Chicken waste in Illinois River

The water quality of the Illinois River has gone to the birds. Experts say the state needs to reduce phosphorus levels in the Illinois by 50% to 70%. <br><br>They say runoff chicken waste creates a nutrient

Monday, December 3rd 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The water quality of the Illinois River has gone to the birds. Experts say the state needs to reduce phosphorus levels in the Illinois by 50% to 70%.

They say runoff chicken waste creates a nutrient overload in the river, which causes excess algae growth and pollution. Environmental experts want the state to hold poultry farmers to tougher standards in order to improve the river's quality.