Dam needs structural repairs, state says

BY SHAW NEWS SERVICE The Oregon dam is showing its age. "There are structural concerns about the integrity of the dam downstream," said Arlan Juhl, with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which owns the dam. "There is a need to do something to stabilize that dam in the long term." In the 1970s, the capstones, which are large flat rocks, were back-filled into the river below the dam. The flow of the river has since undermined much of the stone, possibly exposing the steel sheet pilings, Juhl said. "I think there could be a structural issue with the dam," he said. "I would not expect the dam to be there in 25 years if nothing is done." Rebuilding the dam would cost millions, a project the state is not likely to authorize. "It isn't worth that to the state, but how important is the dam to Oregon?" Juhl asked. The dam creates deeper water upstream, allowing recreational boating between Oregon and Byron, and is a popular fishing spot for local anglers. It also provides a cooling pool for the Exelon Nuclear plant, several miles upstream. Were the cooling pool to change depth, it would affect the plant's production capabilities, but wouldn't cause any safety issues, plant spokesman Bob Kartheiser said. "The dam is very important to this city," Oregon Mayor Tom Stone said. "This community needs to get involved to solve this problem long term," Oregon Park District Executive Director Jim Coutts added.