SKOKIE CONSOLIDATED DRAINAGE DISTRICT
Past Projects
East Fork - North Chicago Two-Stage Channel Projects
2014-2015
A surface channel was constructed for Skokie River flows previously conveyed in underground pipes with the creation of approximately 2,000 linear feet of above ground two-stage channel at sites owned by Proctor and Gamble and Commonwealth Edison in North Chicago. The two-stage channel provides water quality benefits with a native plant buffer and aquatic habitat being provided. The two-stage channel also improves storage and conveyance of stormwater flows by eliminating the failing underground pipes.
North Chicago Daylighting 2-Stage Channel
Project received the 2015 Best Management Practice Project of the Year Award
East Fork - Lake Forest Stabilization Project, Phases 1 and 2
2020-2023
Lake Forest channel improvement stabilization
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.
This project has resulted in expanded and protected riparian habitats, reduced water pollution, protected the riverbanks from erosion, and increased biodiversity.
