MWRD FLOW - August 2025
For the Love of Water (FLOW) is the MWRD monthly news summary.
In this edition:
Upcoming Events
Open House and Tour at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant set for Saturday, August 2
Join us for an open house and tour of the world's largest wastewater treatment facility on Saturday, August 2 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Stickney WRP is located at 6001 W. Pershing, Cicero, IL. Please dress for an industrial environment; wear closed toe shoes and pants. Bring your old or unwanted medications for proper disposal.
Black Women's Expo
MWRD President Kari K. Steele will host a session titled “Black Women in Water: Making Waves, Changing Tides” on August 3 from noon – 1 p.m. during the 2025 Black Women’s Expo at McCormick Place.
MWRD Commissioner Yumeka Brown, Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis and Principal Civil Engineer Lolita Thompson will discuss leadership, expertise, and lived experiences of Black women shaping the water industry and protecting communities across Cook County. STEM activities for all ages are also planned.
Monthly Virtual Tour set for Thursday, August 7 at 2 p.m.
Embark on a virtual tour with the MWRD.
Have you ever wondered what happens to the water after it goes down the drain? Follow the flow with the MWRD on a virtual tour of our wastewater treatment process on Thursday, August 7 at 2 p.m.!
Join us for an inside look at how we protect our waterways, reduce pollution, and even turn waste into renewable resources—all from the comfort of your home!
Whether you're a student, an environmental enthusiast, or just looking for a unique adventure, this tour is packed with fascinating science and sustainable solutions. Sign up today and get a fresh perspective on water reclamation!
MWRD Board of Commissioners August meeting
Thursday, August, 14 10:30 a.m.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners will hold its Regular Board Meeting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 14.
Public comments may be made at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building, 100 E. Erie Street, Chicago, during the Public Comment period.
An "In Progress" link under the Video Column will be active when there is a meeting in session. Closed captioning is available.
Partners to cut ribbon on Salt Creek restoration project August 19
The public is invited to participate in a ribbon-cutting event for the Salt Creek Restoration Project at Fullersburg Woods in the DuPage County Forest Preserves on Tuesday, Aug. 19, at 11 a.m. near the Graue Mill and Museum, 3800 York Road, Oak Brook. This project is a partnership between the MWRD, DuPage County Forest Preserves, and the DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup.
The restoration project honors the history of the Graue Mill and Fullersburg Woods, while improving water quality and enhancing recreational opportunities in Salt Creek.
In addition to removing the Graue Mill dam, the project revitalizes over a mile of upstream Salt Creek by stabilizing the streambank, diversifying habitat for aquatic life and planting native vegetation along the stream.
Monitoring and Research Monthly Seminar set for Friday, August 22 at 10:30 a.m.
“Towards Sustainable Water Resource Recovery Facilities: Exploring the Potential of Internally Stored Carbon for Efficient Biological Nutrient Removal.”
On Friday, August 22 at 10:30 a.m., Kayla Bauhs, P.E., staff engineer, Brown and Caldwell, will discuss “Towards Sustainable Water Resource Recovery Facilities: Exploring the Potential of Internally Stored Carbon for Efficient Biological Nutrient Removal.”
In person: Stickney Water Reclamation Plant, Lue-Hing R&D Complex, 6001 West Pershing Rd., Cicero, IL. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance by emailing Dr. Heng Zhang at zhangH@mwrd.org or call (708) 588-4264 or (708) 588-4059.
Virtual: Go to Seminars and Presentations on August 22 for the link to access the seminar.
For additional information, please contact Dr. Heng Zhang, Assistant Director of Monitoring and Research, at (708) 588-4264 or (708) 588-4059.
The seminar is eligible for Professional Development Credits/CEUs.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony to be held in Glenwood on August 25
A ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the completion of the Glenwood Levee at George Arquilla Park will be held on Monday, August 25 at 11 a.m., 225 Park Drive, Glenwood, Ill.
This project involved constructing a new levee to protect 29 structures from flooding along Thorn Creek. On September 7, 2023, the Board of Commissioners approved a revised agreement with the Village of Glenwood, providing $3.483 million in funding for the $5.156 million total construction cost. The District also contributed to acquisition and design efforts. The levee is 1,250 feet long with a 12-foot crest and an average height of 7.5 feet. The project also included installing 1,000 feet of storm sewer and other utility upgrades.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony to be held in Markham on August 28
The MWRD will join the City of Markham on Thursday, August 28 at 11 a.m. to celebrate the completion of three green alleys that were converted from impervious pavement using permeable pavers.
The alleys are located north of West 159th Street, running east to west, and bounded by Sawyer Avenue to the east and Homan Avenue to the west. Approximately 11,700 square feet was converted to permeable, creating 90,501 gallons of Design Retention Capacity. The MWRD contributed up to $469,000 toward the project. The total construction cost was estimated at $618,597.
MWRD's 2025 Small Business Summit scheduled for September 9
A must-attend event for small businesses eager to connect with the MWRD, prime contractors and prime consultants across the Chicago area is set for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on on September 9, 2025, at Malcolm X College, 1900 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL.
This is a unique opportunity to gain insight into the MWRD, the types of contracts and projects we service, and strategies for expanding your business once you become certified with us. Register your firm as a vendor to receive invitations for bidding opportunities and stay informed about potential business ventures with the MWRD.
The event will showcase a panel of industry experts, leaders, and organizational decision-makers who bring extensive industry knowledge to address your business needs. You will have the exclusive chance to engage with our department heads to explore the diverse projects and services offered across our departments. Direct access to Primes, Subcontractors, Assist Agencies, and Sister Agencies will create an optimal environment to discover new business opportunities, allowing you to identify where you might excel.
Whether you're an established business looking to broaden your horizon or a budding entrepreneur seeking expert guidance, this is the perfect platform to build new relationships.
Register now to secure your spot and be part of an event that promises to open doors to exciting new opportunities!
MWRD in the News
Platinum Peak Awards recognize MWRD’s commitment in treating wastewater, protecting the environment
The MWRD continues to meet stringent permits to ensure what leaves the facility is clean water that meets the highest national standards. The National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) recognized the MWRD with six Platinum 5 Peak Performance Award for five years of 100 percent compliance in meeting National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. The MWRD received the award at a ceremony on July 23 at NACWA’s Utility Leadership Conference and 55th Annual Meeting.
ComEd presents check for energy savings at MWRD properties
ComEd President and CEO Gil Quinones presented a ceremonial check to the MWRD on July 17.
In an effort to cut energy use, reduce operational costs, and return savings to taxpayers, the MWRD participated in ComEd’s Strategic Energy Management (SEM) program, and in six years, the MWRD earned more than $400,000 in energy efficiency incentives.
The MWRD’s Pump and Blower Building at the O’Brien WRP in Skokie, IL houses critical infrastructure to convey water up from the sewer while also generating the needed oxygen to help transform wastewater into clean water. Wastewater treatment plants consume significant energy, but the MWRD is finding new savings.
Through the SEM program, MWRD staff worked with Cascade Energy to perform deep reviews of nearly 80 treatment operations. These energy treasure hunts uncovered fixes ranging from simple leak repairs to adjustments in blower usage and aeration levels—key areas that can consume up to 40 percent of a plant’s energy budget. The improvements did not require major capital investment but instead focused on smarter use of existing equipment.
Village of Willow Springs, MWRD unveil green infrastructure upgrades supporting 1 million gallons of stormwater storage
The MWRD joined the Village of Willow Springs in celebrating the completion of its Town Center Green Infrastructure Improvements with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 24.
MWRD President Kari K. Steele, Commissioner Eira Corral Sepúlveda and Commissioner Beth McElroy Kirkwood joined Village President Melissa Neddermeyer, trustees, and other elected officials to mark the occasion.
The project replaced paved streets with permeable pavers, boosting flood protection and adding over a million gallons of stormwater storage. Supported in part by a partnership agreement with the District, the upgrades represent a major step toward a more resilient and sustainable community.
Acqua, innovazione e collaborazione: Italian delegation visits MWRD’s Stickney WRP for transatlantic dialogue on water, innovation, and collaboration
On July 1, we welcomed members of the Italian Parliament, diplomatic leaders, and delegates from the Italian Consulate General in Chicago to the Stickney WRP. Led by Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia and executive leadership, we showcased how the District protects our water from the Great Lakes to the Gulf and reimagines wastewater as a resource. We explored how international collaboration fuels sustainable innovation. From reclaiming energy and nutrients to advancing flood mitigation and climate resilience, our mission is global in scope and local in impact.
Beaubien Woods Ambassadors visit Calumet Water Reclamation Plant
Curious minds and future leaders in environmental stewardship had a behind-the-scenes look at the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant as the MWRD hosted a dozen visitors, including nine enthusiastic students, from the Beaubien Woods Outdoor Youth Ambassadors program on July 2.
Led by MWRD Vice President Patricia Theresa Flynn, Commissioner Eira Corral Sepúlveda and plant manager Neil Dorigan, the event highlighted the importance of clean water, environmental stewardship, and the wide range of career opportunities in the water sector.
After receiving a general overview about the treatment process, the group embarked on a guided tour of the plant. Students observed how the MWRD transforms wastewater into clean water and protects area waterways. During lunch, students heard from Lolita Thompson, principal civil engineer, and Ed Coleman, human resources manager, who shared their personal journeys and insights on pursuing careers in the water industry. Vice President Flynn and Commissioner Corral Sepúlveda also addressed the group, encouraging the students to stay curious, keep learning, and consider futures in science, technology, and public service.
Cook County Sheriff's summer campers explore environmental careers at Stickney Water Reclamation plant
Nearly 50 enthusiastic campers and 15 dedicated chaperones from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office’s Leadership Academy tour visited the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant on July 15 for an inspiring and educational day focused on environmental science and career exploration.
The visit was designed to spark curiosity and broaden horizons for young participants, many of whom are exploring future career options. Students from diverse backgrounds had meaningful access to hands-on learning experiences and exposure to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Campers were guided through interactive sessions that showcased the vital work being done at the plant, one of the largest and most advanced wastewater treatment facilities in the world. Through engaging presentations and demonstrations, students learned how clean water is produced, how ecosystems are protected, and how science plays a critical role in safeguarding public health and the environment. Students interacted with professionals across a wide range of disciplines, including microbiologists, soil scientists, treatment plant operators, and aquatic biologists.
MWRD staff lead Bike to Work competition
The MWRD recognized the efforts of 35 employees who participated in the Active Transportation Alliance’s 2025 Bike Commuter Challenge, earning top honors and demonstrating the agency’s commitment to sustainability, health, and teamwork.
Between May 27 and June 23, 2025, Team MWRD biked a total of 2,809.89 miles, securing second place among 16 teams in the Public Agency category and fifth overall out of more than 100 participating teams across the Chicago region. Their performance placed them just behind powerhouse teams from Northwestern University, SRAM, Rush University Medical Center, and Cook County Health.
Team members commuted by bicycle to and from work or used bikes to connect with public transit, recording their trips and miles throughout the competition. Thomas Hacker, MWRD’s Emergency Planning Program Coordinator, served as team captain, with Principal Civil Engineer Frederick Wu as co-captain
Resources
Sign up for Overflow Action Alert text messages
Sign up to receive Overflow Action Alert text messages. When we announce an Overflow Action Alert, you will be reminded to reduce your use of water before, during and after a storm to help prevent excess water from entering local sewers.
Join Our Team!
Are you seeking a new job?
If so, visit our online employment center to register, apply and learn more about jobs and the selection process at the MWRD. We also participate in job fairs throughout the county so stop by our table if you are in attendance! Staff in a variety of job classifications were interviewed to discuss their background and work that they do. The videos can be found on the MWRD YouTube page.
Keep medications out of our water environment
Medications, whether they are prescribed or not, can end up in waterways. This includes pet medications too!
These drugs can pass through our water reclamation plants (WRPs) and enter rivers and streams. This can harm fish, plant life and our waterways. Controlling what goes down the drain is an easy and effective way to protect the environment.
How you can help
You can help keep medications from entering our waterways by disposing of unwanted medicine properly.
- Never flush unused medications or toss expired medicines in the garbage.
- Take unused and expired medications to Cook County Prescription Drug Take Back Network locations.
- For over-the-counter products, monitor your supply. Store them in one spot in your home to avoid accidentally buying extras.
The MWRD is proud to play a role in collecting unwanted medicine and keeping our drains medicines free. Our boxes are located near the entrances at the Stickney, Calumet and O'Brien WRPs and in the lobby of the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building in Chicago. Do not leave medication outside the box. If a box is locked, please return during hours of operation or visit another location.
MWRD drug collection box locations
What is the key to pollution prevention when it comes to are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manmade fluorinated compounds that are designed to be stable and have been in commercial use since the 1940s. The stability of the chemicals makes them difficult to degrade which is why they are often called “forever chemicals.” PFAS are in commercial, consumer, and industrial products and and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that they are widely present in the environment; nonstick cookware, cosmetics, sunscreens, washing clothes, and fire-fighting foams can introduce PFAS into the environment.
Like other water utilities across the U.S., the MWRD is addressing how best to manage PFAS in the water environment. The MWRD’s seven water reclamation plants (WRPs) do not produce nor use PFAS but are passive receivers of these chemicals discharged to local sewers. As a result, wastewater can contain trace amounts of these chemicals from industrial, commercial and household sources. The MWRD’s WRPs were not designed to remove these chemicals during the treatment process.
The key to pollution prevention is addressing the source of PFAS.
The MWRD is closely following and proceeding based on the developing science on the potential impacts of PFAS. The MWRD is also working to identify and reduce industrial discharges of PFAS, learning how the discharge from these sources can be reduced and encouraging federal and state regulators to focus on stopping these chemicals at the source. The MWRD’s pretreatment program regulates industrial discharges to protect the treatment process and valuable resources the MWRD recovers.
Permanent Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collections
Dispose of your household chemicals responsibly and recycle your old computers.
- Tuesdays 7 am - Noon
- Thursdays 2 pm - 7 pm
- The first Saturday of every month 8 am - 3 pm
The public may drop them off at the City of Chicago's permanent Household Chemicals & Computer Recycling Facility at 1150 N. North Branch Street (two blocks east of the Kennedy Expressway at Division Street).
Household chemicals and computers often contain hazardous substances, such as lead, mercury, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) which can contaminate our air, soil and water. Through proper disposal methods or recycling, these hazardous substances are reprocessed and reused in an environmentally-responsible manner.
The Household Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility accepts a range of items, including household cleaners, oil-based paints, solvents, cell phones, compact fluorescent light bulbs, computers, and related equipment, to name a few. It does not accept business/commercial sector wastes, explosives, fireworks or latex paint.
During business hours, an attendant will help unload your vehicle and accept your materials. Materials should not be left outside the facility unattended.
Coming soon! South Suburban College, 15800 State St., South Holland, will be the site of a new permanent HHW facility opening this fall. Residents will be able to dispose of household chemicals, rechargeable batteries, oil-based paints, solvents, medications, fluorescent light bulbs, antifreeze, motor oil, gasoline, auto fluids, herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, aerosol cans and lawn, pool and hobby chemicals. This facility will be located next to the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) Center where residents can dispose of electronics, polystyrene foam, clothing and textiles, personal healthcare equipment and general household recycling materials. CHaRM has taken in nearly 2.5 million pounds of materials. Read more.
Doing Business with the MWRD
Watch a video on how to submit a responsive bid or proposal.
The MWRD Department of Procurement and Materials Management procures materials and services required for operations in compliance with the MWRD Purchasing Act. The mission of the Diversity Section is to ensure that minority owned (MBE), women owned (WBE), small (SBE), and veteran owned (VBE) business enterprises are given equal opportunities to participate in the MWRD’s construction program and professional service contracts in excess of $100,000.
Our procurement process is designed to ensure the most efficient use of taxpayer dollars, so we encourage you to register to become a vendor. Sign up for a weekly email listing new contract announcements by emailing forea@mwrd.org.
Please report waterway blockages, suspicious dumping to waterways or sewers, or odors.
Call 800-332-DUMP (3867) or in Spanish 855-323-4801
Tips to prepare your home for excess rainwater
Read our "Green Neighbor Guide"
Now is a good time to work on projects that can make your home more resilient to stormwater.
Some actions can be as simple as not over-fertilizing your lawn and garden, installing a rain barrel or planting a native tree. No matter what action you choose, the MWRD "Green Neighbor Guide" can help. It gives instructions on stormwater management projects that you can install on your property. For example, detailed instructions are offered for disconnecting downspouts; installing rain barrels or cisterns to capture stormwater for reuse; installing dry wells and rain gardens to allow stormwater to filter into the ground; and replacing asphalt and concrete surfaces with permeable paving to reduce stormwater runoff. Watch our YouTube video to see how a rain barrel is installed.
Discounted rain barrels available while supplies last
Discounted rain barrels are available to residents of Cook County through the MWRD website. Rain barrels capture rainwater from your roof for later use. They can help prevent basement backups, street flooding and sewer overflows by keeping rainwater out of the sewer system.
You can use rain barrel water to water your lawn or garden and clean your work boots, tools and bikes.
Rain barrels can hold up to 55 gallons. The overflow opening lets you connect a hose to direct overflow away from your foundation or to connect several rain barrels. Our rain barrels:
- Are made from durable high-density polyethylene.
- Come in four colors (black, blue, terra cotta and gray) and may have different shapes depending on the vendor.
- Include instructions, a leaf and mosquito filter screen, a flexible downspout connector, a spigot/tap, and an overflow hose.
- Free delivery.
Free oak saplings available
Complimentary red, pin, bur, black or swamp white oak saplings are available at our water reclamation plants on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon through October.
If more than 50 potted saplings are desired, delivery is available, or park districts, residents and municipalities can schedule pick ups.
The saplings come in one gallon pots or can be requested as bare roots in bags of 100. These must be planted within days for premium viability.
Learn more about our Restore the Canopy sapling program
Tour an MWRD facility
Each year, our seven water reclamation plants process approximately 450 billion gallons of wastewater. With a daily treatment capacity exceeding 2 billion gallons, the MWRD plays a critical role in protecting our region’s water quality. Learn more about the work of the MWRD on our YouTube channel, watch a virtual tour, or schedule an in-person group tour.
Schedule a speaker
The MWRD offers in-person and virtual presentations for all ages on subjects such as:
- Overview of the MWRD
- Careers in water
- History of water in the Chicago region, including reversing the Chicago River
- How sewers work
- Explanation of the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan or Deep Tunnel
- How wastewater treatment works
- Recovering resources from wastewater
- Stormwater management flood control
- What is Green Infrastructure
- What you can do to protect water quality and reduce flooding
Please request a speaker for your group or class at least three weeks in advance.
Request a community event representative
The MWRD actively engages with communities across Cook County throughout the year, participating in events such as back-to-school fairs, environmental expos, farmers markets, municipal gatherings, career days, and STEM-related activities. Our representatives provide engaging materials and interactive activities designed for all ages, offering insights into our work, areas of responsibility, and practical tips on how to enhance local water quality.
Extras
Historical Photo of the Month
Excavation for the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal on June 7, 1894, in an area southwest of Willow Springs.
August 2025 Calendar
The South Branch of the Chicago River offers a stunning view of Chicago north from Ping Tom Memorial Park in Chinatown.
