MWRD FLOW - June 2025
For the Love of Water (FLOW) is the MWRD monthly news summary.
In this edition:
Upcoming Events
Pride Month flag raising and celebration to be held June 2
Join the MWRD as we raise the Pride flag and celebrate peace, equality, and community on Monday, June 2 beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building, 100 E. Erie, Chicago. The Chicago Gay Men's Chorus will give a special performance.
MWRD Board of Commissioners June meetings
Thursday, June 5 and 26, 10:30 a.m.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners will hold its Regular Board Meeting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 5 and Thursday, June 26.
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.
City of Chicago hosts Green Stormwater Infrastructure public meetings
Make your voice heard! Join the City of Chicago’s Department of Environment at one of two remaining public meetings to provide input and learn about stormwater management and urban greening efforts in your neighborhood.
• Monday, June 2, 6 p.m., Rainbow Beach Fieldhouse, 3111 E. 77th St., Chicago
• Wednesday, June 4, 6 p.m., Nathanael Greene Elementary School, 3525 S. Honore St., Chicago
On the agenda is a presentation on Chicago’s Stormwater Infrastructure Strategy, discussions with subject-matter experts, hands-on activities and resource tables with information on water management, sustainability and community programs.
All participants have a chance to win a $100 grocery gift card and rain barrel.
Monthly Virtual Tour set for Monday, June 9 at 2 p.m.
Embark on a captivating 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 Monday, June 9 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!
Juneteenth Flag Raising event to be held Friday, June 13
The MWRD will raise the Juneteenth flag on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building and all District water reclamation plants.
Juneteenth is a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Deriving its name from combining "June" and "nineteenth," it is celebrated on the anniversary of the order issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas.
Monitoring and Research Monthly Seminar set for Friday, June 27 at 10:30 a.m.
“Highlighting the Benefits of Machine Learning for BRN at HRSD.”
On Friday, June 27, at 10:30 a.m., Jeff Sparks, Ph.D., Director of Digital Water, Hampton Road Sanitation District, Virginia Beach, Virginia, will discuss “Highlighting the Benefits of Machine Learning for BRN at HRSD.”
Biological treatment processes that aim to optimize energy and chemical efficiency while maintaining effective nutrient removal are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Among these, mainstream partial denitrification anammox (PdNA) presents unique challenges, particularly in the need for precise upstream aeration control. This study focuses on advancing Ammonia-Based Aeration Control (ABAC) through the integration of cutting-edge technologies, including a Digital Twin and machine learning. The developments described here serve as foundational steps toward implementing effective Ammonia-versus-NOx (AvN) control, which will be critical for the successful deployment of mainstream PdNA.
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 January 31 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.
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.
Partners to cut ribbon on Salt Creek restoration project
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.
MWRD's 2025 Small Business Summit scheduled for September 9
MWRD in the News
Geoffrey Baer honored for educating the public about water infrastructure
The Board of Commissioners honored Geoffrey Baer for his dedication to sharing the stories of our region’s water history and for spotlighting the value of clean water and infrastructure. A nine-time Emmy Award winner, Baer has long been celebrated for his engaging documentaries that delve into the architectural and cultural tapestry of Chicago.
His work has illuminated the intricate relationship between the city's development and its waterways, bringing to light the significance of institutions like the MWRD. Watch Geoffrey's visit to the Deep Tunnel in 2009.
Season opening of the Melas Centennial Fountain kicks off summer
MWRD Commissioners and staff along with Chicago's 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly celebrated the season opening of the Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain on May 15.
Located on the north bank of the Chicago River at McClurg Court, the fountain periodically sends an impressive 80-foot water arc across the river during summer months.
The fountain is named after former MWRD President Nicholas J. Melas and was dedicated in 1989. It represents MWRD's commitment to improve the quality of the Chicago River to protect the public health, enhance waterway ecology, stimulate economic development and serves as a welcome entrance to Chicago.
Calumet Water Reclamation Plant Open House and Cub Scout Impact Day draw nearly 300 visitors
About 300 visitors of all ages stopped by the Calumet WRP in conjunction with Chicago Water Week on May 10.
Guests, including IL State Senator Robert Martwick (10th Dist.) and various Cub Scout troops, toured the facility to learn how wastewater is cleaned and returned safely to the environment.
MWRD staff from multiple disciplines were on hand to answer questions, showcase the plant’s operations, and highlight the importance of water stewardship.
Ribbon-cutting ceremonies held at two Space to Grow schools
The first Space to Grow ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on May 19 at the Ronald H. Brown Community Academy, 12607 S. Union Ave., Chicago.
Brown Academy is in the West Pullman neighborhood and its new yard can hold up to 303,246 gallons of stormwater per rain event.
This project took a schoolyard area that was formerly 100 percent asphalt and converted it into a track and artificial turf field, basketball court, porous playground surfacing, a nature play area, rain garden area, and outdoor classroom. Read more about this event.
The second ceremony was held at Spencer Elementary Technology Academy, 214 N. Lavergne Ave. in the Austin neighborhood, on May 30. Spencer Academy can hold up to 190,872 gallons of stormwater per rain event.
This schoolyard was also comprised of asphalt before it was transformed into a track and artificial turf field, volleyball court, and basketball court with porous playground surfacing, nature play area, rain gardens, outdoor classroom, and permeable paver walkways. Learn more about the Space to Grow program.
Ernest C. Wong inspires at MWRD's Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration
Ernest C. Wong, founder and principal of Site Design Group, delivered an inspiring presentation on May 22 during the MWRD's Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration held at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building in Chicago.
A trailblazer in landscape architecture, Wong has spent more than 35 years shaping Site Design Group into a nationally recognized, multicultural design firm known for its innovative and community-focused approach. Under his leadership, the firm has earned acclaim for transforming urban spaces into vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable environments.
MWRD Commissioners, staff participate in annual Chicago River Day cleanup efforts
MWRD Commissioners and staff joined hundreds of volunteers across Cook County to participate in the annual Chicago River Day cleanup hosted by the Friends of the Chicago River.
This vital community effort works to protect and enhance the health of local riverbanks and waterways while educating the public about the importance of clean water, sustainable practices, and the shared responsibility of caring for our environment.
The MWRD’s debris boat made a significant contribution by collecting 20 cubic yards of yard waste and 20 cubic yards of trash and debris from the river, helping to restore the natural beauty and ecological health of our shared water resources. The commissioners and their aides fanned out across the region to take part in various educational and cleanup efforts which included picking up trash, removing invasive plant species, and beautifying the area.
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 down the drain 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. Never flush them down the toilet.
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 Collection
Dispose of your household chemicals responsibly and recycle your old computers.
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. Scheduled business hours are:
- Tuesdays 7 am - Noon
- Thursdays 2 pm - 7 pm
- The first Saturday of every month 8 am - 3 pm
Breaking news! South Suburban College, 15800 State St., South Holland, will be the site of a new permanent Cook County HHW facility opening this fall. This new 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. At the new HHW facility, Cook County 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. Since opening, the CHaRM Center has served over 3,300 residents, taking in nearly 2.5 million pounds of materials that otherwise would have likely been disposed of in landfills. Read more.
Doing Business with the MWRD
New! 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
For a limited time, MWRD rain barrels are available to residents of Cook County at a discounted price of $21.50 and $10.75 for seniors 65 and older. Limit two per residence.
Rain barrels capture rainwater from your roof and save it for later use. Rain barrels 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 a matter of 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
Construction of a bridge at Loomis St. over the South Branch of the Chicago River on March 8, 1904. The Sanitary District (now MWRD) built the bridge between 1902 and 1904.
June 2025 Calendar
Sand and water line at Montrose Beach in Chicago.
