Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Recovering Resources, Transforming Water

Strategic Plan

Protecting Our Water Environment

Established in 1889, the MWRD is an award-winning, special purpose government agency responsible for treating wastewater and managing stormwater in Cook County, Illinois. We strive to be a responsive neighbor that engages with the public on several critical water-related issues that improve the quality of life for all.

Stormwater Partnerships

Local governments and public agencies can apply now for funding to build or design stormwater projects.

Overflow Action

You can help reduce basement backups and flooding by conserving water before, during and after rainstorms.

A crane lifting a large chemical storage tank into position at a water treatment facility with the Chicago skyline visible in the distant background

Procurement and Materials Management

The Procurement and Materials Management Department issues many contracts during the year to purchase a wide range of materials, services and equipment for the MWRD.

A rain barrel on a wooden stand next to a house with a hose running to a tree

Rain Barrels

We have rain barrels for sale for a low price, delivery included. Rain barrels capture rainwater from your roof and save it for later use.

An aerial view of the McCook Reservoir with a boat passing by on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal

Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) reservoir levels

Tunnel and Reservoir Plan, also known as TARP or “The Deep Tunnel,” is a system of deep, large diameter tunnels and vast reservoirs. TARP is designed to reduce flooding, improve water quality in Chicago area waterways and protect Lake Michigan from pollution caused by sewer overflows.

See water levels at the three TARP reservoirs

A closeup view of cleaned water at a wastewater treatment plant

Strategic Plan Survey

It’s time to develop our 2026-2030 Strategic Plan!

We are seeking the public’s input on shaping our new five-year Strategic Plan. Please provide your feedback by Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

Thank you for your valuable input!

Strategic Plan Survey

Tow engineers discussing project plants with detailed documents on the wall

Join our team!

We are accepting applications now for a wide range of job categories.

Find out more

You can help prevent flooding and protect water quality!

Native Landscaping

Native landscaping can help reduce flooding, protect water quality and provide habitat for wildlife.

Rain Barrels

We have rain barrels for sale for a low price, delivery included. Rain barrels capture rainwater from your roof and save it for later use.

Green Infrastructure

Capturing stormwater where it falls through natural systems and permeable surfaces.

Medication Disposal

When not disposed of properly, pharmaceuticals can end up in waterways. You can help keep pharmaceuticals from entering our waterways by disposing of unwanted medicine properly at the locations listed on this page.

Videos

An MWRD operations manager standing in front of an aeration tank

Join Our Team

How Chicago Cleans 1.4 Billion Gallons Of Wastewater Every Day

Where Does IT Go?

Aerial view of a boat pushing four barges full of material on a canal at sunset

Virtual Tour

Recent News Releases

MWRD, city of Markham, Cook County celebrate completion of three new green alleys

August 29, 2025

The project transformed traditional impervious alleys into eco-friendly, permeable surfaces designed to better manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and enhance neighborhood resilience.

"1.5 Mile Cal-Sag Extension Opens In Palos Hills," Palos Hills Patch

August 28, 2025

Community members can use the trail to reach Moraine Valley Community College, Amos Alonzo Stagg High School, the Palos Heights Metra Station, and many parks, businesses, and neighborhoods across the region.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrates completion of Glenwood Levee at Arquilla Park; project protects homes along Thorn Creek

August 28, 2025

This vital stormwater management project was made possible through a partnership between the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) and the Village of Glenwood.

Salt Creek restored: MWRD, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup and schools of migrating fish highlight improvements at Fullersburg Woods

August 28, 2025

The project honors the history of the Graue Mill and Fullersburg Woods, while also improving water quality and enhancing recreational opportunities in Salt Creek.

View all news

Projects

Harvey Central Park Stormwater Detention Basin

The MWRD's Harvey Central Park Stormwater Detention Basin project will provide flood relief for the city of Harvey. This project will reduce flooding to approximately 209 homes during a 100-year storm event.

Addison Creek Reservoir and Channel Improvements

The 600-acre-foot Addison Creek Reservoir will hold 195 million gallons of storage capacity and connect with the Addison Creek Channel to protect the communities from overbank flooding.

Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project

The MWRD’s Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project will help address overbank flooding through a new stormwater park and pond, along with improvements to Midlothian Creek and an overflow channel that connects to the Cal-Sag Channel.

Mount Prospect Stormwater Projects

The MWRD worked with the village of Mount Prospect to transform two beautiful park spaces that can now accommodate more stormwater and protect the community from flooding, while also giving the residents a place to gather and play.

View more projects