MWRD FLOW - November 2025
For the Love of Water (FLOW) is the MWRD monthly news summary.
In this edition:
Upcoming Events
Space to Grow™ Ribbon-cutting ceremonies to be held
Five ribbon-cutting ceremonies celebrating the expansion of Space to Grow™ have been scheduled throughout November, marking the completion of new green schoolyards at:
Till Math and Science Academy on November 3 at 9:30 a.m.
William H. Ryder Math & Science Specialty Elementary School on November 4 at 2 p.m.
James Farmer Jr. Elementary School on November 7 at 9 a.m.
Mollison Elementary School on November 7 at 11 a.m.
Myra Bradwell School on November 17 at 10 a.m.
Once these ribbons are cut, a total of 41 Space to Grow™ schools will have been completed since 2014, capturing nearly 8.8 million gallons of stormwater per rain event—equivalent to 13.3 Olympic-size pools or more than 175,000 bathtubs.
Space to Grow™ transforms Chicago Public Schools schoolyards into vibrant community spaces that support physical activity, outdoor learning, environmental literacy, and engagement with art, while helping address neighborhood flooding. These green schoolyards provide safe spaces in low-income communities, help meet recess and physical education requirements, reduce stress, improve academic outcomes, and reduce basement backups and combined sewer system loads. By incorporating special surfaces and landscape features that absorb significant rainfall, the program keeps water resources clean, reduces flooding, and benefits students, neighborhoods, and Chicago’s environment.
Government to Government Workshop set for November 5
Municipal leaders are invited to join the MWRD, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, for a Government to Government Workshop at the Hazel Crest Ballroom, 3601 West 183rd Street, Hazel Crest, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This workshop will convene mayors, trustees, and other municipal representatives to strengthen intergovernmental coordination across local, county, and state agencies. Participants will receive guidance on communication protocols, points of contact, and procedures to follow before, during, and after flooding events to enhance community preparedness and response.
Featured speakers include representatives from the Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Illinois Department of Insurance, Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Delta Institute (EPA Region 5 Environmental Finance Agency), Cook County Emergency Management, and more. Registration is free.
MWRD Board of Commissioners September meetings
Thursday, November 6 and 20, 10:30 a.m.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners will hold its Regular Board Meeting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 6 and Thursday, November 20.
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.
13th Annual Sustainability Summit set for November 13
The MWRD’s 13th Annual Sustainability Summit is set for November 13 from 10 a.m. – noon at the Town of Cicero Community Center, 4936 W. 23rd Street, Cicero, Illinois.
There is free parking in the nearby garage on 50th Street between Cermak Road and W. 23rd Street.
In addition to members of the MWRD Board of Commissioners, scheduled speakers will highlight a range of topics focused on climate resilience, infrastructure, and community engagement. Renee Patten, Sustainability Coordinator for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, and John Watson, Sr. Civil Engineer of Water Resources, PE, CFM, will discuss how land conservation, restoration, and nature-based solutions are preparing the region for climate change. Pedro Ortiz, MWRD Senior Civil Engineer, will provide a stormwater management update. Jackie Rigley, Senior Water Policy Advisor for the City of Chicago Department of Environment, will share details on launching Chicago’s green stormwater infrastructure strategy.
Frank Kraut of the Cicero Stormwater Advisory Board will address how Cicero is improving local infrastructure, protecting homes and businesses from flooding, and promoting public awareness about stormwater management. Kevin O’Toole from the Morton Freshman Center Monarch Garden will discuss how an education curriculum designed, engineered, and built by students can immerse young people in environmental science and stormwater management. Also, from the Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI) at Morton Arboretum, Kate Perryman, Stewardship Specialist, and Ryan Sweeney, JD, LLM, Community Specialist, will discuss how trees and green infrastructure support public health, equity, and environmental resilience.
In addition to sharing innovative strategies and resources, projects across Cook County that advance renewable resources, flood control, and water quality improvements will be honored.
Monthly Virtual Tour set for Tuesday, November 18 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 Tuesday, November 18 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!
Monitoring and Research Monthly Seminar set for Friday, November 21 at 10:30 a.m.
“Advancing Wastewater Phytoremediation with Duckweed (Lemna minor) and Native Prairie Plants Floating Wetlands.”
On Friday, November 21 at 10:30 a.m., Levi Straka, PhD, Environmental Research Scientist, and Charles Impastato, Senior Environmental Research Technician, M&R, MWRD, will discuss “Advancing Wastewater Phytoremediation with Duckweed (Lemna minor) and Native Prairie Plants Floating Wetlands.”
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 September 26 for the link to access the seminar.
For additional information, please email MnRSeminars@mwrd.org.
The seminar is eligible for Professional Development Credits/CEUs.
New monthly Zoom series "Small Business Success Stories” launches November 21
The MWRD is launching a new monthly Zoom series, “MWRD Small Business Success Stories,” to spotlight diverse small businesses that have successfully partnered with the District. The first session will take place on Friday, November 21, from 11 a.m. to noon, featuring Mike Saltijeral, President & CEO of Industrial Fence Inc. The series aims to highlight and celebrate successful partnerships while inspiring and informing other small and diverse business owners, assist agencies, and industry partners about certification and contracting opportunities.
MWRD in the News
Stormwater Partnership Program is seeking municipal partners
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.
Regularly, 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.
MWRD's 2025 Latino Heritage Month Business Roundtable
Small business representatives heard from four leaders on “Strategies for Growth in a Changing Climate” during a panel moderated by Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia and Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda for Latino Heritage Month on October 8 at the MWRD's main office building.
The panel featured Chicago Alderman Gilbert Villegas, IHCC President Jaime Di Paulo, Executive Director of Chicago UNIDOS in Construction Juan F. Calahorrano, and HACIA Executive Director Jacqueline Gomez who shared practical insights on navigating today’s business landscape. Richard Martinez, MWRD Diversity Administrator, discussed the MWRD’s contracting process, actionable strategies for business growth, and the crucial role of support agencies, advocacy groups, and peer networks in helping entrepreneurs thrive.
MWRD celebrates Latino Heritage Month with Stewardship event
A small but mighty group came together for the MWRD's fifth annual Latino Stewardship Day at the Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) on Oct. 18. The event was a partnership between the MWRD, FPCC, and Latino Outdoors, bringing people together to celebrate nature and give back through hands-on stewardship activities.
Thank you to MWRD Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia and Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda for helping facilitate this annual tradition.
Attendees gathered seeds and identified plants and participated in a sensory appreciation activity exploring the sights, sounds, textures and scents of the forest.
The experience highlighted the importance of sustainable land stewardship and the power of community-led conservation.
We also welcomed volunteers from Project Dragonfly – Brookfield Zoo chapter.
It was a wonderful Saturday filled with connection, learning and stewardship.
MWRD inducted into the Leading Utilities of the World network
Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC) held in Chicago
WEFTEC once again brought 20,000+ water professionals, researchers, and students from around the world to McCormick Place from September 26 - October 1, and the MWRD had much to celebrate. After President Kari K. Steele presented welcoming remarks at the Grand Opening Session, staff shared expertise on critical water issues through presentations, panels, and learning exchanges throughout the conference in addition to welcoming visitors from around the world for numerous facility tours. Watch the Grand Opening Session.
During WaterPalooza, held at Ida B. Wells Elementary School, staff and partners introduced students to the importance of water through interactive experiments and activities. Staff and volunteers from around the country also volunteered to help build a pollinator garden at Aldridge Elementary School, which is located near the MWRD's Calumet Water Reclamation Plant on Chicago's southside.
Adding to the excitement, our very own Second City Sewer Crew took the stage at the Operations Challenge, competing in the top division for the first time. Facing off against highly skilled teams from across the country in front of watchful judges, they secured second place in the Process Control event—a testament to their knowledge, skill, and teamwork.
For the first time, the MWRD hosted a booth on the exhibition floor that highlighted the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP). From technical achievements to community engagement, this year’s WEFTEC showcased not only the strength of the water sector but also the leadership and innovation of the MWRD.
WEFTEC Award winners
Congratulations to MWRD Commissioner Sharon Waller for receiving accolades as a founding member of the Illinois Chapter of the Water Reuse Association where she was elected to serve as secretary in addition to receiving a WEF Volunteer Service award.
Congratulations also go to MWRD Managing Civil Engineer Lou Storino (center) for his induction as a WEF Fellow. The WEF Fellows program recognizes the professional achievement, stature and contributions of WEF members to the preservation and enhancement of the global water environment.
125th Anniversary of Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal celebrated
The MWRD, Friends of the Chicago River, U.S. Rep. Bill Foster (IL-11), Chicago Park District Superintendent and CEO Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, Village of Lemont Mayor John Egofske, Village of Summit President Sergio Rodriguez and an esteemed group of civic leaders marked the 125th anniversary of the opening of the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal and unveiled the Redefining Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal campaign during a news conference held at Richard J. Daley Park on Chicago’s Southwest Side on October 24. Officials honored the canal's pivotal role in protecting public health, as well as driving the region’s economy and its growing ecological and cultural importance while acknowledging the impact 19th century canal development had on Native Americans. Considered an engineering marvel that reversed the flow of the Chicago River and transformed the city’s destiny, water from the Chicago River officially flowed into the canal for the first time in January 1900. Watch the news conference.
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton hosts Rivers of Illinois Coordinating Council meeting at Stickney WRP
On October 7, Illinois Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton hosted the Rivers of Illinois Coordinating Council meeting at our Stickney WRP with participants joining both in person and virtually. they were joined by MWRD Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis and Acting Executive Director John P. Murray Following the meeting, attendees toured the facility.
"How Does Wastewater Treatment Actually Work?" Encyclopedia Britannica
"The 125-year-old Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal reversed the Chicago River, now it needs to shed that image," WTTW
WTTW: Patti Wetli - It’s been 125 years since the Chicago River was famously reversed by creating the 28-mile Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, which carried sewage away from Lake Michigan — the city’s source of drinking water — and sent it downstream.
This impressive feat of engineering not only safeguarded Chicagoans’ public health but it also transformed the city economically, opening up new opportunities for commerce via a connection to the Mississippi River.
“When I talk to the mayors up and down that corridor, they said, ‘It’s really hard to get developers to come in and make their development anywhere near the ‘sanitary canal,’” U.S. Rep. Bill Foster (D-11th) said at a celebration held Friday to mark the canal’s historic anniversary.
It’s the word “sanitary” that’s the sticking point, and all of the outdated assumptions associated with it, Foster said.
So a push is underway to rename the canal to perhaps something less, frankly, sewage-adjacent. The movement has the backing of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, Friends of the Chicago River, the Chicago Park District, Cook County government and municipalities located along the channel.
“Now is the time to re-envision, reimagine and redefine what the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal can be for the next 125 years,” said Sergio Rodriguez, mayor of Summit.
Without further ado, here are the six names being considered for the canal, including the option to keep it as is:
- Chicago-Lockport Canal
- Chicago Portage Canal
- Chicago Shipping Canal
- Illinois Prairie Canal
- Southwest Canal
- Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal
Voting is open to the public through Nov. 7 and the winner will be announced Nov. 24. It would then be submitted to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names for approval.
Changing the name, proponents said, is more than just window dressing. Real environmental progress has been made, not only in terms of wastewater treatment by MWRD, but in the health of habitat along the canal.
Resources
MWRD unveils new “Flood Response Resource Guide”
The MWRD has released the first edition of the new “What to Do and Where to Get Help: Flood Response Resource Guide.”
The 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 communities recover more quickly. This new tool is designed to make it easier for residents to find reliable information when they need it most. The guide can be found at mwrd.org.
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.
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
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
Winter is coming - Remember to be salt smart
As the Chicago area braces for wintry conditions, residents and businesses will look to road salt to provide a stable, safer path along sidewalks, walkways, and streets.
The MWRD advocates for a prudent approach to the management of road salt.
Road salt can provide safety, but it also has unwanted ramifications for the local water environment. Rock salt (sodium chloride) and salt runoff can be harmful to pets, bodies of water and soil along roadways and sidewalks. In addition, excessive road salt can impact vegetation, as well as contaminate groundwater and drinking water.
According to the Salt Smart Collaborative, chloride levels in northeastern Illinois rivers, lakes and wetlands have been on the rise for decades. The challenge with protecting Lake Michigan and the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS) is that road salt use increases with urban development, and the more development, the more miles of roads and walkways that need winter deicing. All that salt eventually makes its way to area waterways, and MWRD water reclamation plants cannot always filter it out before releasing it as clean water into the CAWS.
Follow these guidelines to protect the environment:
1. Shovel first. Salt should only be used after the snow is removed and only in areas needed for safety.
2. Size up. More salt does not mean more melting. A 12-ounce coffee mug of salt should be enough for a 20-foot driveway or 10 sidewalk squares (250 square feet).
3. Spread. Distribute salt evenly, not in clumps. Clumped salt is wasted salt.
4. Sweep. If there is leftover salt on the ground after the ice melts, then too much salt was used. Sweep up leftover salt to keep it out of local rivers and streams.
5. Switch. Untreated salt stops working if the temperature is below 15 degrees. When temperatures drop that low, switch to sand for traction or choose a different deicer formulated for colder temperatures.
Tips to prepare your home for excess rainwater
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.
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.
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
Freight sheds for the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railway located along the South Branch of the Chicago River on April 27, 1904.
November 2025 Calendar
The sun rises over the Calumet River near the MWRD's Sidestream Elevated Pool Aeration (SEPA) station #1 with the Torrence Avenue bridge in the background.
