FAQs Archive | Fox Waterway Agency

Q: When and where are the board meetings?

Generally they are the 4th Wednesday of each month, except during the holiday season, at our office, 45 S. Pistakee Lake Road, Fox Lake. For upcoming meeting dates and locations, visit our Meeting and Agendas page.

Q: Where can I find out what the current FWA projects are?

All current and past projects can be found on our interactive map. Each project contains a description, completion date and photos.

Q: How does the FWA decide where to place buoys?

We are responsible for Pistakee Lake up to the Wisconsin state line, where buoys are placed primarily for safety and to mark navigable channels. According to our Master Ordinance and the IDNR Administrative Code, areas south of Pistakee Lake are managed and maintained by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) at the Stratton Lock and Dam.

Q: When do buoys get placed and removed?

The buoys start being placed May 1st and are completed by Memorial Day. The buoys are removed between October 1st and October 15th.

Q: Where can I launch my boat?

We don’t have a public boat launch at our location. However, Chain O’Lakes State Park in Spring Grove (off Wilmot Road) offers a free public launch. For other options, many local marinas provide launching for a fee—it's best to call ahead to confirm availability and costs. You can also visit the Boating Lake County website for more information on public and private launch locations.

Q: How do I obtain an aquatic herbicide permit for weeds and algae?

To apply an aquatic herbicide in the Fox River or Chain O'Lakes waterway you must obtain a Letter of Permission (LOP) from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and have the treatment applied by a licensed applicator. Applications must be submitted to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Key Requirements and Process: Permit Type: A Letter of Permission (LOP) is required for both chemical and non-chemical (mechanical cutting) treatment, as per 17 Ill. Adm. Code Part 895. Application Submission: Complete the official IDNR Application for a Letter of Permission, which should be returned to the Division of Fisheries, 8916 Wilmot Road, Spring Grove, IL 60081. Licensed Applicator: All chemical treatments must be completed by a licensed applicator. Regulations: The treatment must use USEPA-approved/registered aquatic herbicides. Please note the Fox Waterway Agency does not issue this permit. You must contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources .