No-wake restriction for lower Fox River

The Fox Waterway Agency in Fox Lake announced a "no-wake" restriction is in place for the lower Fox River between the Stratton-Bolger Lock and Dam in McHenry south to the Algonquin Dam.

Agency officials said heavy rains recorded in Wisconsin earlier this week, coupled with the flooding from June, necessitated the restrictions.

Water levels in that area show the river has risen to the point where some homes in low-lying areas between McHenry and Algonquin have water on the property.

There are no restrictions on the Chain O' Lakes and the Fox River north of the dam in McHenry because water levels have not reached heights where flooding occurs.

No-wake means boats are not allowed to travel at faster than 5 mph on the waterway.

Officials are also asking boaters along the river to stay to the center of the navigation channel to relieve any damage to shorelines and property. Emergency and agency vessels are exempt from the no wake laws when responding to emergency situations.

For more information, please check out the Fox Waterway Agency Internet website at www.foxwaterway.org.