Fox Waterway Agency Secures $2.4M Marina to Combat Sediment!

URGENT UPDATE: The Fox Waterway Agency has just announced a pivotal $2.4 million purchase of the Bauske Boat Basin marina, a strategic move aimed at improving water quality and maintaining recreational access in the Chain O’ Lakes area. This acquisition is set to enhance sediment removal efforts, directly benefiting both tourism and local residents.

Located between Nippersink and Pistakee lakes, the marina is essential for the agency’s mission to manage the 7,100 acres of the Fox River and Chain. Last year alone, the agency extracted approximately 100,000 cubic yards of sediment—equivalent to 6,000 dump trucks—to keep the waterways navigable. “We’re taking out as much as estimated comes in every year,” said Joe Keller, the agency’s executive director. “Grass Lake alone is estimated to have millions of cubic yards of sediment that should be taken out.”

The urgency of this purchase stems from severe flooding issues, particularly in the Fox River section flowing beneath Route 12. This area narrows significantly, creating bottlenecks that require “regular and efficient access” for maintenance. Keller emphasized the importance of the marina location, stating, “The fact it’s located at the heart of this system is a game changer for us.”

Funding for the marina acquisition is supported by two grants totaling $2 million from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, further solidifying the agency’s commitment to tackling flood risks and environmental health. The Bauske marina has been available for sale for years, but its acquisition now places it under the agency’s control, allowing for more effective sediment management.

The agency relies heavily on boat sticker sales, generating about $2.5 million last year from approximately 23,000 stickers. Additionally, the agency produces nutrient-rich topsoil from sediment removal, earning about $70,000 in 2024. This financial model underscores the agency’s innovative approach to funding critical environmental maintenance.

The marina’s purchase has sparked discussions within the community. Fox Lake officials previously eyed the site for development, but with this new direction, Mayor Donny Schmit acknowledged the benefits of sediment removal for the village, saying, “They’ve got to do what they’ve got to do.”

As the agency navigates future plans for the marina, including potential tax-exempt status, Keller indicated that all options remain open. The agency is currently negotiating with the Bauske brothers to continue operations in the coming year.

This acquisition marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to preserve the recreational and environmental quality of the Chain O’ Lakes. The Fox Waterway Agency is poised to enhance its capabilities in maintaining this vital waterway, ensuring it remains a cherished destination for both residents and tourists alike.

Stay tuned for more developments on this critical initiative as the agency works to implement its plans in the coming months.