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The IDNR headquarters at 1 Natural Resources Way in Springfield has experienced a power outage and tree damage throughout the grounds as a result of severe storms in the area. The agency expects to reopen the building to the public on Monday, June 15, 2026, though this could be subject to change. Check back here for an update before planning to visit the office in person.

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Fox River Stratton Operations Status Update

William G. Stratton-Thomas A. Bolger Lock and Dam

Algonquin Dam

IDNR 2026 Operating Schedule for Stratton Lock

MCHENRY, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) operating schedule for the William G. Stratton-Thomas A. Bolger Lock and Dam facility on the Fox River in McHenry County, opens for the 2026 season on Friday, May 1. 

Normal operating hours will be seven days per week from 8:00 a.m. until midnight during the months of May through September, and 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. for the month of October.

The Stratton-Bolger facility is closed for the winter season each year from November 1 through April 30.  

Questionnaires

Boat-Ground Impact Survey
Boat-Ground Impact Map
Water-level Economic Impact Survey
Fox River/Chain of Lakes Flood Reporting

UPDATES

Fox River Update 6/12/2026

To view the full update, click the hyperlink above

*This Update is based on the current forecast and will be adjusted based on future forecasts and rainfall.

SUMMARY

There is currently just over 1.50” of rain forecasted for the watershed over the next 7 Days. Inflows are forecasted to peak tomorrow at just over 2500 cfs (Figure 1). The Chain is currently forecasted to peak Monday at 4.55’ on the Fox Lake gage with the Upper River and Pool being slightly lower (Figure 2). The Lower River is forecasted to peak Monday as well at near 3.20’ on the tailwater gage (Figure 3).

Stratton Dam Operations Manual 2025