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ELECTRIC FISH B ARRIER The electric fish barrier was constructed by the Corps of Engineers under
the authority of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Act to prevent Asian Carp
from entering Lake Michigan through the Illinois River system. The
barrier works by generating a low-voltage electric field across the canal
that prevents Asian Carp from migrating further upstream. Field testing
conducted by the Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers indicated
that the fish barrier posed a significant risk to commercial and recreational
navigation. To mitigate this risk, navigational and operational restrictions
have been placed on all vessels transiting through the barrier.
B a c k g r o u n d

United States Coast Guard marine
safety unit Chicago 63
0-986-
2155
ELECTRIC FISH B
ARRIER
The electrical dispersal barrier is located on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship
Canal between the north side of the Romeo Highway Bridge at Mile
Marker 296.1 and the aerial pipeline arch located at Mile Marker 296.7.
All vessels are prohibited from loitering in the vicinity of the electrical
dispersal barrier. All personnel on open decks must wear a Coast Guard
approved Type I personal flotation device while in the vicinity until
subsequent field testing determines the waters in this area do not pose
significant risk of electrical shock. Vessels may not moor or lay up on the
right or left descending banks. Vessels may not pass (meet or overtake) in
the vicinity and must make a SECURITE call when approaching the
barrier to announce intentions and work out passing arrangements on
either side. If a person falls into the water in the vicinity of the fish
barrier, efforts should be made to have the person removed from the
water outside the barrier field. Touching a person in the water in the
vicinity of the barrier may result in an electric shock. For questions or
additional information, contact Marine Safety Unit Chicago at (630) 986-
2155.
R e g u l a t e d n a v i g a t i o n a r e a