Breaking up western spillway of lower Batavia dam on the Fox River in Illinois, Oct. 31, 2005. - Photo Courtesy of Kabbes Engineering, Inc.

The Fox River in northern Illinois is one of the highest-quality large streams in the state. However, the river is fragmented by a number of low dams that impede fish passage.  Most of these low-head dams were built to support industry or recreation and are no longer needed.  One such dam, located at the south side of the City of Batavia, began to fail in 2002. 

Throughout the regulatory review process, including feasibility studies, NEPA and Section 404 Clean Water Act reviews, and final design, the Chicago ES Field Office  participated in the Technical Advisory Group established to guide the effort.  The dam is owned by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County who obtained all necessary permits for its removal.  After the dam failed, plans were modified to reflect current conditions.  

A $25,000 grant was provided by the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Fisheries Habitat Fund.   During the week of October 24, 2005, crews removed the first (90 foot) section of the western spillway of the dam, which had two spillways separated by a reinforced island.  Additional funds totaling approximately $1.3 million will be used for removing or modifying remaining sections of the dam, and restoring this reach of the Fox River over the next year.