Published: May 16, 2008 10:17 pm         

Middle Fork River deemed ‘dangerous’

Local waterway reaches flood stage

DANVILLE — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has determined the conditions on the Middle Fork (Vermilion) River to be significantly dangerous to the public.

According to Ted Fisher, Vermilion County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator, the river has reached flood stage.

As a result, restricted boating on the Middle Fork River from the north boundary of the Middle Fork Fish and Wildlife Area to the south boundary of Kickapoo State Park is in effect as of Thursday until further notice.

“From now on,” Fisher said, “anything over 3½ feet will be enough for us to keep canoes off the river.”

Vermilion County Sheriff Pat Hartshorn, Conservation District Supervisor Mark Pittman and Fisher concurred with the assessment.