Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago | MWRD Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Recovering Resources, Transforming Water Strategic Plan Protecting Our Water Environment Established in 1889, the MWRD is an award-winning, special purpose government agency responsible for treating wastewater and managing stormwater in Cook County, Illinois. We strive to be a responsive neighbor that engages with the public on several critical water-related issues that improve the quality of life for all. Stormwater Partnerships Local governments and public agencies can apply for funding to build or design stormwater projects. Blue Island Public Library Green Roof The Blue Island Public Library green roof, an MWRD Green Infrastructure Partnership Program project, captures stormwater to reduce the risk of flooding and sewer backups in the Blue Island community. Procurement and Materials Management The Procurement and Materials Management Department issues many contracts during the year to purchase a wide range of materials, services and equipment for the MWRD. Overflow Action You can help reduce basement backups and flooding by conserving water before, during and after rainstorms. Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) reservoir levels Tunnel and Reservoir Plan, also known as TARP or “The Deep Tunnel,” is a system of deep, large diameter tunnels and vast reservoirs. TARP is designed to reduce flooding, improve water quality in Chicago area waterways and protect Lake Michigan from pollution caused by sewer overflows See water levels at the three TARP reservoirs Join our team! We are accepting applications now for a wide range of job categories. Find out more You can help prevent flooding and protect water quality! Native Landscaping Native landscaping can help reduce flooding, protect water quality and provide habitat for wildlife. Rain Barrels We have rain barrels for sale for a low price, delivery included. Rain barrels capture rainwater from your roof and save it for later use. Green Infrastructure Capturing stormwater where it falls through natural systems and permeable surfaces. Medication Disposal When not disposed of properly, pharmaceuticals can end up in waterways. You can help keep pharmaceuticals from entering our waterways by disposing of unwanted medicine properly at the locations listed on this page. Videos Join Our Team Blue Island Public Library Green Roof Where Does IT Go? Virtual Tour Recent News Releases "Chicago-area residents asked to limit water use amid severe storms, flood risk," NBC Chicago April 17, 2026 Residents are asked to delay showers and baths, flush toilets less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine. "Specially designed playground in West Pullman acts as sponge to reduce flooding," CBS News April 17, 2026 The 41 Space to Grow playgrounds across the city, all with underground chamber systems acting as sponges, gradually release water into the ground, collectively capturing up to 8.7 million gallons of water every time it rains. MWRD Issues Overflow Action Alert April 17, 2026 Reduce your use of water before, during and after rainstorms to reduce the amount of water in your municipal sewers. "EPA Wants Companies to Reuse Water to Cool Data Centers," The Wall Street Journal April 16, 2026 The EPA on Thursday announced an initiative to help reuse water, partly in an effort to assist data centers that need to lower the temperatures of the electrical equipment that powers AI. View all news Projects Harvey Central Park Stormwater Detention Basin | MWRD The MWRD's Harvey Central Park Stormwater Detention Basin project will provide flood relief for the city of Harvey. This project will reduce flooding to approximately 209 homes during a 100-year storm event. Addison Creek Reservoir and Channel Improvements | MWRD The 600-acre-foot Addison Creek Reservoir will hold 195 million gallons of storage capacity and connect with the Addison Creek Channel to protect the communities from overbank flooding. Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project | MWRD The MWRD’s Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project will help address overbank flooding through a new stormwater park and pond, along with improvements to Midlothian Creek and an overflow channel that connects to the Cal-Sag Channel. Mount Prospect Stormwater Projects | MWRD The MWRD worked with the village of Mount Prospect to transform two beautiful park spaces that can now accommodate more stormwater and protect the community from flooding, while also giving the residents a place to gather and play. View more projects Calendar of Events Apr 24 Monitoring and Research Seminar 10:30am - 11:30am Friday, April 24, 2026 Virtual Apr 25 Forest Preserves of Cook County Trash Bash 9:00am - 12:00pm Saturday, April 25, 2026 Dan Ryan Woods, 87th and Western, Chicago, IL 60620 Apr 25 National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day 10:00am - 2:00pm Saturday, April 25, 2026 100 E. Erie St., Chicago, IL 60611 Apr 25 NAACP Green Living Summit 10:00am - 2:00pm Saturday, April 25, 2026 100 N. Central Park Ave. , Chicago, IL 60624 View all events Join Our Community Follow us on social media for historical photos and a firsthand view of our work to reduce flooding and protect water quality. Stay Informed Sign Up for our email list Keep up to date with the latest news and resources related to the MWRD. Read our monthly newsletter