If you live in the state of Illinois, odds are you’ve been impacted by Illinois water research. Scientists at the Prairie Research Institute work to provide data, services and expertise to help Illinois citizens and policymakers.
Explore some of the ways their research is keeping residents, lakefronts and communities safe.
Storm water
Heavy rainstorms put stress on municipal drainage systems designed from outdated standards, often resulting in flooding and financial losses. Researchers at the Illinois State Water Survey have recently applied newer data to update state standards for extreme storms. With their findings, engineers are able to design higher functioning sewers and culverts to withstand severe weather.
Lake Michigan
Scientists from the Illinois State Geological Survey are studying ways to better understand the Lake Michigan coast in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This includes assessing Lake Michigan shoreline erosion, protection, and redevelopment strategies. Additionally, their research extends to sedimentation, beach replenishment and nearshore lake bottom paving to improve the natural areas.
Well safety
The Illinois State Water Survey helps rural water operators and private well owners to ensure their drinking water is safe. Researchers provide training and resources to boost the knowledge and competency for well owners and environmental health, cooperative extension, and water well professionals. ISWS manages an easy-to use database that provides well owners with more than 11,000 training events and 18,000+ free resources.
To learn more about the Prarie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, visit their website to explore more projects.
