Sept 9, Peoria, IL

We left Starved Rock Marina early and passed through the Starved Rock Lock (17') with no difficulty or wait. Sky is overcast and there is a mist on the water. Air temperature is in the low 60's and the water temperature is 77.

Rock outcropping across from the Starved Rock Lock

Maybe this is Starved Rock?

More as we go along

A few large industrial plants are spotted along the mostly rural countryside. We see very few homes and it must be because of the severe flooding that occurs every few years.

Gravel operation

Miles and miles of wilderness on both sides

Exposed roots shows the erosion.
The water level is low.

A couple of interesting sights today. We overtake the Tug THURSTON MORTON that is pushing 15 (3 wide x 5 ahead) barges and taking up most of the channel. He is moving slowly and so we pass, also slowly, and be sure to stay out of his way. We see ten sets of barges being pushed today.

THURSTON MORTON pushing 15 barges.

There are several very large flocks (several hundred in each) of White Pelicans as we enter Lake Peoria. Almost looks like the large flocks of birds we saw in Africa. Very large flocks and very beautiful. Wonder if they are getting ready to migrate.

White Pelicans.

In all we travelled 66 miles today and are spending the night at the Illinois Valley Yacht Club (IVY Club) just north of Peoria. Very nice spot with all the services and a restaurant. This is the last fuel for the next 165 miles until we get to the Mississippi so we top off the tanks. Water level is low in Lake Peoria so depth going into the marina is only about 4.5 feet, but we do not touch. Lots of 'Loopers' here all moving south.

Illinois Valley Yacht Club.

We get some news and pictures from home that we have to share. Ashley (5) catches and releases her first sailfish with a little help from her dad, aboard the KOKOMO in Stuart, Florida. Congratulations Ashley and Dan.