The critical facilities operated by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) to transform copious amounts of wastewater and stormwater runoff into clean water have again earned national praise.

The National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) has recognized the MWRD with six Platinum 5 Peak Performance Awards for meeting at least five consecutive years of 100 percent compliance in meeting National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. 

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our staff, who work every day to meet rigorous standards and ensure clean water is safely returned to the environment,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “On an average day, our water reclamation plants treat more than one billion gallons of wastewater, and receiving these awards reflects our commitment to protecting both public health and our natural waterways.”

Despite emerging contaminants, pollutants, aging infrastructure and the unpredictable and often turbulent flow of water entering the MWRD water reclamation plants, the MWRD continues to meet increasingly stringent permits to ensure what leaves the facility is clean water that meets the highest national standards. These essential facilities are not only recovering water, but valuable resources like nutrients, energy and solids that are later dried and converted into biosolids that are used as soil amendments to sustainably cultivate plant life. 

“The NACWA Platinum Peak Awards shine light on the important work taking place at our water reclamation plants and assures our residents, business owners and everyone who enjoys our waterways that we are meeting the highest standards in water quality,” said MWRD Commissioner Beth McElroy Kirkwood. “Thank you to our hard-working and innovative staff for managing this flow at all hours of the day.”

As a Platinum 5 Peak Performance honoree, the MWRD will be recognized with a formal presentation of its award during a ceremony on July 15 at NACWA’s Utility Leadership Conference and 56th Annual Meeting in Cleveland, Ohio.

The MWRD’s Lemont Water Reclamation Plant has the longest record of 100 percent compliance. For 29 years, the Lemont facility has maintained a flawless track record, while treating an average of 2.3 million gallons per day for 20,000 residents.

The following facilities have earned platinum status:

• Stickney Water Reclamation Plant – Platinum 6

• John E. Egan Water Reclamation Plant - Platinum 12

• Hanover Park Water Reclamation Plant - Platinum 18

• Terrence J. O'Brien Water Reclamation Plant - Platinum 20

• James C. Kirie Water Reclamation Plant - Platinum 21

• Lemont Water Reclamation Plant - Platinum 29