MWRD FLOW - July 2026
For the Love of Water (FLOW) is the MWRD's monthly news summary.
In this edition:
Upcoming Events
Micro-forest planting event on July 2 will celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary
To commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial, the MWRD will launch a special initiative to plant 250 oak saplings on MWRD properties. A micro-forest planting kick-off event to mark this historic milestone will take place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in front of the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant, 400 E. 130th St., Chicago.
Since its launch in 2016, the MWRD has distributed more than 100,000 free native tree saplings through its Restore the Canopy program to residents, schools, and community partners across the service area. The planting of 250 oak saplings builds on that success while advancing the MWRD’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, stormwater management, and climate resilience.
MWRD/DWM to host wing storage media availability on July 7
On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., the MWRD and City of Chicago Department of Water Management (DWM) will host a media availability to showcase two newly delivered wing storage units on the West Side to build more stormwater capacity in communities affected by 2023 flooding.
This event will be held on Le Moyne Street between Luna and Lorel Avenues to provide a closer glimpse at the infrastructure that is being installed in the 37th Ward. A second project in the 28th Ward, also funded by the MWRD and DWM, was completed on Maypole Avenue between Cicero and Lavergne avenues. Learn more here.
Monthly Virtual Tour set for Tuesday, July 14 at 2 p.m.
Follow the flush for a live virtual tour of the MWRD’s water reclamation process on Tuesday, July 14 at 2 p.m. Learn how we protect our waterways, reduce pollution and turn waste into renewable resources. Join us to receive a fresh perspective on water.
MWRD Board of Commissioners July meeting
Thursday, July 16, 10:30 a.m.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners will hold its Regular Board Meeting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 16.
Public comments may be made at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building, 100 E. Erie Street, Chicago, during the Public Comment period. Visit mwrd.org to watch the meeting online. Click on "Board of Commissioners" in the upper right corner, then click on Board calendar. An "In Progress" link under the Video Column will be active when there is a meeting in session. Closed captioning is available.
Monitoring and Research Monthly Seminar set for July 31 at 10:30 a.m.
“Internal Substrate Selection of Granules in a Flow-through Activated Sludge System via Biological Selectors.”
On Friday, July 31 at 10:30 a.m., Kam Law, Ph.D., P.E., Water Innovations Practice Leader, Donohue & Associates, Inc., Chicago, will discuss “Internal Substrate Selection of Granules in a Flow-through Activated Sludge System via Biological Selectors.”
In person: Stickney Water Reclamation Plant, Lue-Hing R&D Complex, 6001 West Pershing Rd., Cicero, IL. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance by emailing MnRSeminars@mwrd.org or calling 708-588-4264 or 708-588-4059.
Virtual: Go to Seminars and Presentations on July 31 for the link to access the seminar.
For additional information, please email MnRSeminars@mwrd.org.
The seminar is eligible for Professional Development Credits/CEUs.
MWRD Small Business Success Stories webinar is July 31
The MWRD Diversity Section’s Small Business Success Story webinar series highlights small and diverse businesses that have partnered successfully with the MWRD. Each session shares insights, lessons and inspiration to help other small and diverse businesses connect, grow and succeed in public contracting. The next webinar is set for July 31 at 2 p.m. and will feature Susan Nelson, President and Founder, Autumn Construction Services.
Susan is an accomplished entrepreneur and industry leader, with over 30 years of experience in mechanical construction and construction project management. She is the founder of Autumn Construction Services, a mechanical contractor and professional services company specializing in commercial building projects. She holds an MBA from DePaul University and a BS in Construction Engineering and Management from Purdue University. With her extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, Susan has become a trusted name in the mechanical construction industry, known for her team’s quality of workmanship and steadfast business reputation.
MWRD in the News
Municipalities, local governments may apply for MWRD funding assistance and help build resilience
Applications are open for municipalities and local government entities to partner with the MWRD on a variety of stormwater management projects to mitigate community flooding throughout Cook County.
Following a near-record-breaking month of rainfall for April in the Chicago area, the MWRD invites communities and government entities across Cook County to pitch their project plans through four programs funded by the MWRD. More information can be found here.
Each year, the MWRD accepts applications for a range of stormwater management projects that include local infrastructure upgrades, green infrastructure installations, technical assistance to investigate potential solutions to flooding, and a voluntary flood-prone property acquisition program that aids communities in purchasing properties that repeatedly flood.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners on April 16 and May 21 recommended new projects to be funded through the Green Infrastructure Partnership Program, Stormwater Partnership Program and Technical Assistance Program. The projects were prioritized based on stormwater storage capacity, flooding prevalence and economic factors of the community. Eight green infrastructure projects were selected, representing nearly $5.8 million in construction costs that will improve community spaces and address stormwater management in Dolton, Forest Park, Maywood, Norridge, Northlake, River Forest Riverdale and Skokie.
American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists honors MWRD with grand prize in environmental communications
The MWRD Office of Public Affairs and the Engineering Department’s Stormwater Section received the Grand Prize in Environmental Communications from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists for their work on the Green Infrastructure Community Guide: Stormwater Strategies for Resilient Communities. The award was announced recently at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center in Washington, D.C.
The MWRD published the comprehensive guide earlier this year to engage and educate readers about the powers of green infrastructure to help manage stormwater. The guide informs communities on how to install these green projects on a municipal scale and supports the MWRD’s mission to mitigate flooding, protect area water quality and public health.
MWRD celebrates Juneteenth
On June 15 the MWRD raised the Juneteenth flag at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building, 100 E. Erie St., Chicago, and at all seven water reclamation plants to honor and recognize Freedom Day.
The ceremony reaffirms our commitment to equity, inclusion, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.
"Water Connects Us, Pride Unites Us": MWRD celebrates Pride Month
Following a flag raising and ceremony at the McGowan Main Office Building and seven water reclamation plants in observance of Pride Month, a special program was held that highlighted the role of resilience and unity.
The MWRD welcomed keynote speaker Federal Emergency Management Specialist (FEMA) Mary DeBacker (ret.), and Chicago Ald. Maria Hadden (49th Ward) and Cook County Commissioner Maggie Trevor (9th District) for remarks and a panel discussion with MWRD Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis on the importance of inclusion and community partnership in managing the region’s water resources.
The annual Pride Month flag raising and gathering was themed “Water Connects Us, Pride Unites Us.” Ald. Hadden talked about the challenges of managing fluctuating lake levels and lakefront erosion along with aging infrastructure for vulnerable communities, while Commissioner Trevor discussed flooding along the Des Plaines River and Salt Creek and the partnerships required to protect the quality of the waterways.
DeBacker likened the work in protecting the water environment against the face of climate change to riding a bike in headwind. There will be drought, more intense rain, wind and warmer conditions and the MWRD will be challenged with building and managing the infrastructure to counter these extreme weather events, but through partners and collaboration the work can be achieved.
Stormwater investments help kick off Robbins football field
What started as a plan to address flooding has led to more opportunities in south suburban Robbins. Leaders from the MWRD joined Robbins Mayor Darren E. Bryant, Robbins trustees, member of the Robbins Eagles football club and residents on June13 to celebrate the new Rocky Clark Legacy Field in Robbins, a project made possible by the transformative stormwater improvements underway at the MWRD’s nearby Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project.
MWRD President Kari K. Steele joined Mayor Bryant in providing remarks, was joined by MWRD Vice President Patricia Theresa Flynn, Commissioner Beth McElroy Kirkwood and Commissioner Eira Corral Sepúlveda in unveiling the new community landmark. The field is named after the late Rocky Clark, a local football player paralyzed playing the game he loved in 2000 and passing away in 2012, not before inspiring many through his strength and determination.
Resources
Flood Response Resource Guide
MWRD's new guide that provides practical steps for residents to follow before, during and after a flood is available at mwrd.org and hard copies are available by sending an email to public.affairs@mwrd.org. “What to Do and Where to Get Help: Flood Response Resource Guide” provides practical steps for residents to follow before, during and after a flood. It also lists key agencies, local resources, and contact information to help those impacted recover more quickly. This tool is designed to make it easier for residents to find reliable information when they need it most.
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 looking for a new career?
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.
Stormwater Partnerships available for local government
The MWRD can help local government organizations pay for the construction of stormwater infrastructure on public property in Cook County.
The program funds projects that address flooding through a variety of traditional engineering solutions including localized detention, upsizing critical storm sewers and culverts, pumping stations, establishing drainage ways, as well as green infrastructure. This infrastructure can reduce flooding and prevent damage to homes and businesses.
Throughout the year, the MWRD reviews applications and prioritizes projects for partnerships. The selected partner is responsible for their project's design, contract advertisement and award, acquiring any necessary property rights, construction, and long-term maintenance. There are four partnership programs offered on a regular basis.
Stormwater Central: MWRD releases an online portal to document and map stormwater management storage progress
A new hub for mapping data and insight into the work of the MWRD Stormwater Management Program is live and accessible to the public.
Available at at this link, the new site provides a window into the MWRD’s stormwater management work in building resilience across Cook County. The interactive portal will serve as an integrated hub for mapping data, project information, and insights into how the MWRD is working to reduce flooding and manage stormwater across Cook County.
The hub includes the Stormwater Project and Data Explorer, which maps data incorporating information on past and ongoing MWRD stormwater management projects. Visitors to the page can learn more about projects occurring in their communities or across Cook County. They can assess stormwater volume capture, the goals that the MWRD has set for capturing more volume and track progress as more MWRD projects are implemented across watersheds.
Since 2004, the MWRD has served as the regional authority for stormwater management in Cook County. As the impacts of climate change intensify, the MWRD has overseen a countywide effort to manage stormwater runoff, reduce flooding, improve the health of area waterways, and protect the source of drinking water in Lake Michigan. Over that time, the MWRD has implemented new policies, strategies and partnerships to manage increasingly intense and unpredictable storms. In just over a decade, since receiving local authority in 2014, the MWRD has completed over 230 projects that protect more than 17,000 homes, businesses and other buildings from flooding.
Local governments and public agencies in Cook County can apply to the MWRD for help with funding stormwater projects. The portal documents this growing map of projects after years of meticulous data management. Additional data is available to users upon request.
Keep medications out of our water!
Medications 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
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) may be dropped 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. 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 water
Read our "Green Neighbor Guide"
It's never too soon 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.
Oak sapling program opens for 10th season
Our complimentary Restore the Canopy oak sapling program is back for the 10th year! Bur, pin, red and 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 a pick up time.
The saplings come in one gallon pots or can be requested as bare roots in bags of 100. The bare root saplings should be planted within a few days for premium viability.
Since our program began in 2016, we have distributed more than 100,000 free native trees!
Rain barrels for sale
Discounted rain barrel pricing is in effect. Cook County residents may purchase up to two rain barrels for $22.30 each which includes tax and delivery. Barrels are $11.15 each for residents age 65 and older. Allow 30 days for delivery.
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.
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.
MWRD resource guide empowers communities to adopt green infrastructure practices
The MWRD has created a green infrastructure community guide, which aims to help communities manage stormwater through green infrastructure techniques that employ natural solutions to mitigate flooding and improve water quality. This guide equips municipal leaders, planners, public works directors, engineers, staff, and other decision-makers with valuable information, resources, and guidance for incorporating green infrastructure into their communities to better manage stormwater.
What's the difference between the MWRD and Chicago Department of Water Management?
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)
The MWRD is a regional independent government agency responsible for treating wastewater and managing stormwater for Chicago and 128 municipalities. It is governed by a 9-member Board of Commissioners, each of whom is elected countywide in Cook County. The MWRD’s key functions include:
- Treating wastewater from households, businesses and industries
- Operating water reclamation plants and large intercepting sewers
- Providing large-scale stormwater and flood-control services, including the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP or “Deep Tunnel”)
- Partnering with communities within Cook County on stormwater and green infrastructure projects
- Managing waterways and protecting regional water quality
The MWRD does not provide drinking water.
City of Chicago Department of Water Management (DWM)
The DWM is a municipal department of the City of Chicago focused on drinking water delivery and sewer and stormwater services within the City of Chicago. A commissioner appointed by the Mayor of Chicago leads the department.
Extras
Historical Photo of the Month
A view to the west showing part of the recently completed Chicago Harbor lock and Chicago River Controlling Works (CRCW) on September 1, 1939. The MWRD built CRCW and the Chicago Harbor Lock between 1936 and 1938, and operated the lock until 1984 when the US Army Corps of Engineers took over operations. The MWRD continues to operate the CRCW sluice gates.
July 2026 Calendar
A bristle worm swims near stalked ciliates and free-swimming ciliates. Bristle worms take a relatively long time to grow and their presence can indicate that sludge is mature and stable, meaning it is decomposed and less reactive and easier to handle.
