if you have any questions.