Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago
Recovering Resources, Transforming Water
Strategic Plan
Protecting Our Water Environment
Stormwater Partnerships
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Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) Reservoir Levels
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The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago's Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) is designed to reduce flooding, improve water quality in Chicago area waterways and protect Lake Michigan from pollution caused by sewer overflows.
Street flooding and basement backups can still occur even when there is plenty of room in TARP. If small neighborhood sewers don’t have the capacity to carry water to the MWRD’s intercepting sewers or TARP tunnels, they may back up.
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.
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Recent News Releases
MWRD FLOW - May 2026
MWRD earns Gold-Level recognition from the American Water Works Association’s Water Ambassador Program
"Help Clean Up The Cal-Sag Channel For Chicago River Day, Volunteers Needed," The Patch, Alsip-Crestwood
MWRD to unveil accessibility improvements along the Cal-Sag Channel in Blue Island
Projects
Harvey Central Park Stormwater Detention Basin | MWRD
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 | MWRD
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 | MWRD
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 | MWRD
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.
Calendar of Events
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