Work has begun on the removal of two low head dams in Danville. The first to be removed is known as the Danville dam, located in the Vermilion River behind the Public Safety Building. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources also released funding earlier this year for the removal of another dam on the North Fork River at Ellsworth Park.
The debate on whether the dams should be removed dates back more than five years. It was in 2013 that the director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced the state would recommend removing the dams. Some local fishermen objected saying it would be detrimental to fish habitat.
[These geese were enjoying the Ellsworth Park dam on Thursday. Soon they will have to find another spot to relax.]
Over the years several people have drowned at both locations, and signs had been posted upstream to warn canoeists about the danger that was ahead.
[This is the view downstream directly below the Danville dam.]
Both of the dams are slated to be removed this summer.
[Story and photos by News Director Bill Pickett. Note: You can click on the photos to enlarge them.]
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