The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) can help local government organizations pay for the construction of green infrastructure (GI) on public property in Cook County. Green infrastructure is designed to manage stormwater by mimicking nature. It captures and stores water where it falls, allowing stormwater to infiltrate into the ground before entering the sewer system. This reduces the amount of water flowing through sewers systems that are often overwhelmed by intense rain events. It is a method of reducing stormwater runoff and improving the water quality of our rivers and streams. Every year, the MWRD reviews applications and selects projects for partnerships. The selected partner is responsible for their project's design, contract advertisement and award, acquiring any necessary property rights, construction, and long-term maintenance. Public entities that can enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the MWRD include municipalities, townships, county agencies, park districts, school districts, and other government organizations. Award amounts range from $600,000-$1,200,000. Eligible projects include permeable pavement, rain gardens, green roofs and construction of green infrastructure. Application due 12/31/2025. More info here: https://mwrd.org/stormwater/gipp  

The 40th Annual Conference of the Illinois Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management (IAFSM) is a forum for professionals to share knowledge and experience on related topics. The conference features presentations, training sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals across the state.  Our event in 2026 will be held in Champaign, IL at the iHotel & Illinois Conference Center, March 11 - 12th, 2026. Registration available

Under the program, organizations and individuals may apply for reimbursement of up to 25 percent of costs for projects that improve water quality. Since the grant program began in 2000, DuPage County has awarded approximately $6.9 million to 120 projects, such as permeable paver parking lots, green roofs, and native vegetation, with $300,000 awarded annually. Deadline January 2, 2026. Application and details HERE

The Environmental & Water Resources Institute (EWRI) - Chicago Chapter is proud to present the Chicagoland Water Resources Permitting Seminar. This seminar will provide valuable information relating to current and future stormwater permitting/ordinance requirements for some of the most frequented agencies in the Chicagoland area. For 40 minutes, each agency will present and take questions on their most relevant permitting information. 6 PDHs will be available. Continental breakfast and a hot lunch will be served.

Agencies scheduled to present include:

• DuPage County Stormwater Commission
• Illinois Department of Transportation
• Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
• Lake County Stormwater Management Commission
• US Army Corps of Engineers
• McHenry County
• City of Chicago Department of Water Management
• Illinois Department of Natural Resources – Office of Water Resources

Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Time: 7:30am doors open; 8:00am presentations start;  4:30pm end

Place: Northern Illinois University Naperville Campus – Conference Center, 1120 E Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563

Register: Here

Cost:

$170 Early Bird

$200 After 10/24

Sponsorships Available! Email Gary Gifford at ggifford@hwlochner.com to inquire

Exploring compliance in our modern age which is rooted in years of progress and ingenuity. More Info