The Little Grassy Lake dam and spillway structure on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is now over 80 years old. The age of this structure is beyond its engineered design life. To rehabilitate this structure for the future of southern Illinois and users of the Refuge, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) would like to notify the public that it has partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a Dam Safety Modification Study. This study will determine the extent of necessary repairs on the Little Grassy Lake spillway/dam structure to facilitate a design and rehabilitation construction plan. Over the duration of this study and construction repair, the extent of the disruption to users of Little Grassy Lake is currently unknown. What is known is that there is a high probability of impacts for five to seven years after an alternative is selected and construction of the newly designed structure is underway. Additional news releases will be announced as further information becomes available. An opportunity for public comment will occur through the NEPA process once alternatives are available for review.

The Little Grassy Campground and Marina is in the fifth year of the current concession contract. Due to the uncertainty of the lake conditions during the spillway project, the Service has decided to not renew the contract for the optional five- year extension. Sustainability of the concession operation during the rehabilitation project is the primary concern, as well as the condition and safety of the facilities. A modern spillway design could potentially change the surface elevation of the lake, requiring redesign and construction of docks, launches, and lakeside facilities. Further impacts are likely during the spillway repair due to potential impacts to the highway and bridge which cross the top of the existing dam. Road closures during the rehabilitation project could significantly affect access to the campground and nearby facilities during construction. For these reasons, use of the campground and marina will be paused and a concession contract will be re- evaluated in the future.

The Group Camps around Little Grassy Lake will continue to operate at their discretion. Lake levels may impact activities or offerings during the rehabilitation, and open communication with the camps will continue throughout this process. When possible, the Service will seek to allow all compatible water-based recreation activities on Little Grassy Lake throughout the duration of the study and project.

For additional information contact Justin Sexton, Refuge Manager at craborchard@fws.gov, 618-997-3344, or write to: Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, Attn: Little Grassy Lake updates 8588 Route 148, Marion, IL 62959.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. During this construction project, the Service plans to work with our partners to improve recreation opportunities at Little Grassy Lake for the American public for decades to come. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov. Connect with our Facebook page, follow our tweets, watch our YouTube Channel, and download photos from our Flickr page.