MWRD FLOW - October 2024
In this edition:
Upcoming Events
MWRD Board of Commissioners October meetings
Thursday, October 3 and 17, 10:30 a.m.
The MWRD Board of Commissioners will hold its Regular Board Meeting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 3 and Thursday, October 17.
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.
MWRD and Hire360 to host Latinx Opportunity Reception on October 10
In celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, the MWRD will co-host an opportunity reception with HIRE360 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 10 at the HIRE360 Training facility, 2540 S. State, Chicago.
This event will demonstrate the shared commitment to training, supporting, and developing a diverse and skilled workforce that meets the needs of the agency and addresses the growing career opportunities in the water sector.
Led by MWRD Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia and MWRD Commissioner Eira Corral Sepúlveda, this event will include a tour of HIRE360’s new state-of-the-art training facility, discussion on workforce development, hear from HIRE360 trainers and trainees from their various programs, and conclude with a networking hour. We invite vendors, contractors, union organizations, and potential candidates to this unique opportunity to network and build their professional relationships.
Monthly Virtual Tour set for Tuesday, October 15 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 the MWRD as a forward-thinking utility for the future. Make this an afternoon of exploration, innovation and environmental wonders.
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.
Monitoring and Research Monthly Seminar set for Friday, October 25 at 10:30 a.m.
“Sludge Densification Full-Scale Study at Metro Water Recovery in Denver, CO."
On Friday, October 25 at 10:30 a.m., Rudy Maltos, Ph.D., P.E., Staff Engineer, Technology and Innovation Division, Metro Water Recovery, Denver, CO, will present “Sludge Densification Full-Scale Study at Metro Water Recovery in Denver, CO."
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 25 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.
Sign up for the MWRD's 12th Annual Sustainability Summit October 29 at the 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. Members of the new Stickney WRP Community Partnership Council, which consists of local residents dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Stickney/Cicero area, will be introduced, and awards that highlight the best examples of innovations in green infrastructure and sustainable landscaping practices will be presented.
Save the date! MWRD, City of Calumet City to celebrate completion of green alleys on November 14
The MWRD and City of Calumet City will celebrate the completion of four new green alleys that were funded through MWRD's Green Infrastructure Partnership Program. The ribbon cutting will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 14, 2024. More details coming soon.
Latest News
MWRD President Kari K. Steele addresses City Club
MWRD President Kari K. Steele addressed the City Club of Chicago on September 12 to highlight the MWRD's ongoing initiatives in water management, flood mitigation, and environmental sustainability. She emphasized the importance of infrastructure improvements, partnerships with local governments, and community engagement in addressing the region's stormwater challenges. President Steele also explained MWRD's role in promoting environmental justice, enhancing water quality in the Chicago River, and supporting sustainability efforts across Cook County. Her remarks reflected MWRD's commitment to safeguarding public health and the environment for future generations.
MWRD hosts Diverse Business Summit to strengthen business partnerships
The MWRD reinforced its commitment to educating businesses on how to work with the MWRD by hosting its annual Diverse Business Summit at Malcolm X College in Chicago on September 6. This free event highlighted the vital collaboration needed to safeguard our water resources, bringing together diverse businesses and industry leaders to foster partnerships and innovation.
MWRD leadership and staff emphasized the importance of working collectively with the business community to ensure the sustainability of the region's water systems, showcasing opportunities for diverse businesses to play a pivotal role in this critical mission.
Promoting inclusion, representation and opportunity, this event encouraged entrepreneurs, professionals, industry experts and area leaders to learn more about contract and certification opportunities with the MWRD.
MWRD President Kari K. Steele welcomes federal leaders for tour
MWRD President Kari K. Steele welcomed high-level officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth’s office for a tour of critical water reclamation facilities and stormwater management projects. The visit showcased the MWRD’s essential work in protecting regional water quality and mitigating flooding throughout Cook County.
Applications now being accepted for MWRD stormwater management partnership projects
Community leaders with projects in mind that can enhance public spaces and improve stormwater management infrastructure are urged to apply to the MWRD.
Applications are being accepted through early 2025 for a range of stormwater management projects that includes green infrastructure installations, flood-prone property acquisitions, and larger stormwater management projects that are both conceptual and shovel ready.
Read more about the program.
The MWRD partnerships cover a variety of stormwater management strategies and technical assistance opportunities through the following programs:
- Stormwater Partnership Program helps fund the construction of traditional engineering solutions to flooding such as detention basins, storm sewer improvements, and stream channel improvements.
- Green Infrastructure Partnership Program helps fund the construction of green alleys, rain gardens, permeable paving, and other natural, permeable systems that manage rainwater where it falls.
- Conceptual Project Partnerships are available to local government organizations requiring assistance developing stormwater solutions, coordinating stormwater mitigation efforts, and identifying state and federal grant opportunities.
- Voluntary Flood-Prone Property Acquisition Program provides funding to help municipalities acquire properties in the flood plain and give homeowners the opportunity for a fresh start.
In the last decade, since receiving authority to partner on local projects, the MWRD has approximately 250 active or completed stormwater management projects throughout Cook County working to protect nearly 19,000 homes, businesses and other structures. These partnership projects range from huge flood mitigation reservoirs to smaller scale neighborhood green infrastructure projects. These projects represent an investment of more than $533 million from the MWRD. Read the press release.
MWRD's Climate Action Plan receives international acclaim
The International Water Association Climate Smart Utilities Recognition Programme honored the MWRD for its Climate Action Plan (CAP), placing it among the top three finalists under the Achiever category out of a field of more than 90 water utilities that applied from across the globe.
Formally adopted in 2023, the CAP serves as a guide toward meeting greenhouse gas emission reductions and highlights the MWRD’s ongoing work to adapt to the effects of climate change, increased rainfall and challenges in managing wastewater and stormwater. View the plan.
The 2024 recognition program raises awareness for the ambitious and innovative steps that water and wastewater utilities are taking to respond to climate change. These utilities are leading the way in lowering carbon emissions and embracing the shift needed to adapt to and mitigate climate change,
Field Day addresses nutrient stewardship via collaboration with Smits Farm in Chicago Heights
Cook County is not known for a glut of farms, and neither is the MWRD famous for producing crops, but together this unlikely pairing is collaborating to improve water quality locally and as far away as the Gulf of Mexico.
Farmers and soil scientists with the MWRD joined the Illinois Farm Bureau, Cook County Farm Bureau and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) for a Nutrient Stewardship Field Day at Smits Farm in Chicago Heights on Aug. 28. Instead of holding this annual summer field day at the usual location in downstate Fulton County, organizers of the event decided this year to turn their attention toward local farmers in Cook County, where like across the state, new nutrient reduction strategies are being implemented.
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 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.
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 and urban areas, impacting our travel when roads are flooded and damaging our homes and businesses.
While there are myriad ways to be a Green Neighbor—some actions can be as simple as not over-fertilizing your lawn and garden 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)?
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 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.
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
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 a group tour.
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
Excavation for construction of the O’Brien Water Reclamation Plant on September 27, 1923, in Skokie. Originally known as North Side, the facility began operation in 1928 and currently serves more than 1.3 million people residing in a 143-square-mile area.
