Constructed in two phases over a period of 4 years, this project improved channel conveyance and water quality by stabilizing approximately 1-mile of the Skokie River channel between Westleigh and Old Elm Roads in Lake Forest. The project included regrading and stabilizing the streambanks using bioengineering practices including log and stone toe with deep-rooted native vegetation and gabion baskets in areas that did not have sufficient area for pulling back streambanks.

The Lake Forest Skokie River stabilization project area was identified as a critical area for streambank stabilization in the North Branch Chicago River Watershed Based Plan due to severe erosion of the channel banks in this location.  Erosion resulted in property loss, river pollution, created safety concerns for private homeowners and a public walking path, and undermined public utilities.