Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP) .

NESP combines both Navigation Improvements with Ecosystem Restoration into a single long-term program on both the UMR and Lower Illinois River. Its authorization was included in the Water Resources Development Act of Fall 2007. General current components of NESP and their 2004 cost estimates for the entire 50-year project are listed below:

• Navigation Improvements: Capital costs of $2.4 billion for 7 new 1,200 foot-long locks, potentially 5 lock extensions, up to 7 new moorings and up to 8 new switchboats at locks.

• Ecosystem Restoration: $5.72 billion for 1,010 projects over a 50 year period, $4.25 billion fully federally-funded.

More information on this program will be added in the near future.

Source: USACE, UMR-IWW System Navigation Feasibility Study Final Integrated Feasibility Report and PEIS (September 2004)

Illinois Cost Share obligations for NESP:

Recent NESP Reports:

1. Corps of Engineers August 2007 Economic Re-evaluation Interim Report (2.6 mbs)
2. Nicollet Island Coalition responsed to the Corps of Engineers Economic Re-evaluation Interim Report on September 27, 2007. To view the response click this link: NIC Response (2.2 mbs)
3. Corps of Engineers December 2007 Updated Economic Re-evaluation Interim Report (1.9 mbs); includes Benefit to Cost Ratios for High Traffic Scenario (1.3), Low Traffic Scenario (.4) and Flat or Falling Traffic Condition (.2 or less) Note: A Benefit to Cost Ratio of 1.0 means for every dollar spent on a project only one dollar is returned in benefits.