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TO: Mayor Richard C.Irvin
FROM: Brian Witkowski, New Development Coordinator
DATE: 5/1/23
SUBJECT:
Resolution authorizing payment to the Fox River Study Group to conduct water quality studies of the Fox River and implement a plan for improving water quality.
PURPOSE:
To adopt a resolution authorizing payment to the Fox River Study Group from the 2023 through and including the 2026 budget.
BACKGROUND:
Starting in 1998, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has included the Fox River on Illinois' 303(d) list of impaired waterways. Federal law requires that a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Study be conducted for waterways that are listed on the State's 303(d) list. In 2001, the Fox River Study Group was formed to plan and conduct a TMDL Study of the Fox River. The Fox River Study Group is a diverse coalition of stakeholders and is supported by financial contributions from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Fox Metro Water Reclamation District, Sierra Club, Aurora, Algonquin, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, Yorkville, Elgin, Fox River Water Reclamation District, Yorkville-Bristol Sanitary District, Crystal Lake, Illinois State Water Survey, and Kane County.
The Study Group has recently updated the FRIP (Fox River Implementation Plan) and is focused on future water quality. This update was delivered to the IEPA in December 2022. One key part of this update was predictive modelling of actions to eliminate nuisance algae blooms and correct dissolved oxygen problems seen along specific sections of the river. The model evaluated different nutrient reduction strategies from agriculture and municipalities as well as removal of dams for cost and effectiveness in meeting water quality goals.
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The Fox River Study Group's commitment to science for public policy guidance is key to creating environmental and economic success. Maintaining strong community-wide support will help assure the continued restoration and recovery of this invaluable regio...
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