WELCOME
Ottawa-A City Committed To Sustainable Floodplain Management
Throughout time, rivers have drawn civilization and development to their banks. They provide a natural resource that adds a plethora of assets to an area. Ottawa, Illinois located in north central Illinois, at the confluence of the Fox and Illinois River is no exception. From early Native American settlements, to the famous explorations of LaSalle and Marquette, the area has always been coveted for its location. While developing near rivers provides numerous benefits to a community, the natural function of a river basin can also bring many challenges, especially during flooding conditions. For these reasons, the City of Ottawa has worked diligently in trying to balance the River’s assets in a suitable manner.