In a year of great uncertainty and upheaval, the Water Survey’s experienced, dedicated staff continued to deliver on our core mission: advancing water, weather, and climate science.Our scientific research and service programs continue to address critical issues related to the quality, quantity, and use of ground, surface, and atmospheric water resources. Our scientists collect vital weather and soil data, assess flood risk and other hazards, investigate the impact of climate change, study water supply and safety, and do much more to support Illinois’ understanding and management of our critical water resources.

Over the past year our scientists have also considered how to build on the Water Survey’s legacy of more than 125 years of service to the State of Illinois. How should we diversify our scientific efforts, and what should our research focus areas be in 2021 and beyond? The research and service highlights presented in this publication reflect those discussions, demonstrating our expertise at the nexus of water resources and sustainable energy innovation, in public health and community resiliency, with climate research and long-range data, and in hydrology and watershed monitoring. 

Download the Water Survey's 2021 Research Report