After more than two decades, the research is clear. Dam removal along the Fox River is the most effective, economical, and best way to rehabilitate water quality for our Fox River.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) held three public meetings to discuss the findings of the Tentatively Selected Plan, which recommends the removal of dams in Carpentersville, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia, North Aurora, Aurora, and Montgomery to improve habitat, water quality, and the health of the river in perpetuity. The USACE accepted public comments until November 6, 2023.
Click here to see the USACE’s website with its report and recommendations
Thank you to all who offered oral comments at any or all of the 3 public meetings, and also to the over 1000 who submitted a written comment during the 60 day period. The ACOE will offer responses categorically in mid December.
Together, WE are a strong voice for the Fox River.
Videos of the three public meetings, including public comments made at the meetings, are available to the public.
Make Your Voice Crystal Clear by signing FRSG’s Petition
Removing dams along the Fox River restores it to its natural, free-flowing state and reverses centuries of environmental decline
While the public meetings and public comments to gather local input have concluded, your voice can still be heard. Human activity in the Fox River Valley over the past two centuries has led to steady habitat loss and degradation, fragmentation, sedimentation, the influx of algae and invasive species, and the loss of native plants and animals.
The Fox River Study Group (FRSG), which has conducted extensive water quality sampling and river modeling has found that removal of the dams is the most cost effective means to improve water quality concerns that must be addressed, according to the Illinois EPA. Kane County is a contributing member of the Fox River Study Group.
The FRSG’s findings show there is overwhelming scientific research supporting a solution for reversing the Fox River’s habitat loss, pollution, and the dominance of invasive species. Removing dams along the Fox River restores it to its natural, free-flowing state and reverses centuries of environmental decline.
Learn more about the FRSG by visiting: https://www.foxriverstudygroup.org/river-restoration
The USACE plan recommends the removal of dams in Carpentersville, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia, North Aurora, Aurora, and Montgomery.
Removing Dams along the Fox River
- Restores a free-flowing current, reducing sedimentation and algae blooms while improving water quality
- Connects the river, supporting mussel, fish, and amphibian habitats
- Supports the restoration of habitat for native plants, birds, and small mammals along the riverbanks
- Enhances the Fox River’s ability to absorb and filter urban and agricultural runoff
- Provides increased opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and the use of small boats
- Removes the danger of drowning at dams
- Allows the Fox River to naturally solve many of the water quality problems we face without creating huge increases in utility bills
- Eliminates the annual operations and maintenance costs of dams
Find the latest information and news about river restoration on social media using these hashtags: #FreeTheFoxRiver #UnDamTheFoxRiver
