By Andi Anderson
Water is one of the most essential resources, flowing quietly in the background of our lives. Whether it drizzles gently or pours heavily, it shapes our environment and communities.
That’s why the University of Illinois Extension focuses on helping people understand and manage water through its natural resources, environment, and energy program.
Eliana Brown serves as a water quality and stormwater specialist with Illinois Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant. She also directs the Red Oak Rain Garden. Her love for water began in childhood while fishing and swimming near her home, leading her to study environmental engineering.
Personal experiences with flooding inspired her to help others reduce flood risks by improving their properties.
Eliana’s journey with Extension began when she managed the campus stormwater compliance program. She enjoyed educating others about water and stormwater and saw an opportunity to do more through Extension.
Now, she leads a small team of designers and engineers, setting goals and working with county educators and collaborators across the state.
Each day is different — from supporting local water programs to filming educational videos. One of the most common questions Eliana receives is about building rain gardens. She enjoys guiding people and recommends visiting the Rainfall Management website for helpful tools.
This year, Eliana is excited to help update the bi-state Rainscaping Program. This effort aims to give people the knowledge and tools they need to support clean water in their own communities.
To learn more or connect with Extension’s experts, visit go.illinois.edu/NREEstaff. Illinois Extension continues to educate and empower people across the state through programs like Master Naturalists, Climate Stewards, and Watershed Stewards. These efforts help protect our environment and support healthier, more resilient communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zms
Categories: Illinois, Education