AUTHORIZATION:  Section 1135 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 1986 allows the Corps of Engineers to study, design, and construct restoration projects adjacent to and near Corps projects. The original flood control levee was authorized by Section 5 of the Flood Control Act of 1936 (Public Law (PL) 738, 74th Congress

Location and Description:  Spunky Bottoms, located in the Little Creek Drainage District, is situated along the right descending bank of the Illinois River north of Meredosia, Illinois, and below the LaGrange Lock and Dam. This project will provide habitat restoration along the Illinois River by reconnecting the river with the backwater lakes and wetlands that once existed along the river. Possible project features include a fish passage structure through the Federal levee, mouth of tributary sediment traps, removal of the existing pumps and pump stations, pumping capability for a landowner to the south of the project, raising a township road, a low-profile berm, and restoration plantings.

Activities in FY 2010 ($50k)
- Sponsor coordination on Ecosystem Restoration Report (ERR)
- Submit draft feasibility report

ARRA Allocation thru 28 Feb 10 ($0)

Local Sponsor:  The Nature Conservancy.

Spunky Bottoms

Wetlands, Spring of 2000