University News

Lake Ruth Clean-Up Continues

May 30, 2008

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MACOMB, IL -- More than 30 dump truck loads of sediment have been removed to date from Western Illinois University's Lake Ruth as part of a massive clean-up of the picturesque campus landmark.

According to Dennis Wells, Physical Plant civil engineer III, work completed thus far includes draining the lake, removing the sediment and transporting it to the University farm and brush removal.

As part of the project, aquatic animals continue to be relocated, and upon advice from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the family of geese that had called Lake Ruth home were not relocated; however, they have left the area on their own. But it hasn't just been the wildlife that has been protected during this project. Physical Plant personnel have also taken great care to preserve the trees surrounding the lake, particularly what is known as the Lake Ruth Sycamore, based on advice from Todd Degner, a consultant with The Care of Trees, a professional arboricultural firm. The 60-year-old tree, which leans over Lake Ruth, will remain undisturbed during the dredging project; however, it will be braced or fencing will be installed, if necessary.

The next step in the clean-up process includes using an excavator with a 60-ft. boom to reach further out into the lake bottom. Wells said during the month of June crews will continue to keep the lake drawn down while it is cleared of at least 2,000-cubic-yards (roughly 2,500 tons) of sediment.

Lake Ruth will require approximately 500,000 gallons of water to fill it to the appropriate level once the work is complete. While it's the hope that Mother Nature will take care of some of the water replenishment, Wells said that the filling process may need to be supplemented by additional water sources.

Lake Ruth was created in 1908 by John M. Keefer, a local businessman and head of the campus grounds committee, who developed this campus landmark by damming up a small ravine. Clara Bayliss, the wife of Western President Alfred Bayliss, was asked to name the lake and suggested Lake Ruth, in honor of Keefer's daughter.

For more information about the dredging project, contact Wells at 309/298-1834 or by e-mail at DK-Wells@wiu.edu.




Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing