That is the question!
Should the river be allowed to spread out in times of high water, or should it be contained in channels, behind seawalls and levees? Well, it depends who you ask. Not even conservationists always agree.
At the Emiquon Preserve near Havana, the discussion is ongoing. Emiquon’s 7,000 acres of backwaters and wetlands are home to hundreds of species of birds and fish. Should it remain separated from the river, cutting off the river’s potential for bringing sediment, silt and carp? Or should it be opened to the river and allowed to “breathe” as water levels rise and fall? This interesting article from the Tribune does a good job of explaining both sides.
The Peoria Journal Star wrote about Emiquon earlier this summer.
The Emiquon Preserve’s website offers a full description of the area, with beautiful photos.
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