Public invited to visit MWRD’s Calumet Water Reclamation Plant for open house and tours on Saturday as part of Chicago Water Week

WHO: Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)

WHAT: The MWRD will host an open house as part of Chicago Water Week to welcome visitors of all ages for a behind-the-scenes look at how the MWRD transforms water and protects the region's environment.

WHERE: Calumet Water Reclamation Plant, 400 E. 130th St., Chicago, Ill.

WHEN: Saturday, May 10, 2025, at noon - 3 p.m.

Chicago Water Week has arrived, and the public can learn about the region's water cycle by following the flush to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago's (MWRD's) Calumet Water Reclamation Plant. Visitors will see how wastewater is transformed and returned to the environment as clean water in a matter of hours.

Guests of all ages are invited to take an abbreviated tour of the plant, meet with MWRD staff for interactive activities and take home free oak tree sapling, milkweed and native wildflower seeds to support stormwater management and the lifecycle of the monarch butterfly and other pollinators. Guests can also drop off unwanted medicine as part of the MWRD's collection campaign to keep pharmaceuticals out of area water resources.

Visitors are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and suitable attire for an industrial environment. If guests like what they see on these tours, they are welcome to schedule a full in-person tour or register for a virtual tour. For more information, visit mwrd.org or call (312) 751-6633.

Chicago Water Week is coordinated through Current, which is working to grow a circular blue economy, accelerate innovation and solve pressing water challenges. A week-long series of water-focused events are held throughout the Chicago area allowing the public to learn about the essential role water plays in the environment, communities and economy, as well as the impact of the climate crisis on our region's water resources. Visitors to Chicago Water Week events can engage with water stewards, network and build connections with other water advocates and experts. For more information, visit currentwater.org/chicago-water-week.