The Fox Waterway Agency is a "special unit of local government" created by the State of Illinois, is the proud caretaker of this jewel of the Midwest with services ranging from environmental construction, to tourism, to community support. While baseline programs in dredging-for-navigation, managing the 500+ U.S. ATONS-approved buoy system, and debris/customer concerns round out our mandated responsibilities, the Fox Waterway Agency is also involved in a wide-range of public benefit programs and community support activities to enhance the recreational and tourist opportunities in this natural resource. The forefathers of the Agency saw an Agency that "coordinated the efforts of Federal, State and local partners", and we do that well.

View of Pistakee Lake from FWA Headquarters

Only an hour's drive from Chicago, Milwaukee, and Rockford, the Illinois Fox River Chain O'Lakes ranks as the most popular inland wateway in the entire United States. With over 7,100 acres of water, 15 lakes and 45 miles of river, this "Key West of the Midwest" accommodates every water-borne activity ranging from hunting and fishing to swimming, tubing, and boating, and appeals to everyone from families and couples, to the more adventurous. Chicagoland's playground for over 100 years also boasts some of the best restaurants and marinas, two State Parks and other entertainment venues unique only to the Chain O'Lakes.