Lake County Gazette

On Friday, June 6, Congressman Brad Schneider visited Vernon Hills to address water pollution issues affecting Big and Little Bear Lakes in Century Park.

During his visit, Michael Burke of Christopher Burke Engineering and Jenn Biancalana of Tigris Lake Management provided an overview of the situation, drawing on findings from a 2024 ecological survey. The survey identified increased sedimentation and severe shoreline erosion as major contributors to declining water quality.

Big and Little Bear Lakes are part of a watershed that flows through Lake County into the Des Plaines River. Big Bear Lake is fed by Seavey Ditch, which originates in Kracklauer Park in Mundelein, passes through Libertyville, and enters Vernon Hills at Hawthorn Mellody Park before continuing through Lake Charles.

Local officials are seeking federal support for restoration efforts due to the absence of state funding. These efforts would complement ongoing sustainability initiatives in Lake Charles and along Seavey Ditch.

The proposed project aims to reduce water pollution, enhance wildlife habitat, and improve overall water quality. It also seeks to restore shorelines under pedestrian bridges, improve safety along lake edges, and maintain the lakes as recreational assets. Additionally, by preserving lake depth, the project supports stormwater management and ensures continued water flow to the Des Plaines River.