Project Description and Background
The Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (CSSC) is a man-made waterway that connects the Chicago and the Des Plaines Rivers forming an aquatic connection between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River basin. Dispersal barriers were constructed to generate an in-water electric field to prevent the spread of invasive fish species between these watersheds.
A demonstration dispersal barrier (Barrier I) has been operating since 2002. More permanent, higher power dispersal barriers were constructed in segments, Barrier IIA in 2009, Barrier IIB in 2009, Barrier IN in 2019, and Barrier IS in 2024.
Having several Barriers for redundancy, Uninterrupted Power Sources (UPS), and standby backup generators all support any loss of utility power.
Current Status
Construction carry-in funds are being used to equip the Barrier I southern electrode array, conduct equipment testing, and continue real estate acquisition activities.
O&M budget amount is being used to continue operation and maintenance of Barriers I and II, and maintenance of measures installed to prevent bypasses around the barriers during flood events.
O&M funded activities include oversight of the IIA enclosure project, site paving, system cooling upgrades, and installation of non-conductive fencing.
Project Authorization
Sec 3061, Water Resources Development Act of 2007
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