Upper Fox River, Chain O' Lakes closed to boating

The Fox River/Chain O' Lakes has been closed to recreational boating, from the Algonquin Dam to the Wisconsin state line, as state and local police officers think it is too dangerous because of high water levels.

State conservation police made the decision at 1 p.m. Friday, and commanders of the marine units in Lake and McHenry counties concurred, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Police cited a swift current, floating debris, submerged structures and piers, and the presence of ice as hazards.

However, the city of McHenry will still be able to dye a portion of the river green at 9 a.m. Saturday for the McHenry ShamROCKS two-day festival, which celebrates St. Patrick's Day.

All dam locks are open.

The IDNR's water resources office expects the waterway to hit its crest in Fox Lake on March 19, along with the Fox River at the Stratton Dam tailgater. It expects the Algonquin Dam tailgater to crest March 20.