MWRD FLOW - September 2024
In this edition:
Upcoming Events
MWRD Board of Commissioners September meetings
Thursday, September 5 and 19, 10:30 a.m.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners will hold its Regular Board Meeting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 5 and Thursday, September 19.
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.
Save the date: MWRD's Diverse Business Summit set for September 6
Date: Friday, September 6, 2024
Time: 8 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Malcolm X College, 1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL
Talented entrepreneurs, emerging businesses and veterans will have the unique opportunity to network with established firms and government agencies at the MWRD's Diverse Business Summit set for Friday, September 6 from 8 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Malcolm X College, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago. This event offers potential vendors a valuable opportunity to learn about the MWRD, its contracts, and certification benefits. Attendees will also have the chance to meet with other contractors and government partner agencies.
Panel Discussions: Engage with industry experts and learn about current trends and opportunities in the water reclamation and stormwater management sectors.
One-on-One Meetings: MWRD department heads will be available for personalized meetings to discuss potential business opportunities.
Match-Making Session: Connect with MWRD personnel and key contractors to explore partnership possibilities.
Monthly Virtual Tour set for Tuesday, September 17 at 2 p.m.
Embark on a captivating virtual tour with the MWRD.
Immerse yourself in the depths of the world's largest water reclamation facility, venture through the intricate Deep Tunnel system, encounter the enchanting dancing water bear, and witness the fascinating process of electrofishing in action. Delve into the rich history that defines us and discover the compelling stories that position us as a forward-thinking utility for the future. Make this an afternoon of exploration, innovation and environmental wonders.
Monitoring and Research Monthly Seminar rescheduled for Friday, October 11 at 1:30 p.m.
“Roadmap for Achieving Energy Management Vision and Goals: South Platte Renew Improves Energy Efficiency While Addressing Regulatory Challenges and Aging Infrastructure in Colorado.”
On Friday, October 11 at 1:30 p.m., Elizabeth W. Keddy, PE, LEED AP, Senior Associate, Hazen and Sawyer, Tampa, Florida will present “Roadmap for Achieving Energy Management Vision and Goals: South Platte Renew Improves Energy Efficiency While Addressing Regulatory Challenges and Aging Infrastructure in Colorado.”
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 October 11 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.
Save the date: MWRD and Hire360 to host a LatinX Business
Reception on October 10
In celebration of LatinX Heritage Month, the MWRD will co-host a reception with HIRE360 on Thursday, October 10, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the HIRE360 Training facility, 2540 S. State, Chicago.
Our shared commitment to training, supporting, and developing a diverse and skilled workforce will be demonstrated, addressing the growing career opportunities in the water sector.
This event will also include a tour of HIRE360’s new state-of-the-art training facility, discussion on workforce development, insight from HIRE360 trainers and trainees, and conclude with a networking hour with MWRD partner agencies, vendors, and union organizations.
Save the Date: Latinx Stewardship Day, October 19 at 10 a.m.
Join the MWRD for our 4th Annual Latinx Stewardship Day at Possom Hollow Woods
The fourth annual Latinx Stewardship Day, a joint initiative by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and the Forest Preserves of Cook County, will take place on Saturday, October 19, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Possum Hollow Woods in La Grange Park.
Volunteers will participate in a series of activities that include the identification and mitigation of invasive species threatening the local ecosystem. Participants will gain valuable insight into sustainable gardening practices aimed at creating a healthier environment. They will also be removing invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle for a prescribed burn.
Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate together out in nature. Space is limited.
Save the date: 12th Annual Sustainability Summit set
for October 29 at Stickney WRP
The MWRD’s 12th Annual Sustainability Summit is set for Tuesday, October 29 at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant from 10 a.m. to noon and is open to the public. Presenters will provide information about green infrastructure and sustainable landscaping techniques to mitigate flooding and enhance water quality. The event will also introduce the members of the Stickney WRP Community Partnership Council, which consists of local residents dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Stickney/Cicero area.
The MWRD will also recognize projects from across Cook County that speak to the MWRD’s mission in flood control and water quality improvements. The awards also spotlight the best examples of innovations in green infrastructure and sustainable landscaping practices.
MWRD seeks applicants for Sustainable Landscaping awards; Applications due September 30
The MWRD is accepting applications from Cook County individuals and organizations for its 2024 Sustainable Landscaping Awards until September 30. The awards recognize the activities and innovations from entities such as cities and villages, schools, houses of worship, businesses and others. Qualifications for the Sustainable Landscaping award may be demonstrated through the innovative use of green infrastructure, capital investment (private and public), and public education.
Green infrastructure (GI) includes:
Award categories include:
- Excellence in promoting Green Infrastructure to local residents
- Excellence in Green Infrastructure Partnership Program Maintenance
- Excellence in new Green Infrastructure installation
Awards will be presented at the MWRD’s 12th annual Sustainability Summit to be held at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant Auditorium, 6001 W. Pershing Ave., Cicero, IL, on October 29 from 10 a.m. – noon. Register for the Summit.
Latest News
Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain reopens to public
After completing extensive renovations, MWRD commissioners were joined by city leaders to reopen the Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain on Aug. 16 to again captivate onlookers to the fountain and its cannon spraying an arc across the main stem of the Chicago River. Watch the ceremony.
Built in 1989, the fountain commemorates the 100th anniversary of the MWRD and symbolizes a century of dedication and progress.
In addition to members of the MWRD Board of Commissioners, President Kari K. Steele welcomed 2nd Ward Ald. Brian Hopkins, 27th Ward Ald. Walter Burnett, Jr., 42nd Ward Ald. Brendan Reilly, Chicago Department of Water Management Commissioner Randy Conner, Elizabeth Melas, the daughter of former MWRD Board president for whom the fountain is named, and architect Dirk Lohan.
During summer months, a canon sends an 80-foot water arc across the river.
The pandemic and supply chain issues complicated the refurbishment of the fountain, but it has now been restored to its former glory.
MWRD welcomes delegation from Dubai Municipality to Stickney Water Reclamation Plant
On August 9, President Kari K. Steele, Vice President Theresa Flynn, and Commissioner Dan Pogorzelski welcomed a delegation from Dubai to the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant.
The visit provided an opportunity to showcase our cutting-edge water management practices. Much like Chicago, Dubai is facing the challenges of climate change, with more intense rainfall increasing the risk of flooding. Together, we're exploring solutions for a more resilient future.
Resources
Sign up for Overflow Action Alert text messages
Sign up to receive Overflow Action Alert text messages year round. 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 career or looking for a new job?
If so, please 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.
Purchase MWRD Rain Barrels
Read our “Green Neighbor Guide”
Water is one of the most valuable resources on our planet. We require clean and fresh water for drinking, cleaning, recreation and other activities. However, too much of it can become a nuisance when it causes flooding in waterways and urban areas.
While there are myriad ways to be a Green Neighbor—some actions can be as simple as not over-fertilizing your lawn and garden, washing and maintaining your vehicles properly, or planting a native tree—our Green Neighbor Guide focuses on stormwater management projects that you can build or install on your property.
The guide provides detailed instructions 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.
What is the key to pollution prevention when it comes to are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)?
The key to pollution prevention is addressing the source of 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 countless commercial, consumer, and industrial products and are acknowledged by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be widely present in 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.
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 use of nonstick cookware, cosmetics and sunscreens, washing clothes, and putting out fires with certain foams can all introduce PFAS into the environment.
The MWRD is closely following and proceeding based on the developing science on the potential impacts of PFAS. The key to pollution prevention is addressing the source of PFAS. The MWRD is 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.
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Opportunity
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
Doing Business with the MWRD
The MWRD procures materials and services required for operations in compliance with the 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 performance of the MWRD’s construction program and professional service contracts over $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, illegal or suspicious dumping to waterways or sewers, or odors.
Call 800-332-DUMP (3867) or in Spanish 855-323-4801
Tour an MWRD facility
If you live within our service area, the water that goes down your toilet, sinks and drains eventually comes to us to be cleaned. Nearly 500 billion gallons of wastewater is treated by our seven water reclamation plants every year. The MWRD's total wastewater treatment capacity is over 2.0 billion gallons per day. Learn more about the work of the MWRD on our YouTube channel or schedule a group tour and/or visit us virtually.
Schedule a speaker
MWRD staff are eager to share information about our work and to provide residents of all ages with information and resources they can use to help reduce flooding and improve water quality.
We offer in-person and virtual presentations about our work and areas of responsibility. Our presentations include 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
- The Tunnel and Reservoir Plan, also known as the Deep Tunnel
- How wastewater treatment works
- Recovering resources from wastewater
- Stormwater management flood control
- Green infrastructure
- What you can do to protect water quality and reduce flooding
Contact us to schedule a speaker for your group or class. Please submit requests 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
View looking west towards the Monroe Street Bridge over South Branch of the Chicago River on April 25, 1919.
