Education
Education through engagement
The MWRD’s community engagement work includes providing educational resources at community events, educational speakers, guided group tours through our world-class facilities, and sharing knowledge about clean water advancements through our Monitoring and Research Seminar Series.
Community Engagement
The MWRD offers educational presentations for community groups and schools to inform residents about wastewater treatment and stormwater management. The MWRD also participates in community and special events, providing free resources for all ages helping residents learn about wastewater treatment, flood reduction and water quality improvements within our service area and how they can help.
Tours
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago facilities are open for tours! In-person tours are scheduled by appointment only at our seven water reclamation plants (WRPs) throughout Cook County.
Virtual Tours
Travel back in time to early Chicago to see how the MWRD reversed the Chicago River and developed wastewater treatment technology. Go behind the scenes and underwater to see how we transform water. Descend 300 feet into the deep tunnel system. Watch our electrofishing crew at work sampling fish on the Chicago River.
K–12 Learning
These activities and resources are a fun way to learn about the MWRD and how to protect the water environment.
Publications
The MWRD has a wide range of publications about the water environment and reducing flooding.
Monitoring and Research Seminar Series
The MWRD hosts a seminar series at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant that is open to the public.
“Where Does IT Go?” is a children’s storybook and award-winning animated video about the wastewater treatment process. Three Water Science Explorers are curious about what happens when they flush the toilet. Yadira, Paul, and Jessica set off on a special mission to explore the mystery of where pee, poop and toilet paper go. They also explore the many water career opportunities! The storybook offers STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) workbook activities.