May 19, 2016

Mr. David Ross, Administrator

Rock Island County
1504 Third Avenue
Rock Island, IL 61201-8624

SUBJECT: Unpermitted fill near Barstow, IL

Dear Mr. Ross:

For several years both Rock Island County and this office have been aware of
unpermitted filling taking place within the floodway of the Rock River just south of
Barstow, Illinois. This unpermitted activity started as sandbags left on site after flood
fighting but has gradually increased over the years and is now a permanent structure.

In accordance with the Rivers, Lakes and Streams Act, 615 ILCS 5, a construction
permit is required from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Office of Water
Resources for work such as this. A search of our records indicates that this project has
not been authorized. Because these activities have not been authorized by Rock Island
County, they are also considered violations of the local floodplain ordinance.

Therefore, the responsible parties or landowners should be notified that no further

construction should be undertaken until such time as all necessary authorization(s)
have been received. Without permit authorization, the fill materials must be
removed from the floodway. Please be aware that the engineering required to obtain
a permit as well as permit fees may be very expensive and time consuming, therefore,
removal may be the best (and cheapest) option.

Should you have any questions comments, please dont hesitate to contact me at 217-
782-4428 or Regional Permit Engineer Mark McCauley at (217) 524-1047.

Sincerely,

Paul A. Osman, Manager

Statewide Floodplain Programs