Illinois River Initiative

Beginning as a spring-fed stream near Hogeye, Arkansas, the Illinois River flows 140 miles through Northwest Arkansas and Oklahoma. It flows into Lake Tenkiller and meets the Arkansas River in Sequoyah County near Gore, Oklahoma. In Oklahoma, it is a state designated Scenic River.

Approximately 45% of this 1.1 million acre watershed lies in Arkansas, primarily in Washington and Benton Counties, with a small portion in Crawford County. Every summer, thousands of people flock to the river to swim, paddle, and fish, providing recreational opportunities for both Arkansans and Oklahomans. Protection of water quality in the river and its watershed is critical for safeguarding wildlife habitat, recreation opportunities, and drinking water quality for cities such as Siloam Springs. Sediment and nutrient pollution from agriculture, urban development, failing septic systems, streambank erosion, and legacy phosphorus in soils are primary concerns for improving and protecting water quality in the Illinois River.

NWALT is committed to working with landowners within the Illinois River Watershed to protect lands for the permanent protection of the river and its tributaries.