The purpose of this website is to keep the public informed about how the ongoing drought conditions and low lake levels may impact U.S. Army Corps of Engineers missions in the Chicago region.  

  One of the Chicago District's primary missions is operating the Chicago Lock and maintaining seven harbors along the Illinois and Indiana shoreline. Information about the Chicago Lock and area harbors are available on this website.  

  Other Army Corps of Engineer offices cover other aspects of water levels and impact on navigation. The Detroit District is responsible for monitoring and forecasting water levels on the Great Lakes. Information about water levels, including current conditions and forecasting information can be found on their website at www.lre.usace.army.mil. The Rock Island District maintains navigation on the Illinois Waterways and operates the T.J. O'Brien Lock on the south side of Chicago. Navigation information can be found on their website at www.mvr.usace.army.mil.

  There are also other agencies involved in issues related to area waterways. The Metropolitan water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) focuses on protecting the quality of the water supply source (Lake Michigan) and improving the quality of water in area watercourses. Information about MRD can be found on their website at www.mwrd.org.

  Please contact our public affairs office if you have any questions or comments.