The MWRD works daily to reduce flooding and protect water quality—and your actions make a difference too.

Why Flooding Happens

Our region was once marshland with slow-moving rivers—naturally flood-prone. With over 5 million people now living here, heavy rain can quickly overwhelm sewers, causing basement backups and street flooding.

Everyday Ways to Help

🌧️ Disconnect Your Downspouts

Keep rainwater out of the sewers by disconnecting downspouts and directing the flow onto your yard—not your neighbor’s.

📲 Sign Up for Overflow Action Alerts

Using less water during rainstorms leaves more room in the sewers for stormwater. Get alerts from our partners at Friends of the Chicago River.

💧 Install a Rain Barrel

Capture rainwater for reuse and reduce runoff with rain barrels. MWRD offers affordable barrels—with delivery included.

🌱 Plant Native Plants & Rain Gardens

Native plants and rain gardens absorb more water than grass, prevent erosion, and support pollinators like monarchs. Pledge to plant native wildflowers and get free milkweed seeds!

🧱 Use Permeable Pavement

Replace concrete with water-absorbing surfaces to reduce runoff from driveways, patios, and walkways.

🌳 Plant a Tree

One oak tree can soak up 2,800 gallons of rain annually. Help Restore the Canopy by planting a free native oak sapling.

🧂 Use Road Salt Sparingly

Use only what’s needed to stay safe in winter. Excess salt harms waterways and wildlife.

🚫 Don’t Litter

Trash from streets often ends up in rivers and streams. Keep it out of storm drains.

💊 Dispose of Medications Properly

Never flush meds—they pollute water. Use take-back programs instead.

💩 Pick Up Pet Waste

Rain can wash pet waste into sewers, leading to pollution.

🚽 Only Flush the 3Ps

Only flush pee, poo, and toilet paper. Wipes—even “flushable” ones—cause blockages and backups.

🚿 Use Water Wisely

Small changes help: shorter showers, turning off taps, and only washing full loads.

🚧 Report Issues

• Flooding or sewer backups? Contact your municipality.

• Waterway blockages? Let MWRD know—we depend on your eyes on the ground.