This was the third of three open houses the MWRD hosted this May at its water reclamation plants, giving all ages of visitors a tour, presentations and activities that educated them on the wide variety of innovation and sustainable practices used to protect and improve area water resources.

Following a Pride Flag raising and ceremony at its McGowan Main Office building and seven water reclamation plants in observance of Pride Month, the MWRD held a program that highlighted the role of resilience and unity.

Located on the north bank of the Chicago River at McClurg Court, the fountain was originally constructed in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the MWRD’s establishment.

Board meetings are open to the public and can be streamed online.

Board meetings are open to the public and can be streamed online.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago will commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial by implementing a special tree planting initiative that honors the nation’s 250th anniversary while advancing the MWRD’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The MWRD will raise the Juneteenth flag to honor and recognize Freedom Day on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 10 a.m.

Showcasing its leadership in advancing stormwater solutions and public education, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) has earned the prestigious Grand Prize from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES). The award, presented in the Environmental Communications Awards category, recognizes the MWRD’s standout publication, “Green Infrastructure Community Guide: Stormwater Strategies for Resilient Neighborhoods.”

The MWRD will raise the Pride flag and host a noon program at the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building. The flag will also be raised at all seven water reclamation plants.

Guests took home free oak tree saplings, milkweed and native wildflower seeds to support stormwater management and the lifecycle of the monarch butterfly and other pollinators.