Illinois River

One big, heavy gate, one bigger heavier crane — The first of four new miter gates was lowered into position at the LaGrange Lock Saturday morning. The gate measuring 63 feet wide and 24 feet tall and weighing 110 tons, was lowered into place by a $33 million crane capable of lifting one million pounds. (Photo by Brian DeLoche)

New gates being set at LaGrange lock

With the fall harvest season now in full swing, and a mid-October completion deadline looming,work on upgrading the LaGrange Lock & Dam project continues at… Login to continue reading Login…

Looking to the Past

A place called Moscow Bay

    When the great mass of ice began its steady retreat to the north some 10,000 years ago, it left wonderful gifts in its wake,… Login to continue reading Login…

Tight quarters— Heavy equipment operators have to keep their heads on swivels to operate safely and avoid other heavy machines operating in the tight space of the lock chamber at the LaGrange Lock & Dam. (Photo by Brian DeLoche.)

LaGrange lock undergoing major reconstruction

It took nearly three years to build and when it was completed, it was expected to last 50 years. Now 80 years later, the LaGrange… Login to continue reading Login…

Illinois River remains open to all boat traffic

    A lower than expected flood crest will allow all traffic on the Illinois River to continue.       In a teleconference meeting, members of… Login to continue reading Login…