During periods of heavy rainfall or rapid snow melt the region's sewer system can become taxed by the sudden influx of water. At times, this results in untreated wastewater being released into the Chicago River system.
Friends of the Chicago River, a group started in 1979, works to improve the health of all 156 miles of the Chicago River system. This includes educating the public, as well as working to monitor and minimize the amount of water that goes into the sewer system when an overflow is imminent.
So how can you help on an #OverflowActionDay? Simple things like reducing your shower time, turning off a running faucet, and waiting to your laundry or dishes can make a big difference in alleviating the amount of water added to the sewers. For more tips, or the sign the Overflow Action Days pledge, visit: https://www.chicagoriver.org/get-involved/take-action/overflow-action-days